Nintendo Reveals Switch 2 Game Cards to Feature Download Keys

Nintendo has announced a significant change for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch in June. Instead of traditional game cartridges, some Switch 2 games will come in the form of game-key cards. These cards won't contain the actual game data but will instead provide a key for downloading the game. This shift was detailed in a customer support post following the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct event.

For those who prefer physical media, the transition to game-key cards might raise concerns. However, Nintendo assures that these cards will be clearly labeled on the front of the packaging, allowing consumers to know exactly what they're buying. The use of game-key cards appears to be aimed at larger games that benefit from digital downloads, such as titles like Hogwarts Legacy or Final Fantasy 7 Remake.

Despite initial fears that all games might shift to this format, early box art reveals for games like Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster show the game-key card disclaimer, while others like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not. This suggests that the game-key card approach will be selective rather than universal. Notably, CD Projekt Red has confirmed that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will include a full 64 GB game card on the Switch 2's launch day.

Nintendo also highlighted the technological advancements of the Switch 2's new red game cards during the Direct event, boasting faster data reading speeds than the original Switch. This emphasis on performance indicates that not all games will move to the game-key card model, as seen with previous Switch titles like LA Noire and NBA 2K18, which required additional downloads but still came with game data on the card.

As the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025, approaches, more details on the use of game-key cards will emerge. For comprehensive coverage of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct and insights into the new technology, follow the provided links.

Nintendo Switch 2 game-key card warning. Image credit: Nintendo Customer Support.