Nintendo Reveals Switch 2 Game Cards to Feature Download Keys

Nintendo has announced an innovative approach with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, revealing that some of the new game cards will not contain the actual game data but will instead serve as a key for downloading the game. This was detailed in a customer support post released shortly after the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct event this morning. As the Switch 2 is set to launch in June, fans can continue to buy physical games, but there are key points to consider.

The focus of the post is on "game-key cards," which are physical cards that contain only a download key. When you insert these cards into your Switch 2, you'll need an internet connection to download the game. These cards will be clearly labeled on the front of the packaging, ensuring buyers are aware of what they're purchasing.

The introduction of game-key cards for the Switch 2 has sparked discussion among fans who value the ease of traditional plug-and-play games without the need for downloads and internet access. There's concern that these cards might eventually replace all standard game cartridges, but current evidence suggests this isn't likely to happen immediately.

Social media has been abuzz with observations that while some Switch 2 game box arts, such as those for Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster, feature the game-key card disclaimer, others like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not. This suggests that the game-key card approach may be reserved for particularly large games, 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 advanced technology of its new red game cards, which boast faster data reading speeds than those of the original Switch from 2017. This emphasis on improved technology implies that not all cartridges will be simple key containers. Nintendo's past practices, such as with games like LA Noire and NBA 2K18 on the original Switch, which required additional downloads, show their willingness to adapt game card functionalities.

While it's still unclear how many Switch 2 games will use game-key cards, more information will likely be revealed as the launch date approaches. The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled to launch on June 5, 2025. For a detailed look at everything unveiled in today's Direct, click here. To explore the new technology featured in Nintendo's latest hardware, click here.