13.3 When Errors Are Displayed

[FearTheTJ]

In general, errors should be displayed as soon as they are detected. This is because users can become confused when a notification appears too long after the error has occurred.
An exception to this rule is if a late notification would not disadvantage the user. Below are some examples.
If the application detects an error in communication that the user did not actively perform (for example, retrieving data in the background).
It is fine to display this error when the user attempts to use the data that should have been obtained.
If the application detects a non-fatal, data-manipulation error (for example, corruption in data that is not required for progress in the game).
It is fine to display this error when the data is used.
If an error is detected during a cutscene or movie playback.
It is acceptable to display the error after the end of the cutscene or movie playback.

Consult with Nintendo support if you cannot or do not wish to display errors immediately in cases other than the above. Nintendo will continue to add other examples to the above where the user is not disadvantaged.
If it is clear that an error will occur with other methods, it is acceptable to display the error beforehand.
13.3.1 When to Notify Users of Errors

Guideline Item
Applications must immediately notify the user of errors once they are detected.
Test Method
Generate an error in the same relevant scenes as section 13.1.1 Handling Error Notifications.
Pass/Fail Determination
Passes if the application displays the error immediately after it is detected.
Software to Be Tested
All applications.
Exceptions
If the following cases apply:
If the application detects an error in communication that the user did not actively perform, and displays the error when the user attempts to use data that should have been obtained during that communication process.
If the application detects a non-fatal, data-manipulation error, and notifies the user when the user attempts to use the data.
If an error is detected during a cutscene or during movie playback, and the error is displayed after the end of the cutscene or movie.