"Nintendo Switch 2: Some Game Cards to Feature Download Keys Only"

Nintendo has announced a new twist for its upcoming Switch 2 game cards: some of these sleek new cartridges won't contain the full game but will instead hold a key for a digital download. This revelation came in a customer support post that followed the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, which took place this morning. As the Switch 2 is set to launch in June, gamers can continue to purchase physical Switch games as before, but there are some key changes to be aware of.

The focus of the post is on game-key cards—physical cards that only contain a download key. This means you'll need to download the game onto your Switch 2 after inserting the card. To ensure clarity, Nintendo will label game-key card cases prominently on the lower front of the packaging, giving buyers clear notice of what they're purchasing.

The news has sparked concern among fans of physical gaming, who value the ease of plug-and-play without needing an internet connection or enduring long download times. There's a fear that these game-key cards might eventually replace traditional cartridges entirely. However, current indications suggest that this might not be the case just yet.

Observations from social media highlight that while some Switch 2 box arts, such as those for Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster, carry the game-key card disclaimer, others like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not. It seems that the game-key card strategy will likely be reserved for larger games that could benefit from this approach, such as Hogwarts Legacy or Final Fantasy 7 Remake. Notably, CD Projekt Red has confirmed that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will come with a full 64 GB game card on the Switch 2's launch day.

During the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo also emphasized the advanced technology in its upgraded red game cards, which boast faster data reading speeds than the original Switch. This suggests that not all cartridges will be simple key containers, as Nintendo wouldn't highlight these improvements otherwise. Past examples, such as LA Noire and NBA 2K18 on the original Switch, also required additional downloads, showing Nintendo's willingness to blend physical and digital elements.

It's too early to determine the extent to which Switch 2 games will use game-key cards, but more details will emerge as the June 5, 2025 launch approaches. For a comprehensive look at everything unveiled in today's Direct, click here. To explore the new technology featured in Nintendo's latest hardware, click here.