To make updates work, you must ensure the update file matches the region of your base game (e.g., USA update for a USA base game). 3. How to Make Updates Work: Merging and Installing

When using an XCI file (cartridge dump), the Switch treats it exactly like a physical game card. To update an XCI, you do not need to modify the base XCI file itself. Instead, you can download and install the update file (typically as an NSP) directly onto the console's internal storage or microSD card. Once installed, the Switch will automatically pair the base XCI game with the update. Updating an NSP File

Skylanders Imaginators represents a unique chapter in the toys‑to‑life genre. Released in 2016 and making its way to the Nintendo Switch on March 3, 2017, it was the sixth and final mainline entry in the Skylanders franchise. The Switch version, developed by Toys for Bob and published by Activision, introduced a significant departure from previous entries: it eliminated the need for a physical Portal of Power. Instead, players could use the Joy‑Con’s built‑in NFC reader to scan their physical toys, storing them in a digital library for on‑the‑go access.

Both formats will allow you to play the base game perfectly. However, if you are looking to utilize the game’s unique features—like the digital portal of power functionality unique to the Switch version—the format won't hinder your ability to scan figures, provided your console setup and firmware are properly updated. Why Game Updates are Critical for Skylanders Imaginators