Last Updated on January 15, 2026 by writer
Nintendo Switch XCI files are cartridge dump files that represent physical Nintendo Switch game cards in digital form. An XCI file is a 1:1 copy of a retail game cartridge, preserving the original game structure exactly as it exists on the physical card.
In simple terms:
XCI = Digital version of a Nintendo Switch game cartridge
Table of Contents
What Does XCI Stand For?
XCI does not have an official expanded form from Nintendo. In the modding community, it generally refers to:
- Gamecard Image format
- Used to replicate physical Switch cartridges
How XCI Files Work on Nintendo Switch
- XCI files emulate cartridge-based games
- When mounted, the system treats them as if a real game card is inserted
- They are read-only by default, just like physical cartridges
This makes XCI files fundamentally different from installable formats like NSP.
XCI vs NSP: Key Differences
1. Source of the Game
- XCI → Dumped from physical cartridges
- NSP → Dumped from Nintendo eShop downloads
2. Installation Behavior
- XCI → Mounted (acts like a cartridge)
- NSP → Installed to system memory or SD card
3. File Structure
- XCI includes:
- Secure partition
- Normal partition
- Update partition (optional)
- NSP includes:
- NCA files
- Tickets (certificates)
- Metadata
4. Size
- XCI files are often larger
- They include unused cartridge space (padding)
What Is Inside an XCI File?
An XCI file contains multiple partitions:
- Secure partition – Main game data
- Normal partition – Game resources
- Update partition – Firmware updates (sometimes removed)
- Certificate – Unique cartridge identification
These partitions mirror the structure of a real Switch cartridge.
Some Popular XCI ROM Files
Super Mario Galaxy NSP/XCI Switch ROMs
Pokémon Legends: Arceus Switch NSP XCI – Verified Switch ROM Download
Hollow Knight: Silksong NSP, XCI ROM For Nintendo Switch Emulators
Matchbox Driving Adventures Switch NSP/XCI ROM – Switch ROMs Download Guide
Assassin’s Creed III Remastered Switch NSP/XCI ROM Download Guide
Are XCI Files Read-Only?
Yes, by design.
- XCI files behave like physical game cards
- Save data is stored separately on the console or emulator
- The original XCI file remains unchanged during gameplay
Can XCI Files Be Converted to NSP?
Yes.
XCI files can be converted into NSP format by:
- Removing cartridge headers
- Extracting NCA content
- Rebuilding installable packages
This is commonly done to:
- Reduce file size
- Install games directly instead of mounting them
What Are Split XCI Files?
Because some file systems (like FAT32) cannot handle files larger than 4GB:
- Large XCI files are split into parts (e.g.
.xc0,.xc1) - These parts are reassembled or mounted together by compatible tools
XCI Compatibility with Emulators
XCI files are widely supported by Nintendo Switch emulators:
Emulators treat XCI files as inserted cartridges, providing high compatibility with retail games.
Do XCI Files Require Updates or DLC Separately?
Yes.
- Base game → XCI
- Updates → NSP
- DLC → NSP
Updates and DLC are usually installed alongside the XCI file.
Firmware and Key Requirements
To use XCI files, systems typically require:
- Correct prod.keys
- Matching firmware version
- Decryption support for game NCAs
Without proper keys, XCI files cannot be read or launched.
Are XCI Files Region-Locked?
No.
Nintendo Switch games, including XCI files, are:
- Region-free
- Playable on any Switch system or emulator
XCI vs Cartridge Dump Accuracy
XCI files are considered:
- Lossless
- Bit-accurate
- Exact copies of physical cartridges
This makes them ideal for preservation and testing purposes.
Legal Considerations (Important)
- XCI files are legal only if dumped from cartridges you own
- Downloading copyrighted game files you do not own may violate local laws
- Always comply with your country’s copyright regulations
When Should You Use XCI Files?
XCI files are best when you want:
- Cartridge-like behavior
- No installation to internal storage
- Easy mounting and swapping of games
- Accurate retail testing
At Last
- XCI files are digital replicas of physical Switch cartridges
- They are mounted, not installed
- Larger but closer to retail format
- Highly compatible with emulators
- Often paired with NSP updates and DLC
If you’re researching Nintendo Switch game formats, XCI represents the cartridge side, while NSP represents the digital eShop side—together covering the entire Switch ecosystem.