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Nintendo Reveals Virtual Game Cards for Sharing Switch Titles

Mar 27, 2025 2:52 PM

Nintendo has introduced an innovative feature called Virtual Game Cards for the Switch and Switch 2. This allows players to share their digital games with Family Group members similarly to how physical cartridges are swapped. Set to launch for Switch 1 in late April, any digital purchases will automatically convert into a Virtual Game Card, enabling all registered users on the main console to access the game. Notably, players can manage these cards, designating them as 'loaded' or 'ejected,' facilitating sharing with up to eight Family Group members. However, only one game can be lent at a time, requiring a local connection to set up lending, and each loan lasts 14 days.

As excitement builds, Nintendo's much-anticipated Switch 2 Direct presentation is just around the corner, scheduled for April 2. This event promises crucial details about the new console, such as launch titles and release dates.

What are Nintendo's Virtual Game Cards and how do they work?

Nintendo's Virtual Game Cards are a new system that allows players to share their digital games with others in their Nintendo Account Family Group. When a game is purchased digitally, it becomes a Virtual Game Card accessible to other users on the main console or can be lent to Family Group members for a limited period of 14 days.

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These Virtual Game Cards signify Nintendo's attempt to blend the benefits of digital and physical game sharing. This feature reflects the company's push toward enhancing user experience, making digital ownership feel more like traditional sharing of games. With the impending arrival of the Switch 2, this system might become a crucial part of the Nintendo gaming ecosystem.



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Jordan Keats

Jordan Keats is a former professional gamer turned journalist, whose competitive background gives them a unique perspective on esports and multiplayer games. Jordan's expertise in strategy and game mechanics is unmatched, offering readers a deeper understing.

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Stimpy Stimpy commented on: 2025-03-27 15:06:10
Finally, Nintendo’s making digital sharing feel like passing around a physical cartridge—just without the risk of losing it under the couch. Can’t wait to see how this plays into the Switch 2’s ecosystem, especially with that Direct coming up
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