Fans of physical media are a bit disheartened. Even though the Nintendo Switch 2 will support third-party games and large-scale AAA titles, features that translate to more storage and higher-capacity cartridges, some releases will continue to rely on downloaded content.
Unfortunately, some physical Switch 2 games won’t be playable out of the box due to storage limitations. To address this, Nintendo is introducing “game-key cards,” cartridges that serve as both an installer and authenticator, unlocking the game only after the remaining data has been downloaded.
Third-Party Titles Embrace Game Keys on Switch 2
Adding to the frustration of those worried about the decline of physical games, nearly every third-party title confirmed for the Switch 2 will use this game key model.
Among the few exceptions is Cyberpunk 2077, which will come on a standard 64 GB cartridge. But other major titles, such as Bravely Default: Flying Fairy, Street Fighter 6, Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut, Sonic x Shadow Generations, and Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S, won’t be playable until the additional data is downloaded.
It’s understandable that some games are too large for a single cartridge, but players have noted that even smaller titles like Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S, weighing in at around 4 GB, will still need a game key.
This has caused concern among Nintendo fans, particularly those who collect physical games. Many wonder if buying game keys is even worth it, as these cartridges might eventually become outdated.
How Game Keys Work
As stated earlier, game keys are both installers and authenticators. When inserted into the Switch 2, these cartridges allow users to download the missing data needed to play. An internet connection is essential to complete this process and launch the game for the first time.
Once the game is downloaded, the cartridge will function like any other standard one. These editions feature a key icon and a notice on the packaging.