When your Nintendo Switch® freezes in the middle of your battle with the secret boss in Pokémon Legends: Arceus®, it's not only frustrating: It could mean game over.
Here at Asurion, when tech breaks, we fix it—whether it's repairing an overheating Switch or getting it to charge. Here's our quick guide to troubleshooting your Nintendo Switch frozen screen so you can get back in the game.
Restart the game
If the console is on but the game is frozen, try quitting the game by pressing the Home button, then open it again from the Home menu. Closing the game will mean any unsaved data within it'll be lost.
It’s not game over—yet
If your console stops working, we’ll handle the repairs. Make an appointment, or visit your nearest store today.
Confirm the Switch is recognizing the controller
If you're using a Joy-Con™ controller, your game might not be the issue. Make sure the controllers are properly connected and paired to the Switch. The best way to test whether the console is frozen is by trying the device in handheld mode. Doing so requires you to remove the console—with the controllers connected—from the dock.
Undock and redock your Switch
When shifting between handheld and TV mode, the Nintendo Switch will sometimes pause. Dock your device for a few minutes, then undock it and see if it'll unfreeze.
Fully charge your device
A frozen Switch could be the result of a low battery. Connect your device to the charger, and allow it to charge for a few hours before trying to start the game again.
Try a power switch reset
If your Nintendo Switch screen is frozen and can't turn off—and your console isn't working at all—you'll have to turn the device off. Here's what to do:
- Press and hold the Power button for 15 seconds to turn off the Switch. Ignore the Power Options screen. While the device is off, check the game card and microSD card slot for dirt or dust. Wipe away dust and dirt with a soft, dry cloth if needed.
- Turn the device back on to test whether the screen is unfrozen.
If you've tried these steps and still need a little help, we're right around the corner. Schedule a repair at the nearest uBreakiFix® by Asurion store and our certified experts can get your device back up and running as soon as the same day.
