Nintendo's Game-Key Cards for the Switch 2 have certainly ignited passionate discussions. Last month's Switch 2 reveal confirmed that some game cards won't store actual games, instead offering download codes. Nintendo later clarified that Switch 2 Edition cartridges contain complete games including upgrades directly on the physical media.
These Game-Key Cards function purely as digital download vouchers—no game data is stored on the card itself. Each purchase requires downloading the full title after insertion. Clear labeling on the front packaging ensures buyers immediately recognize these key-card editions.
Titles like Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster carry this disclaimer, while Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza maintain traditional cartridges. Notably, Cyberpunk 2077 ships on a full 64GB cartridge—currently Switch 2's maximum capacity.
The gaming community's reaction includes criticism from Nightdive Studios CEO Stephen Kick: "It's disappointing to see Nintendo take this approach. You'd expect a company with their legacy to prioritize game preservation."
During Nintendo San Francisco Store discussions, IGN questioned Nintendo of America's Doug Bowser about physical media's future versus Game-Key Cards.
"Physical releases remain crucial to our business strategy," Bowser responded. "We value retailer partnerships and ensuring products remain available for traditional purchase."
Nintendo Switch 2 Game Packaging
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Bowser elaborated that Game-Key Cards help third-party developers deliver larger games on Switch 2: "Our goal mirrors Switch's success—building the most expansive game library possible."
"This includes supporting publishing partners. Game-Key Cards enable them to bring richer, more immersive experiences to our platform," he continued.
While CD Projekt Red confirmed using 64GB carts for Cyberpunk 2077—Switch 2's maximum—Nintendo's first-party titles maintain smaller file sizes.
Nintendo Switch 2 Storage Requirements:
Mario Kart World: 23.4 GBDonkey Kong Bananza: 10 GBNintendo Classics: GameCube app: 3.5 GBSuper Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition ＋ Jamboree TV: 7.7 GBKirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition ＋ Star Crossed World: 5.7 GB
Niko Partners' Research Director Daniel Ahmad noted Game-Key Cards dominate third-party Switch 2 reveals, potentially straining the eShop during June's launch period.
"Game cartridge costs escalate with storage capacity," Ahmad explained. "Digital distribution and smaller cards improve publisher margins—digital already represents most sales."
The Game Business' Christopher Dring likened Game-Key Cards to "holiday gift boxes," adding: "Fewer retailers, rising production costs, shifting consumer habits, and sustainability concerns all signal physical media's decline."
Read IGN's complete Doug Bowser interview for more Switch 2 insights and Nintendo San Francisco Store details.
