Nintendo has announced that the new Nintendo Switch 2 game cards will sometimes contain a key for game downloads rather than the game itself. This was detailed in a customer support post released following the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct this morning. As the Switch 2 is set to launch in June, gamers can continue to buy physical Switch games, but there are important details to consider.

The post specifically addresses game-key cards: these are physical cards that include a key to download the game, rather than containing the game data directly. When you insert these cards into your Switch 2, you will need to download the game. Each game-key card case will have a clear label on the front lower portion of the box, ensuring that buyers are aware of what they are purchasing.

This news has sparked concerns among fans who value the simplicity of plug-and-play games without the need for downloads and internet connectivity. Some worry that these game-key cards might eventually replace traditional cartridges entirely. However, evidence suggests that this might not be the case, at least not immediately.

Observers have noted that while some early Switch 2 box arts, such as Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster, include the game-key card disclaimer, others like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not. It seems that game-key cards might be used primarily for larger games that could benefit from this approach, such as Hogwarts Legacy or Final Fantasy 7 Remake. Notably, CD Projekt Red has confirmed that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will be released with a full 64 GB game card on the Switch 2's launch day.

During the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo emphasized the enhanced technology of its new red game cards, which offer faster data reading speeds compared to the original Switch. This suggests that not all cartridges will be mere key containers. 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 predict the extent to which game-key cards will be used, more details will likely emerge as the launch date approaches. The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025. For more information on today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, click here. To explore the new technology features of the Switch 2, click here.