Nintendo Clarifies: Switch 2 Games Include Game and Upgrade on Cart

Nintendo has recently clarified the nature of their Switch 2 Edition games, dispelling any confusion surrounding their contents. Contrary to some reports, Nintendo confirmed to Vooks that the Switch 2 Edition games will indeed include both the original game and its upgrade on the same cartridge. This clarification came after some customer service comments suggested otherwise. However, Nintendo did note that some publishers might opt to release Switch 2 Edition games as download codes within physical packaging, without an actual game card.

Here is Nintendo's official statement:

"Physical versions of Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games will include the original Nintendo Switch game and its upgrade pack all on the same game card (i.e., they are exclusively Nintendo Switch 2 game cards, with no download code). Alternatively, some publishers may release Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games as download codes in physical packaging, with no game card."

Priced at $79.99, the Switch 2 Edition games include titles like Kirby and The Forgotten Land - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star Crossed World, Super Mario Party Jamboree - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. These editions offer enhancements over their original versions, such as the addition of the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App for games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, alongside new achievements on the Switch 2.

Nintendo Switch 2 Game Boxes

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Nintendo also confirmed that some new Switch 2 game cards will not contain the actual game but will instead provide a key for a game download. These game-key cards are physical cards that only contain a download key, requiring you to download the game after inserting the card into your Switch 2. The packaging for these game-key cards will clearly indicate this on the front of the box, ensuring consumers are aware of what they are purchasing.

Games such as Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster come with this game-key card disclaimer, whereas titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not. Additionally, the hefty Cyberpunk 2077, which occupies 64 GB on the Nintendo Switch 2, is available on a physical cartridge.