"Nintendo Reveals Switch 2 Game Cards to Feature Download Keys"

Nintendo has announced an innovative shift for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, introducing game-key cards that don't contain the actual game data but instead provide a key for digital downloads. This new approach was detailed in a recent customer support post released following the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct event this morning. When the Switch 2 launches in June, gamers can continue to buy physical games, but they should be aware of the new game-key card system.

The customer support post specifically addresses these game-key cards, which are essentially physical cards that house a download key rather than the game itself. Upon inserting the card into the Switch 2, users will need to download the game online. To help consumers make informed purchases, these game-key card cases will be clearly labeled on the front lower portion of the packaging.

The news of game-key cards for the Switch 2 has sparked discussions among fans who cherish the traditional plug-and-play experience without the need for internet connectivity and downloads. There's a concern that these game-key cards might eventually replace traditional game cartridges, but current evidence suggests otherwise.

Social media has been abuzz with observations that while some Switch 2 game covers, such as Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster, include the game-key card disclaimer, others like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not. This indicates that the game-key card system might be reserved for larger games that could benefit from this method, such as titles like Hogwarts Legacy or Final Fantasy 7 Remake. Notably, CD Projekt Red has confirmed that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will ship with a full 64 GB game card on the Switch 2’s launch day.

During the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo highlighted the advanced technology behind their new red game cards, which boast faster data reading speeds than those of the original 2017 hybrid console. This emphasis on improved hardware suggests that not all game cartridges will be mere key containers. Historical examples from the original Switch, like LA Noire and NBA 2K18, required additional downloads, showing that Nintendo has previously navigated the line between physical and digital content.

While it's still unclear how many Switch 2 games will use game-key cards, more details are expected as the launch date of June 5, 2025, approaches. For comprehensive coverage of all announcements from today’s Direct, click here. To delve deeper into the new technological features of Nintendo's latest hardware, click here.