Hung or Stuck on Preparing Screen During First Time Setup on Nintendo Switch 2

Steps for when you're attempting to link or create a Nintendo Account during the first time set up but the console stays on a preparing screen.

Complete these steps

1. Attempt to power off the console.

   • If the console doesn't power off, press and hold the POWER button for 20 seconds to power the console off.

2. Power the console back on, and continue with the setup process. Skip the process of linking a Nintendo Account.

3. Once the setup is complete, update the console to the latest system menu version.

4. After the system is updated, return to the user settings and link your Nintendo Account to your user.

Situation not resolved

If the issue persists, wait a while and attempt to link your Nintendo Account a little later.