Nintendo has announced an innovative approach to its game distribution with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch in June. In a recent customer support post following the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, the company detailed that the new Switch 2 game cards might not always contain the actual game data. Instead, some will serve as keys for game downloads.

For those accustomed to purchasing physical copies of Switch games, the transition to the Switch 2 will be smooth, but there are new considerations to keep in mind. The introduction of game-key cards means that upon inserting these cards into your Switch 2, you'll need to download the game. These cards will be clearly marked on the front of their packaging, ensuring buyers are aware of what they're getting.

This news has sparked discussions among fans who value the plug-and-play convenience of physical cartridges. There's a worry that game-key cards might eventually replace traditional cartridges entirely. However, evidence suggests that this won't be the case across the board. Some Switch 2 game boxes, like those for Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster, feature the game-key card disclaimer, while others, such as Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, do not.

It seems Nintendo intends to use game-key cards selectively, possibly 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 come with a full 64 GB game card on the Switch 2's launch day.

Nintendo also highlighted the enhanced technology of the new red game cards during the Switch 2 Direct, boasting faster data reading speeds than those of the original Switch. This suggests that the company is still investing in physical media capabilities, not just turning cartridges into mere key holders.

While the extent of game-key card usage remains to be seen, Nintendo is set to unveil more details as the Switch 2 launch approaches on June 5, 2025. For a comprehensive overview of all announcements made during the Direct, click here. To delve deeper into the new technology features of the Switch 2, click here.