Nintendo Support

Pokémon Sword or Pokémon Shield Expansion Pass DLC Is Not Appearing

The information in this article can help when you purchased DLC for Pokémon Sword or Pokémon Shield and it is not appearing in the game.

What to do

  • Ensure the console has been updated to the latest system menu version.

  • Make sure that you own the corresponding DLC for the game you own. Pokémon Sword Expansion Pass is only compatible with the Pokémon Sword game and Pokémon Shield Expansion Pass is only compatible with the Pokémon Shield game.

Are you using the physical or digital version of Pokémon Sword/Pokémon Shield?

Physical

  1. Remove the game card, then delete the software data (this will not delete any save data).
    From the software's menu options, select Manage Software and then Delete Software.

  2. Reinsert the game card and download any available software updates for the game.

  3. Open the Nintendo eShop with the User Account that originally purchased the DLC. Redownload the DLC that is missing from the game.
    Select the picture of your icon in the upper-right corner to access your Nintendo eShop account settings, then highlight Redownload. Select the content in the list of previously purchased titles and tap the orange icon to redownload.

  4. Launch the game and go to Wedgehurst Station.
    The content should now be available to play once you've progressed far enough in the game. You will need to be able to reach Wedgehurst Station and have access to the Wild Area.


Digital

  1. Check for any available software updates for the game.

  2. Open the Nintendo eShop with the User Account that originally purchased the DLC. Redownload the DLC that is missing from the game.
    Select the picture of your icon in the upper-right corner to access your Nintendo eShop account settings, then highlight Redownload. Select the content in the list of previously purchased titles and tap the orange icon to redownload.

  3. Launch the game and go to Wedgehurst Station.
    The content should now be available to play once you've progressed far enough in the game. You will need to be able to reach Wedgehurst Station and have access to the Wild Area.

  4. If the issue persists, delete and redownload the software that is not recognizing the DLC. This will not delete any save data.
    From the software's menu options, select Manage Software, and then Delete Software (not Archive Software). Then redownload the game.


Situation not resolved
If the issue persists, please contact us for additional support.