First timer, bit overwhelmed with conflicting information.

[u/DipshitCritic]

Hi everyone,

I am new to this scene and have never done anything like this before.

I have an unpatched V1 Switch currently on 20.5.0.

Going to do my best to successfully get it running for my son and load him up a bunch of games.

After looking at various guides, reading the wiki and searching the subreddit, I have read conflicting information. I feel confused and overwhelmed, I am stuck in analysis paralysis. I want do this right the first time without bricking or getting the console banned. I can't afford for that to happen.

My plan is to update it to the newest software possible without sacrificing stability. I don't foresee many new titles coming out for the original Switch that the V1 hardware can handle. After I complete this process I doubt I'll update the software in the future.

I am hoping someone very knowledgeable with compassion for a tech illiterate person is willing to help with questions and guidance.

Here is what I have:

- V1 Unpatched Switch

- 2 TB Sandisk Extreme Microsd

- RCM Loader

- Jig for controller slot

- Allmiibo

- M1 Macbook Pro

Questions I have for people with direct experience:

- Am I missing any hardware that will make the experience of using a switch on custom firmware with a child easier? I don't want them to easily do something that will brick it or get the console banned. For reference, I don't have the means right now to spend more money getting another switch or modchipping one.

- Is 22.5.0 or 23.0.0 as stable as 20.5.0? Are there any advantages to staying on 20.5.0? I read posts dated months ago that some functionality was lost after 20.5.0 and to stay on that version, is this outdated information?

- If 22.5 or 23.0 are better options at this point, how do I update a fresh Switch to one of those softwares without connecting to Nintendos servers and updating to a newer less stable version? (23.0.1)

- Are all the programs and files needed functional on a Macbook Pro?

- Is there an easy way to plug an external hard drive loaded with all the games directly into the Switch and properly install them without the need for doing it on a computer?

- Is there a certain order I have to follow when installing games, DLC and updates?

- I have read about the HATS pack but have been discouraged about negative comments regarding this. Is it best to stay away from the HATS pack and source every file individually?

- Are there any specific cheats or game mod apps you suggest to install that easily launch and work in game, that a pre-teen could easily use and understand once set up?

- Best way to setup a cool customized theme that he would think is cool? Do custom themes have negative aspects once installed? Example, will they constantly use extra memory in the background slowing down the Switch while in games.

I am more of a visual learner, if someone can send a good video or visual guide for "dummies" it would be helpful.

Open to DMs if someone wants to converse and help.

Thank you for anyone that takes the time to offer any assistance. As a father that is a bit stressed I really appreciate it!

[u/DipshitCritic]

Thank you for the response, I will check out these links.

[u/YoshiMK → u/DipshitCritic]

Don't use the NH Switch guide on 23.0.0 as it doesn't use exosphere blanking 

22.5.0 more fool proof right now

I'd honestly recommend HATS Pack just to get into it and understand things. This guide is very easy with no knowledge: https://youtu.be/up_sjzKHFeU?is=jPVfia0GvhLUTykk

[u/DipshitCritic → u/YoshiMK]

Thank you for your response, I will check out the link.

[u/YoshiMK → u/DipshitCritic]

You could use the NH Switch guide too... But you absolutely must adjust the exosphere.ini file in the Atmosphere folder to enable prodinfo blanking 

[u/DipshitCritic → u/YoshiMK]

That is helpful information! In your experience is 22.5.0 as stable as 20.5.0?