Nintendo Clarifies: Switch 2 Games Include Game and Upgrade on Cart

Nintendo has officially clarified the details about the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games, dispelling any confusion that arose from previous customer service statements. The company confirmed that the physical versions of Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games will indeed include both the original Nintendo Switch game and the upgrade on the same cartridge. These cartridges are exclusively designed for the Nintendo Switch 2.

However, Nintendo also noted that some publishers might opt to release Switch 2 Edition games as download codes within physical packaging, without including a game card. This approach allows for flexibility in distribution but may require an internet connection for redemption.

Here's the statement from Nintendo:

“Physical versions of Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games will include the original Nintendo Switch game and its upgrade pack all on the same game card (i.e. they are exclusively Nintendo Switch 2 game cards, with no download code). Alternatively, some publishers may release Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games as download codes in physical packaging, with no game card.”

Priced at $79.99, some of the available Switch 2 Edition games include Kirby and The Forgotten Land - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star Crossed World, Super Mario Party Jamboree - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. These editions offer enhanced features over their original Nintendo Switch counterparts. For instance, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom now support the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing in-game assistance and achievements on the Switch 2.

Nintendo Switch 2 Game Boxes

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Nintendo has also introduced a new type of product for the Switch 2: game-key cards. These are physical cards that contain a key for downloading the game, rather than the game data itself. When you insert a game-key card into your Switch 2, you'll need to download the game from the eShop. These cards will be clearly labeled on the front of the packaging, ensuring consumers are aware of what they are purchasing.

Examples of games that use game-key cards include Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster. On the other hand, titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not use this system. The expansive Cyberpunk 2077, which requires 64 GB of storage on the Nintendo Switch 2, is available on a physical cartridge.