Can't play Zelda thanks to flashing white X? Here's what to do

Over the weekend, Nintendo pushed a new update to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. On the Nintendo Switch side of the experience, some players indicated that the update actually made it impossible to play their game. A flashing white X would appear below the game and players could not start it up.

In fact, TechnoBuffalo’s own Jon Rettinger had the issue.

I have a blinking x under the Zelda incon on my switch home screen. I looked up a solution but can't find one. Any help?

— Jon Rettinger (@Jon4Lakers) May 2, 2017

Turns out, Nintendo is aware and has some steps in place to resolve the problem.

Image from NeoGAF user Symphonia

Here’s what Nintendo’s support site says you should do.

What to Do:

• Ensure your console has the latest system update.
• Check for corrupt data for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
  • If no corrupt data was found, select “Redownload” and follow the prompts to redownload the game.
  • If the option to redownload the game is unavailable, you can perform this process manually by deleting the software and/or software update, and then redownloading them from the Nintendo eShop.
• If the issue persists, restart the console by holding down the POWER Button for at least three seconds to access the Power Menu, then select “Power Options” > “Restart.”
• Launch the software and redownload any necessary software updates.

Don’t worry, you can delete the software without deleting your saves.

Did this fix your issue? If it didn’t, Nintendo advises calling them. Here’s Nintendo of America’s support number: 1-855-615-7224. They’re available from 6:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. PT every day.