Nintendo Reveals Switch 2 Game Cards May Only Offer Download Keys

Nintendo has unveiled that the upcoming Switch 2 game cards will sometimes serve as keys for game downloads rather than containing the game itself. In a recent customer support post following the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, the company outlined its new strategy for physical game cartridges. When the Switch 2 launches in June, you'll still be able to purchase physical games as you have over the past eight years, but there's a twist to be aware of.

The post specifically addresses game-key cards: these are physical cards that only provide a key for downloading the game. This means you'll need to download the game data after inserting the card into your Switch 2. Each game-key card will feature a clear label on the lower front of the box, ensuring you know exactly what you're buying.

Social media users have noted that while some upcoming titles, such as Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster, include the game-key card disclaimer on their packaging, others like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not. It seems that Nintendo might reserve this approach for larger games that could benefit from a key strategy, such as Hogwarts Legacy or Final Fantasy 7 Remake. However, CD Projekt Red has confirmed that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will come with a full 64 GB game card at the Switch 2's launch.

During the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo highlighted the enhanced technology of its new red game cards, which boast faster data reading speeds than those of the original Switch. This emphasis on improved performance suggests that not all cartridges will be simple key holders. Nintendo has previously used a similar approach with games like LA Noire and NBA 2K18 on the original Switch, which required additional downloads.

While it's too early to determine how widespread the use of game-key cards will be, more details will emerge as the Switch 2's launch approaches on June 5, 2025. For comprehensive coverage of today's Direct and an in-depth look at the new technology in Nintendo's latest hardware, click here.