Nintendo Switch 2 Games: Some Cards to Offer Download Keys Only

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 detailed that the new Switch 2 game cards will occasionally serve as keys for game downloads rather than containing the game data directly. This means that when you insert a game-key card into your Switch 2, you'll need an internet connection to download the game. These cards will be clearly marked on the front of their packaging, ensuring transparency for consumers.

The introduction of game-key cards has sparked discussions among fans who value the traditional plug-and-play experience of physical games. Concerns have arisen that these cards might replace standard game cartridges entirely. However, initial box art reveals for titles such as Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster show the game-key disclaimer, while others like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not, suggesting a selective implementation.

It appears that game-key cards may be primarily used for larger games that could benefit from the download approach, such as Hogwarts Legacy or Final Fantasy 7 Remake. Meanwhile, CD Projekt Red has confirmed that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will indeed 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 of their new red game cards, which boast faster data reading speeds compared to the original Switch. This suggests that not all games will rely on the key system, as Nintendo continues to innovate in physical game media, similar to past examples like LA Noire and NBA 2K18 on the original Switch, which required additional downloads.

As the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 approaches on June 5, 2025, more details about the use of game-key cards will undoubtedly emerge. For a comprehensive overview of the announcements from today's Direct, click here. To explore the new technological features of the Switch 2, click here.