For a game this large, XCI is often preferred because you can run it directly without “installing” (though you still need the base signature patches). NSP is better if you want to merge the base game, update, and DLC into a single install file.
Most scene releases for Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition bundle the base NSP/XCI with the Update v1.0.3 (which fixes memory leaks) and all six DLC unlockers. borderlands 3 ultimate edition switch nsp xci
This is the most important section. The NSP/XCI file might install fine, but the experience depends on your expectations. For a game this large, XCI is often
Pro tip for CFW users: Install the "60 FPS cheat code" (available via EdiZon). While it doesn't truly hit 60, it uncaps the framerate and stabilizes 30-40 FPS on an overclocked Switch. Without overclocking, that cheat will cause a memory leak. This is the most important section
Even with a clean dump, Borderlands 3 is a complex port. Here are fixes for common errors:
| Error | Likely Fix |
|-------|-------------|
| Error Code 2002-0001 | Corrupted XCI. Re-dump or re-download the base file. |
| Software closed due to error on boot | Update your sigpatches (use Sigpatch-Updater). |
| Missing DLC (skill trees not showing) | The unlocker file is missing. Place a valid 0100B22017A00000 folder in atmosphere/contents. |
| Stuck at Splash screen | Firmware too low. Update to 16.1.0 or higher. |
| No audio in cutscenes | Set Switch system audio to “Stereo” instead of “Surround.” |
| Error Code | Message | Fix |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| 2002-4513 | Corrupted data | Your SD card is likely fake or has bad sectors. Test with h2testw. Also, ensure no split NSP parts are missing. |
| 2123-0011 | Unable to start software | Outdated sigpatches. Reinstall Atmosphere patches or use Tinfoil to install the game directly (it patches on the fly). |
| DLC not showing | Missing skill trees | You need Update v1.0.3 installed before the Season Pass 2 NSP. Order of operations matters. |
| Audio stutter | Crackling sound | Overclock the audio DSP via Sys-clk. Set handheld profile to CPU: 1785MHz, GPU: 768MHz, MEM: 1600MHz. |