How to Delete Save Data and Applications - Nintendo 3DS Family
In this article, you'll learn how to delete save data or applications.
Important: Deleting a game or application that was downloaded from the Nintendo eShop will also delete the associated save data permanently unless you create a save data backup.
Note
Built-in applications cannot be deleted or removed from the HOME Menu.
This includes: Nintendo eShop, AR Games, Nintendo 3DS Camera, Mii Maker, Nintendo 3DS Sound, Face Raiders, StreetPass Mii Plaza, Activity Log, Download Play, and System Settings.
Once deleted, pre-installed software (e.g. Mario Kart 7, Swapnote) and Nintendo eShop purchases can be redownloaded at no cost.
The save data for retail games is located on the Game Card. See the game's manual for information on deleting save data.
Complete these steps
Nintendo 3DS
From the HOME Menu tap the System Settings icon, then Open.
Tap Data Management.
Tap Nintendo 3DS.
Tap Software to select a game or application.
Or tap Extra Data to select associated save data.
Select the data you would like to delete, then select Delete.
Tap Delete Software and Save Data or Create Save-Data Backup and Delete Software.
If you have selected to back up the save data, you can do so using an existing folder or you can create a new one.
Tap Delete again to confirm.
DSiWare
From the HOME Menu tap the System Settings icon, then Open.
Tap Data Management.
Tap DSiWare.
Tap System Memory to delete data saved to the system memory.
Or tap SD Card to delete data saved to the SD Card.
Select the data you would like to delete.
Tap Delete.
Tap Delete again to confirm.