Nintendo Reveals Switch 2 Game Cards to Feature Download Keys

Nintendo has confirmed that the new Switch 2 game cards will not always contain an actual game. Instead, some will simply hold a key for a game download. This update was detailed in a customer support post published shortly after this morning's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct. As the Switch 2 launches this June, you'll still be able to purchase physical Switch games as you have for the past eight years, but there are key points to consider.

The post focuses on game-key cards: physical cards that only contain a key to download your chosen game. This means there's no game data on the card itself; you'll need to download the game after inserting the card into your Switch 2. Each game-key card case will be clearly labeled on the lower front of the box, providing a heads-up about what you're purchasing.

The news has sparked concern among physical gaming enthusiasts who value the simplicity of plug-and-play without the need for downloads and an internet connection. Some worry that these game-key cards might eventually replace all standard cartridges, but current evidence suggests otherwise.

Social media users have noted that while some Switch 2 box art, such as for Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster, includes the game-key card disclaimer, others like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not. It seems the game-key card approach will be reserved for larger games that might benefit from this strategy, such as 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 new technology in its upgraded red game cards, which boast faster data reading speeds than the original 2017 console. This emphasis on improved performance suggests that not all cartridges will be simple key containers. Nintendo has previously used game cards that required additional downloads, as seen with titles like LA Noire and NBA 2K18 on the original Switch.

It's too early to determine how many Switch 2 games will use game-key cards, but more details will emerge as the launch approaches. The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025. For a comprehensive overview of today's Direct, click here. To explore the new technology in Nintendo's latest hardware, click here.