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

Nintendo has announced an innovative approach to game distribution with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch in June. In a recent customer support post following the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, the company revealed that some of the new Switch 2 game cards will not contain the actual game data. Instead, these cards will serve as keys for game downloads, requiring an internet connection to access the full game.

This new method involves game-key cards, which will be clearly labeled on the front of the packaging. This ensures that consumers are aware of what they are purchasing. If you're someone who values the traditional plug-and-play experience, you'll want to check the packaging carefully to ensure you're getting a physical game card with the game data included.

The introduction of game-key cards has sparked discussions among fans who prefer physical media. While some worry that these cards might eventually replace traditional cartridges entirely, current evidence suggests otherwise. For instance, while games like Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster feature the game-key card disclaimer, others such as Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not.

It seems that Nintendo intends to use game-key cards primarily for larger games that might benefit from this approach, such as Hogwarts Legacy or Final Fantasy 7 Remake. However, 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, indicating that not all games will follow the key card model.

During the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo highlighted the enhanced technology of the new red game cards, which boast faster data reading speeds than those of the original Switch. This emphasis on improved hardware suggests that traditional game cards will continue to play a significant role. Nintendo's past practices with games like LA Noire and NBA 2K18 on the original Switch, which required additional downloads, further illustrate their willingness to adapt game distribution methods.

As the launch date of June 5, 2025, approaches, more details about the use of game-key cards will likely emerge. For a comprehensive overview of everything announced during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, click here. To delve deeper into the new technology featured in the Switch 2, click here.