Nintendo has announced an innovative change with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch in June. The new console will introduce game-key cards, a type of physical game card that, instead of containing the full game, will provide a key for downloading the game. This was detailed in a recent customer support post following the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.
For those accustomed to buying physical copies of games, the process remains largely the same. However, with game-key cards, you'll need to insert the card into your Switch 2 and download the game afterward. To ensure clarity for consumers, these cards will be clearly labeled on the front of the box, indicating that they require a download.
This shift towards game-key cards has sparked discussions among fans of physical media, who value the immediate playability of traditional cartridges. Some worry that these cards might eventually replace all standard game cartridges. However, early indications from game box art suggest that not all games will use this format. Titles like Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster feature the game-key card disclaimer, whereas others such as Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not.
It seems that game-key cards might be reserved for larger games that could benefit from the download approach, like Hogwarts Legacy or Final Fantasy 7 Remake. Notably, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will launch with a full 64 GB game card, indicating that traditional cartridges will still be in use.
During the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo highlighted the enhanced technology of their new red game cards, which boast faster data reading speeds than those of the original Switch. This emphasis on improved hardware suggests that not all cartridges will be mere key holders.
As the launch date of June 5, 2025, approaches, more details about the use of game-key cards will emerge. For those eager to learn more about the Nintendo Switch 2 and its features, further information is available here and here.
LATEST ARTICLES 23
2025-06
Choosing the right offensive playbook in EA Sports College Football 25 is a crucial decision for every player, especially with over 140 different schemes to choose from. While personal playstyle preferences will always matter, one playbook consistently stands out as the top choice for competitive pl
Author: MadisonReading:1
23
2025-06
Azur Lane stands as one of the most beloved side-scrolling action RPGs in the mobile gaming world. If you're aiming to build a powerful fleet that thrives in late-game content, this guide offers trusted ship recommendations that are not only easy to obtain but also highly effective in combat. These
Author: MadisonReading:1
23
2025-06
While *Honor of Kings* may still be gaining traction among Western audiences, it has already cemented itself as a global gaming powerhouse, thanks to its international release and even a featured spot in Amazon’s *Secret Level* anthology series. However, it's the upcoming action RPG *Honor of Kings:
Author: MadisonReading:1
22
2025-06
Big Brother – The Game has officially launched on mobile platforms, bringing a fresh interactive experience to fans of the long-running reality series. Developed by Fusebox Games and released globally in collaboration with Banijay Rights, the game immerses players in a world full of drama, strategic
Author: MadisonReading:1
