Nintendo Switch 2 Game Key Cards – Here's What You Need to Know
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The Nintendo Direct focused solely on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 was jam-packed with information, and I’m still unpacking everything Nintendo revealed. We now have a release date, price point, a full rundown of the console’s features, and a complete list of Switch 2 games. But one aspect of the new console that wasn’t given a spotlight was Game Key Cards, and it’s a rather important detail for consumers willing to shell for the new system.
What Are Nintendo Switch 2 Game Key Cards?
Buried deep in Nintendo’s official customer service section, the explanation for Game Key Cards confirms that these physical game cases will include a card with a redeemable code rather than a traditional game cartridge. This means that even if you buy a physical copy, you’ll still need to download the entire game.
Nintendo clarifies:
“The game itself isn't included on the game-key card, so you’ll have to download it before you can play.”
Thankfully, an internet connection is not required after the initial download, meaning you can still play offline once the game is installed.
The explanation of how Game Key Cards work for the Switch 2 is buried deep in Nintendo’s official website customer service section, giving clear instruction how to use a Game Key Card.
Identifying Game Key Cards in Switch 2 Game Boxes
If you're wondering whether a physical Switch 2 game contains a Game Key Card or a full game cartridge, check the disclaimer on the box (shown above). Some early listings have already revealed this information.
For example:
Games with Game Key Cards: Street Fighter 6 Fighter’s Edition, Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster
Games with full cartridges: Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bonanza
Why Switch 2 Game Key Cards Are Causing Concerns
This shift is concerning for players who prefer physical media. With Switch 2 games already launching at a higher price point ($80 for major titles like Mario Kart World), the idea of buying a "physical" game that still requires a full download feels frustrating. This is of course on the assumption that digital Switch 2 titles are priced the same way as physical versions. Based on how they priced Switch physical titles vs digital titles in the past, I highly don’t expect a price difference between the two.
Big third-party titles like Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, Cyberpunk 2077, and Elden Ring are heading to the Switch 2, and I wouldn’t be surprised if most of these releases only come with Game Key Cards.
The Impact of Game Key Cards on Nintendo Switch 2 Storage
Another issue is storage space. The Nintendo Switch 2 comes with 256GB of internal storage, but with some modern games exceeding 50GB or more, that space will fill up fast—especially if many third-party games require full downloads.
With the Nintendo Switch 2 launching on June 5 (later in SEA regions), we’ll have to see how widespread Game Key Cards become. But for now, physical collectors may find fewer reasons to buy physical copies when some boxes only offer a download code instead of a playable game.
A bit disappointing as it makes Switch 2 more reliant on the system’s storage space, so players will have to consider higher storage space as the launch unit will come with 256GB of space. We’ll see how much of a problem it will be as the Nintendo Switch 2 is coming on June 5 (later for SEA regions). It’s hard enough to justify the initial price point for Switch 2 games, now it can also be discouraging to get physical copies of games as all you get is not the full game primed for use, but just access to download the game you purchased.
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