Assassin's Creed Shadows is set to make a notable entrance on the Nintendo Switch 2, confirmed by a recent leak from a French retailer. The unveiling includes box art that indicates the game will be offered as a Game-Key Card, a topic of mixed opinions among gamers. Unlike fully contained game cartridges, a Game-Key Card requires players to download parts or the entirety of the game, which spurs debates on collecting and physical versus digital ownership. Ubisoft developers have suggested that this format is not merely about cost, but also a measure to enhance game performance on the new hardware.

Will Assassin's Creed Shadows be available as a physical cartridge on Switch 2?

No, Assassin's Creed Shadows will be released as a Game-Key Card, requiring players to download content before playing, aligning with the current trend of using this format for smoother performance on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Assassin's Creed Shadows debuted in March 2025, receiving an 8/10 rating upon release. The game builds upon the franchise's rich history of immersive storytelling and historical exploration, allowing players to navigate new narratives while using cutting-edge technology to enhance gameplay. With increasing performance expectations from newer consoles, the choice for Game-Key Cards reflects the industry's reaction to these advancements.