Since its launch in September 2021, Hot Wheels Unleashed has been a standout arcade racing title, blending nostalgia with tight, high-speed mechanics. Developed by Milestone and published by Mattel, the game arrived on nearly every major platform – including the hybrid Nintendo Switch. However, within the console modification and backup scene, the conversation often revolves around the NSP (Nintendo Submission Package) format, update patches, and the growing library of DLC.

This article delves deep into everything you need to know about Hot Wheels Unleashed on the Switch, particularly regarding NSP dumps, title updates, and the complete DLC collection – while also clarifying the technical and legal boundaries.


An NSP is a digital package format used by Nintendo Switch. It contains encrypted game data identical to what you would download from the eShop. For Hot Wheels Unleashed, the NSP version offers:

Legal note: NSPs are intended only for backup copies of games you legally own. This guide is for educational and archival purposes.


After applying all updates (especially v1.1.2 and v1.1.5), Hot Wheels Unleashed performs as follows:

| Mode | Resolution | Target FPS | Real Avg FPS (with update) | |---------------|------------|------------|-----------------------------| | Docked | 1080p | 30 | 28‑30 | | Handheld | 720p | 30 | 32‑45 (unlocked) |

Handheld mode actually runs smoother than docked due to the unlocked frame rate introduced in v1.1.2. Stuttering during track building is almost gone after v1.1.9.

Dynamic resolution keeps the game playable even during 4‑player splitscreen, though it drops to ~540p.


Q: Can I use a USA NSP with European DLC?
A: Avoid it. While some DLC works, save files can corrupt. Match region codes (e.g., 0100C8F013F5A000 for US version).

Q: Do I need a specific signature patch for DLC on firmware 19.0.0?
A: Yes. Use sigpatches from GBAtemp or sys-patch alsongside Atmosphere 1.7.1+.

Q: Which DLC is most worth installing?
A: The Monster Trucks expansion adds the most gameplay hours. Next: Batman vs. Joker for the Tumbler.

Q: Can I convert an XCI to NSP and keep DLC?
A: Yes. Use SAK (Switch Army Knife) to convert, but DLC remains separate unless you rebuild the NSP as a “Super XCI.”

Q: Does Day 1 patch come as a separate NSP?
A: Typically, repack groups combine base game + v1.0.6 into one NSP. Check the filename for [v0] (base) vs [v65536] (update version).