Without a doubt, tracking down with Update 132 and the full DLC (The Isle of Armor & Crown Tundra) in a stable NSP or XCI format is the definitive way to experience Gen 8 on PC. It combines a complete, polished story campaign with the ability to play it in stunning 4K resolution at a buttery-smooth 60FPS, all while benefiting from a world of community-created improvements. Whether you're a returning champion or a first-time visitor to the Galar region, this is the ultimate, "better" way to play.
Here is a comprehensive breakdown of why updating your digital backup creates a much better gameplay experience, what the v1.3.2 update changes, and how the DLC transforms Galar. The Core Files: NSP vs. XCI
Version 1.3.2 fixed the notorious "Watt glitch" but significantly buffed the drop rates for Rare Candies, EXP Candies XL, and Ability Patches. If you are farming Dynite Ore, you need 1.3.2.
This is a direct, sector-by-sector dump of a physical Nintendo Switch game cartridge. Think of it as an exact digital copy of the cartridge itself. The primary advantage of an XCI is its "plug-and-play" nature—you can load it directly from your SD card or emulator without needing to install it, mimicking the experience of inserting a physical game card. XCI files are typically larger than their NSP counterparts, as they can contain empty padding data from the original cartridge.
Choosing the right file format depends on how you manage your Switch library. Both formats contain the exact same game data, but they handle installation differently. pokemon shield switch nsp xci dlc update 132 better
Note: Ensure your Sigpatches are updated to match your current Horizon OS firmware, or the game will refuse to launch. Why the Setup is "Better" on Modern Hardware
Now go catch them all—the right way.
A direct dump of the physical cartridge. It is often larger but easier to manage as it can contain the base game and updates in one file.
Calyrex, Glastrier, Spectrier, and new Galarian forms of the Legendary Birds. Without a doubt, tracking down with Update 132
If you’ve been searching for terms like “Pokémon Shield NSP,” “XCI,” “DLC,” or “update 1.3.2,” you’ve likely landed here looking for clarity. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just trying to get the full Galar experience, this post breaks down what these terms mean, what update 1.3.2 actually does, and how all the pieces fit together.
Alex quickly navigated to the Nintendo eShop on his Switch and checked for updates. Sure enough, the version 1.3.2 update was available for download. He eagerly began to install it, his mind racing with possibilities.
The combination of the NSP base for stability, the monumental v1.3.2 update for content and bug fixes, and the two DLC zones (Isle of Armor & Crown Tundra) transforms Pokémon Shield from a decent, linear RPG into a massive, legendary-hunting sandbox.
You must install the DLC NSP files updating to 1.3.2. If you install DLC on v1.2.0 or lower, the in-game train station menu will bug out. The "better" load order is: Here is a comprehensive breakdown of why updating
An NSP (Nintendo Submission Package) is the format used for downloadable eShop titles, updates, and DLC. NSPs must be installed to the Switch’s internal memory or SD card.
For PC users, the search "pokemon shield switch nsp xci dlc update 132 better" often refers to emulation performance.
For a hacked Nintendo Switch, you will need your custom firmware (CFW) set up and running. You will also need a compatible installer like or DBI to install the NSP files. For emulators on PC, such as Yuzu or Ryujinx, these files can be loaded directly.