Nintendo has officially confirmed that the new Switch 2 game cards will not always contain the full game data—some will only provide a digital download code.
In a customer support update released shortly after the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct event, the company outlined changes to its physical cartridge system. When the Switch 2 launches in June, players can continue buying physical games just as before, though with some new considerations.
The statement highlights game-key cards, which carry only a redemption code rather than the actual game files. This means you'll need an internet connection to download the game after inserting the card. To help shoppers distinguish, each box featuring a game-key card will be clearly marked on the lower front section.
The shift toward game-key cards has sparked concern among fans who prefer plug-and-play convenience without lengthy downloads or reliance on internet access. Many worry this could signal a move away from traditional cartridges entirely, though current evidence suggests otherwise.
Social media users have pointed out that while certain upcoming titles, such as Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster, display the game-key card disclaimer on their packaging, others like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not.
This approach seems reserved for larger games—such as Hogwarts Legacy or Final Fantasy 7 Remake—where download keys make more sense. Notably, CD Projekt Red has confirmed that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition for Switch 2 will ship on a 64 GB cartridge at launch.
During the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo emphasized improvements in its new red cartridges, which offer significantly faster data loading speeds compared to the original Switch. This would be an odd detail to highlight if all games were moving to download-only keys. It's also worth noting that Nintendo has previously offered hybrid physical releases—like LA Noire and NBA 2K18 on Switch—which required substantial additional downloads.
It remains unclear how many Switch 2 titles will ultimately use game-key cards, though more details will emerge closer to launch. The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to release on June 5, 2025. For complete coverage of today’s Direct announcements, click here. For a deeper look at the new hardware features, click here.
