Nintendo has announced a significant change in how it will handle physical game distribution with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. In a recent customer support post following the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, the company outlined that while physical Switch games will still be available upon the console's release in June, some of these will be in the form of game-key cards. These cards will not contain the actual game data but instead will provide a key for downloading the game onto your Switch 2.
The game-key cards will be clearly marked on the front of their packaging, ensuring that consumers are aware of what they are purchasing. This move has sparked discussions among fans who value the traditional plug-and-play experience of physical media, as these cards require an internet connection and a download process to access the game.
Despite concerns that game-key cards might replace traditional cartridges entirely, early indications suggest otherwise. Some upcoming titles like Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster will use game-key cards, while others such as Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza will not. It seems that Nintendo may reserve this approach for larger games that could benefit from the download method, such as Hogwarts Legacy or Final Fantasy 7 Remake. Notably, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will launch with a full 64 GB game card on the Switch 2's release day.
During the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo highlighted the enhanced capabilities of the new red game cards, which boast faster data reading speeds compared to the original Switch. This emphasis on improved technology suggests that not all cartridges will be mere key containers. Nintendo has previously used a similar approach with games like LA Noire and NBA 2K18 on the original Switch, which required additional downloads.
As the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 approaches on June 5, 2025, more details about the use of game-key cards will likely emerge. For a comprehensive overview of everything announced during the Direct, click here. To delve deeper into the new technology featured in the Switch 2, click here.
