The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and initial pre-order details reveal that most third-party physical releases will use game-key cards instead of traditional game cartridges. These game-key cards provide a download key for players, requiring an internet connection to access the full game. Major titles like Bravely Default: Flying Fairy and Street Fighter 6 will feature this new approach, with only a few exceptions like Cyberpunk 2077 maintaining full game data on the card. While this transition may disappoint collectors, it allows for easier sharing and resale of games.

Why are Nintendo Switch 2 physical releases using game-key cards instead of game cartridges?

Nintendo Switch 2 is opting for game-key cards to allow players to download full games online, which provides flexibility in sharing and reselling the titles compared to traditional cartridges that lock downloads to a user account.

The Switch 2 is an anticipated next-generation console following the massive success of the original Nintendo Switch. As a significant upgrade, the console is expected to enhance gameplay experiences with improved hardware and support for a wide range of titles—from new releases to classics reimagined for current technology. The shift to game-key cards indicates a broader industry trend towards digital content delivery, reflecting changing consumer behaviors and increasing online game access across platforms.