The emergence of the Nintendo Switch 2 has brought a significant shift in the format of physical games, particularly with the introduction of Game-Key Cards. In Japan, almost all third-party physical games for the Switch 2 are revealed to be Game-Key Cards, with the exception of CD Projekt’s Cyberpunk 2077. These Game-Key Cards do not contain the actual game data but instead provide a code that requires an internet connection to download the full game. Games such as Ys X: Proud Nordics and No Sleep for Kaname Date follow this trend, while Split Fiction comes as a code-in-a-box.
In the West, the situation mirrors Japan’s, with Sega's Switch 2 titles like Sonic X Shadow Generations also being released as Game-Key Cards. However, there are exceptions: besides Cyberpunk 2077, Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion - Nintendo Switch 2, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma - Nintendo Switch 2, and No Sleep For Kaname Date - From AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES Aiba Edition are available as full physical games.
Nintendo has confirmed that not all Switch 2 game cards will contain the actual game; some will only have a key for downloading the game. This clarification came after the initial announcement, specifying that Switch 2 Edition games will contain both the game and any upgrades on the cartridge. The Game-Key Cards are clearly labeled on the front of the box to inform buyers of what they are purchasing.
Titles such as Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster use this game-key card system, whereas Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not. Notably, Cyberpunk 2077, which has a substantial 64 GB size on the Switch 2, is released on a full cartridge.
The use of Game-Key Cards is seen as a strategic move by publishers, as highlighted by Daniel Ahmad from Niko Partners. He points out that game cards are more expensive to produce than discs, and digital distribution offers higher profit margins. The focus on Game-Key Cards could strain the eShop servers upon the Switch 2's global launch on June 5, as consumers rush to download their games.
Christopher Dring from The Game Business suggests that Game-Key Cards serve as practical gift options, akin to Christmas or birthday present boxes. He notes that with fewer game retailers, rising manufacturing costs, and a generational shift towards digital media, the trend towards Game-Key Cards aligns with broader industry movements.
Switch 2 pre-orders began on April 24 and sold out rapidly, prompting some Nintendo fans to post fake auctions on eBay to counter scalpers.
Nintendo Switch 2 Game Boxes
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