Key Takeaways
1. Physical editions of some Switch 2 games may only include a download code instead of a traditional game cartridge, such as with Little Nightmares 3 using a Game-Key Card.
2. Pre-order images often lack important details about game formats, leading to confusion among gamers about whether they are purchasing physical or digital versions.
3. Nintendo appears to be shifting towards a more digital future, using Game-Key Cards as a compromise between digital downloads and traditional cartridges.
4. Game-Key Cards allow for selling, trading, and using games on different consoles without needing a Nintendo Switch Online account, but require internet connectivity for installation.
5. The sales performance of games using Game-Key Cards is uncertain, with some titles like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition still using traditional cartridges and performing well.
For many Nintendo enthusiasts, purchasing games for the Switch 2 can be more complex than they thought. Physical editions found in stores might just include a download code instead of an actual game. For example, titles like Little Nightmares 3 come on cartridges, but they utilize the new Game-Key Card method. This means the media has only a limited amount of data and needs an internet connection to install. Typically, the box art shows the game format, but the pre-order cover for Little Nightmares 3 does not indicate this.
Concerns from Gamers
It’s not unusual for pre-order images to miss out on important details, but some Switch 2 users feel that this policy should change. Gamers who are fans of traditional Game Cards often consider the format when deciding to make a purchase. Bandai Namco, the game’s publisher, has not disclosed that this puzzling platformer depends on a Game-Key Card. This leaves retailers as a reliable source for information. For instance, Amazon’s product page does not clarify the format, while Best Buy’s listing mentions, “This game has the key card delivery function.”
A Shift Towards Digital
Many experts think that Nintendo is slowly moving gamers towards a more digital future. The Game-Key Card serves as a middle ground between digital downloads and traditional cartridges. These Switch 2 games don’t require Nintendo Switch Online accounts, which means players can sell, trade, or use them on different consoles. However, needing online connectivity for installation frustrates those who collect physical media.
Additionally, a Game-Key Card is advantageous for publishers, as it’s reportedly cheaper than the 64 GB cartridges. The original Switch had lower-cost options with smaller capacities. With Little Nightmares 3 Standard Edition priced at $39.99, the choice not to use a standard Game Card may have helped keep the price down.
Sales Performance Uncertain
At this point, it’s unclear if titles that use Game-Key Cards are moving off the shelves faster or slower than cartridges. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition is using a 64 GB cartridge and has been among the more successful third-party titles for the Switch 2. Its developer, CD Projekt Red, argues that publishers should not completely give up on physical releases. Yet, unlike Little Nightmares 3, many competing Switch 2 launch titles were already available on different platforms.
Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not liable for any price changes made by retailers. The discount or deal mentioned here was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time limitations and/or limited stock availability.
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