Tag: Switch 2

May 16, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 and GTA 6 Release Uncertainty: Take-Two CEO
Key Takeaways
1. Improved specs of Switch 2 have increased developer support, including third-party titles.
2. There are doubts about the feasibility of GTA 6 being released on Switch 2, as suggested by Take-Two’s CEO.
3. CEO Strauss Zelnick indicated that game releases for Switch 2 are considered on a case-by-case basis.
4. The Switch 2’s custom Nvidia T239 processor enhances performance but may struggle with demanding games like GTA 6.
5. Older Take-Two titles, such as GTA 4 and GTA 5, could potentially be released on Switch 2 in the future.
Improved Switch 2 specs have resulted in increased backing from developers beyond just Nintendo. The handheld features a extensive array of launch games, largely filled with third-party titles. Still, some gamers doubt whether the console has the strength to support a GTA 6 release. Comments from the CEO of Take-Two Interactive imply that a version for Switch 2 might not be high on their list of priorities.
CEO’s Perspective
After a recent financial update, CEO Strauss Zelnick shared a positive outlook for Take-Two’s games on the new platform. However, one of his statements casts doubt on a potential May 2026 release for GTA 6 on Switch 2. Zelnick said: “In terms of what we would bring to any platform, we address it on a case-by-case basis, we obviously want to be where the consumers are. But we would not necessarily bring every title to every platform. There are also great catalog opportunities as well.”
Possibility of GTA 6
Zelnick did not dismiss the idea of Grand Theft Auto 6 making its way to Nintendo’s latest handheld. Furthermore, Take-Two’s 2K Games branch is not planning to immediately release Mafia: The Old Country on Switch 2. However, given the focus on that game, it’s hard not to think that GTA 6 was a consideration for the CEO.
The Switch 2 is powered by a custom Nvidia T239 processor, delivering improved performance compared to the previous model. The support for DLSS upscaling makes demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 run more smoothly. Yet, Grand Theft Auto 6 could be a tough challenge for any gaming system. Rockstar Games has crafted a vast open world filled with intricate characters and items. Developers might need to significantly reduce visual quality to maintain decent frame rates on handheld devices.
Future Releases on Switch 2
Zelnick also suggested that older titles from Take-Two could potentially find their way to Switch 2. Games like GTA 4 and GTA 5, which have not yet appeared on the Switch, would be prime candidates. As of now, numerous third-party games for the Switch 2 are already accessible on other platforms.
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Tags: GTA 6, Switch 2, Take-Two Interactive
May 14, 2025
Best Buy Announces Late-Night Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order Sales
Key Takeaways
1. Best Buy will sell the Switch 2 starting June 5th at midnight EST, but supplies will be limited.
2. Pre-order sales began on April 24th but faced issues with website crashes and missed sales times, frustrating many gamers.
3. Nintendo has reportedly sent a large shipment of handhelds made in Vietnam to the US, possibly increasing stock availability.
4. Concerns exist about chaos on release day, with Best Buy managing queues for pickups and new purchases, but the collectible item promise is uncertain.
5. Other retailers like Walmart may also have limited stock available on June 5th, along with games and accessories.
Gamers who were let down by the pre-order chances for the Switch 2 now have a fresh glimmer of optimism. After mixed messages just a day prior, Best Buy has reconfirmed that consoles will be up for grabs on June 5th. The stores in the US will start selling them around midnight EST, but there will only be a small number of these handheld devices. Additionally, those who buy a console on the release date will receive a free collectible item.
Pre-order Sales and Frustrations
Following a slight delay due to tariff announcements, the pre-order sales for the Switch 2 kicked off on April 24th. Many gamers faced frustration as websites crashed under the heavy traffic. Best Buy also missed the scheduled time for sales, leaving buyers stuck in digital waiting rooms only to find out the items were sold out. Since that time, other retailers like Walmart have occasionally restocked the console, but supplies are still tight, leading to eBay scalpers putting the system up for sale at much higher prices.
Nintendo’s Supply Strategy
In anticipation of tariffs, it’s said that Nintendo sent a large shipment of handhelds made in Vietnam to the US earlier in the year. Now, it appears that either those units are still available or Nintendo has increased their stock. Customers at Best Buy can line up before the doors open on June 5th to try and get their hands on the sought-after handheld. Gamers who have already placed their orders can collect them at the same time.
Concerns About the Release Day
Some buyers have expressed worries about the potential chaos on the Switch 2’s release day. Best Buy is expected to manage queues to distinguish between pickups and new purchases. However, it remains uncertain whether all customers will get the promised collectible. A previous rumor hinted that the collectible might be a gold coin.
For those who are willing to face the crowds, there will also be a variety of Switch 2 games and accessories available. As of now, other retailers have not disclosed their plans, but Walmart could potentially have some consoles in stock on June 5th.
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Tags: Best Buy, Switch 2
May 13, 2025
Nintendo’s Higher Switch 2 Price May Impact Early Adoption
Key Takeaways
– Nintendo revealed the Switch 2 will cost $450, significantly higher than the original Switch’s $300 price.
– The company anticipates selling 15 million units in FY25, but higher prices may hinder early sales.
– Bundling software and hardware is a strategy to encourage early sales as the Switch 2 is compatible with original Switch games.
– Pre-orders for the Switch 2 have been overwhelmingly positive, with millions of requests in Japan and quick sales in the US.
– Nintendo is addressing pricing concerns and consumer demand while preparing for the console’s release on June 5.
Nintendo revealed the cost of the Switch 2 on April 2, surprising both fans and the gaming industry. The new console will be priced at $450, which is a big jump from the original Switch’s launch price of $300. This increase in price has left some fans feeling let down, and Nintendo itself acknowledges that the higher cost could hinder early adoption. Despite this concern, the company aims to make the new system a global hit as soon as possible.
Earnings Call Insights
During a recent earnings call for FY25, president Shuntaro Furukawa addressed queries about forecasts, tariffs, and other important details. The company anticipates selling 15 million units of the Switch 2 within the fiscal year, but Furukawa noted that the higher price might complicate early sales. Hence, they’ve taken a cautious approach in their forecasts. He pointed out that while there is strong excitement surrounding the launch, sustaining that excitement may prove to be difficult.
Strategies for Success
However, Furukawa believes that bundling software and hardware will encourage early sales, especially since the Switch 2 is compatible with original Switch games.
In the US and Canada, Nintendo briefly halted pre-orders to review the tariff situation. Initially, it was thought that the console prices would increase, but they returned with the same pricing for both the console and bundle. On the other hand, the prices for accessories have increased.
The Switch 2 is set to hit the shelves on June 5, and the response to pre-orders has been overwhelming. In Japan, the pre-order lottery attracted 2.2 million requests, while in the US, pre-orders were snatched up almost instantly.
Conclusion
Overall, Nintendo is navigating a challenging landscape with the Switch 2, balancing pricing concerns with consumer demand.
Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2
May 12, 2025
Nintendo Today: Switch 2 Battery Life Could Improve with Stop Charging Feature
Key Takeaways
1. The Switch 2 features a 5220 mAh lithium-ion battery, promising 2 to 6.5 hours of playtime, but high-demand games may drain it quickly.
2. A new battery management feature allows users to stop charging around 90% to help maintain battery health and reduce degradation.
3. The original Switch experienced battery performance decline over time, causing frustration and leading to repairs; a battery-saving setting could have mitigated this.
4. The new feature will not inherently increase the Switch 2’s battery life, as demanding games may still consume power quickly due to improved performance specifications.
5. Limited hands-on testing makes it difficult to accurately assess the Switch 2’s playtime, but the new feature aims to enhance battery longevity.
Battery life is a key issue for any gaming handheld, especially when a device claims to deliver better performance. The specifications for the Switch 2 show that it will be powered by a 5220 mAh lithium-ion battery. It is promised to provide between 2 to 6.5 hours of playtime, but high-demand games could quickly drain its power. Fortunately, a video from Nintendo Today has unveiled a feature that might help in maintaining the health of the Switch 2 battery.
Battery Management Feature
In the clip shared by Nintendo Today, a user is seen activating a setting called “Stop charging around 90%.” When connected to a USB-C cable, viewers can observe the battery indicator slowly climbing up to 88% before it halts. Lithium-ion batteries tend to wear out quicker when they are fully charged because of excessive electrochemical reactions. To minimize this degradation, it’s advisable to keep rechargeable devices at 80% or below. This strategy is similar to the safety measures that smartphones use, which were highlighted in the video about the Switch 2.
Past Issues with Battery Performance
Many players using the original 2017 Switch have noticed a decline in battery performance over time. This decline has frustrated users to the point where they have opted to send their consoles in for repairs. Had the first Switch included a battery-saving setting, it could have reduced the number of replacement devices needed. Nevertheless, not many gamers are keen on keeping an eye on their handhelds to stop charging at a specific percentage.
Sadly, this new feature will not inherently increase the battery life of the Switch 2. When compared to its predecessor, it is expected that games will demonstrate a wider range of performance. With a 1080p display and a refresh rate that goes up to 120Hz, some games are likely to consume the battery power of the Switch 2 more quickly than others. Steam Deck users face a similar challenge, as demanding titles can necessitate recharging in less than two hours.
Testing Limitations
The limited-time hands-on sessions make it hard for testers to accurately gauge the playtime of the Switch 2. Regardless, gamers will have access to a new feature to help maintain their battery’s longevity.
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Tags: battery health, Nintendo, Switch 2
May 12, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Leak: Game-Key Cards vs. Cartridge Sizes
Key Takeaways
1. Concerns about Game-Key Cards: Many Nintendo fans worry that Game-Key Cards, which rely on internet connections for game files, may replace traditional cartridges.
2. Arc System Works leak: A security breach revealed options for Switch 2 games, indicating that digital downloads and Game-Key Cards might become more common.
3. Limited cartridge options: The Switch 2 may only feature a 64 GB cartridge, unlike the original Switch, which offered sizes from 1 GB to 32 GB, potentially increasing costs for smaller developers.
4. Digital distribution rising: With fewer cartridge options and higher costs, publishers may lean more toward digital formats or Game-Key Cards as budget-friendly alternatives.
5. Future of cartridge production: Nintendo may be seeking to simplify cartridge production, with the possibility that the 64 GB cartridge will become cheaper over time.
Many Nintendo enthusiasts have raised concerns about the idea of Game-Key Cards. These cards contain only a tiny bit of data and depend on an internet connection to get game files. However, first-party Switch 2 titles like Mario Kart World still stick to traditional cartridges. Regrettably, other game publishers are starting to adopt the Game-Key Card system. A recent leak from Arc System Works might shed light on why digital distribution is becoming more popular than physical copies.
Insights from Arc System Works
Arc System Works is known for creating games like Guilty Gear and Dragon Ball FighterZ. After the company’s security was breached, gamers got a closer look at Nintendo’s upcoming console. One document highlighted the options available to publishers for Switch 2 games: [DL], [64GB], and [POTION]. It is thought that DL stands for digital downloads, 64 GB refers to a regular cartridge, while POTION is an internal name for the Game-Key Card.
Limited Options for Cartridges
A previous article from Physical Paradise cautioned about the narrow selection of Switch 2 cartridges. The report anticipated a 64 GB version along with a much smaller one. If the information from Arc System Works is accurate, the outlook is even bleaker for those against digital gaming.
In contrast, the original Switch provided a variety of sizes ranging from 1 GB to 32 GB. This variety allowed publishers of smaller games to save on storage costs. With the Switch 2, only a 64 GB cartridge is on offer, and some rumors suggest it is priced at $16. This additional cost can accumulate, especially affecting studios with tighter budgets. Digital options or Game-Key Cards are seen as more budget-friendly choices.
Future of Cartridge Production
Nintendo might be aiming to streamline the production of cartridges. The 64 GB format could eventually become less expensive as it gains popularity. Yet, for the time being, Cyberpunk 2077 appears to be an exception, with a publisher willing to sacrifice profits for the sake of preserving games.
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Tags: Game-Key Cards, Nintendo, Switch 2
May 12, 2025
Nintendo Today App Highlights Switch 2 Joy-Con Mouse Mode Benefits
Key Takeaways
1. The Switch 2 Joy-Con improves gameplay with a mouse mode for better aiming in games like Metroid Prime 4.
2. The Nintendo Today app showcases how the Joy-Con can navigate menus using both analog sticks and mouse control.
3. The user interface of the Switch 2 is designed to be simple and user-friendly, avoiding cluttered layouts found in complex systems.
4. Some testers express concerns about the ergonomics of the Joy-Cons, finding them less comfortable compared to traditional mice.
5. The Switch 2 controller features quick-release buttons and magnetic connections, but lacks Hall effect analog sticks, raising durability concerns.
So far, there has been a lot of attention on how the mouse mode of the Switch 2 Joy-Con improves gameplay. Gamers can more accurately aim at enemies in the thrilling action of Metroid Prime 4. Yet, a new demo from the Nintendo Today app reveals how the Switch 2 controller adjusts for navigating menus.
Nintendo Today App Features
The Nintendo Today app includes regular videos showcasing the specifications of the Switch 2. In the most recent video, viewers observe a Joy-Con maneuvering a cursor on the device’s home menu. Nintendo clearly demonstrates that the analog sticks still work and can scroll through various menus. Players can also enable mouse control by placing the Joy-Con flat on any surface. When the accessory is lifted, it switches back to the usual controller mode.
User Interface and Game Development
Directional controls are good enough as long as the Switch 2 home screen isn’t too cluttered. The user-friendly interface doesn’t resemble complex operating systems like Windows, which have many layers of menus. Still, the mouse control feature could be beneficial for future iterations of games such as Mario Paint. Certain Nintendo games promote creativity, merging gaming with productivity. For instance, the SNES version of Mario Paint actually came with a mouse and mouse pad.
Mixed Reactions on Ergonomics
While the Switch 2 Joy-Cons offer greater versatility, some individuals are not fully convinced of their benefits. During testing sessions, a few testers raised questions about their comfort. The shape of these peripherals can make it harder to reach the buttons compared to a standard mouse. Although shooters highlight the improved accuracy of mouse mode, continuous swiping in Drag x Drive can become tiring.
Additional Features of the Switch 2 Controller
Mouse capability isn’t the only enhancement found in the Switch 2 controller. With a quick-release button and magnetic connections, players can effortlessly detach and reattach the Joy-Cons. Despite this, the absence of Hall effect analog sticks raises doubts about Nintendo’s claims of improved durability.
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Tags: Joy-Con, Nintendo Today!, Switch 2
May 9, 2025
Nintendo Aims to Boost Switch 2 Popularity Amid Price Concerns
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo’s FY25 financial results showed declines in both hardware and software sales, despite growth from new game launches.
2. The anticipated Switch 2 is expected to boost sales and profit for FY26, with a target of 15 million units sold.
3. Pricing for the Switch 2 could be adjusted based on potential new tariffs, which might affect demand.
4. Pre-orders for the Switch 2 in Japan have reached 2.2 million, indicating strong initial interest.
5. FY25 saw a significant decline in hardware (31.2%) and software sales (22.2%), influenced by strong sales in the previous year.
This is the time of year when companies share their financial results, and Nintendo, like EA, has revealed its yearly data. The overall performance for FY25 wasn’t very strong for Nintendo, with declines in both hardware and software sales. However, the business from the games launched during the fiscal year showed consistent growth. The anticipated Switch 2 is projected to bring notable increases for the upcoming fiscal year, but the company is keeping a close eye on the tariff situation. While the console’s pricing remains stable for the moment, it could be subject to change later.
Pricing Adjustments Ahead
As stated in a report by Reuters, Nintendo’s President Shuntaro Furukawa mentioned during the earnings call that the pricing for Switch 2 could be modified if new tariffs are introduced. This could potentially decrease demand for the console. For now, the goal is to rapidly enhance the console’s popularity around the world. Nintendo aims to sell 15 million units of the Switch 2, hoping for a 13% increase in operating profit for FY26. The pre-order lottery in Japan has already collected 2.2 million orders, suggesting that 15 million units might be a more cautious target.
Pre-Order Strategy
In the US and Canada, Nintendo chose to delay pre-orders to evaluate the effects of tariffs, but the company maintained the original pricing for the consoles; however, accessory prices have risen. It appears that Nintendo is carefully watching the situation. Although they are eager to get the Switch 2 into the hands of many consumers, the console’s price is still influenced by the potential severity of the tariffs imposed.
Sales Trends
The FY25 report indicates that hardware sales declined by 31.2% compared to the previous year, while software sales fell by 22.2% year-on-year. A contributing factor to this decline was the strong sales from the previous fiscal year, driven by titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, released in May 2023, and Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which came out in October 2023. Considering that the original Switch is now entering its ninth year, these sales figures can be seen as relatively steady.
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Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2
May 8, 2025
Nintendo Begins Sending Switch 2 Pre-Order Invitations to U.S. Gamers
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo is sending out pre-order invitation emails to select gamers, but timing and availability remain unclear.
2. Only a small number of players have reported receiving emails, indicating limited console availability ahead of the June 5th launch.
3. Eligible buyers include Nintendo Switch Online subscribers with over 12 months of membership and 50+ hours of gameplay, but invitations are not guaranteed.
4. Gamers who receive invitations have a 72-hour window to complete their purchases on Nintendo’s Store.
5. Delivery options may lead to delays, with standard shipping taking 3-9 business days and expedited options still possibly arriving after the Switch 2’s release date.
U.S. gamers were aware that Nintendo would dispatch emails to chosen players on May 8th, but the specific time for pre-ordering the Switch 2 was still unclear. Now, it seems that invitation emails are beginning to reach select gamers. Nevertheless, as has been the case during the pre-order phase, there is still a lot of confusion regarding the availability and shipping methods.
Select Emails Rolling Out
Currently, only a small group of users on the ResetEra forums and various subreddits have reported receiving an email. This pattern might suggest that Nintendo plans to keep sending invitations throughout the day, or it could mean that the number of consoles available is even lower than anticipated. Nintendo has already mentioned that there might not be enough handheld devices for every player by the Switch 2 launch on June 5th.
Invited Buyers Share Their Emails
Lucky participants who received invites from Nintendo have shared the content of their emails. There’s nothing particularly surprising in the communication, as gamers have a window of 72 hours to complete their purchases. Before the pre-order period kicked off, Nintendo made it clear which buyers would be eligible. The company favors Nintendo Switch Online subscribers who have been registered for over 12 months and logged 50+ hours of gameplay. However, even those who meet these criteria are not guaranteed an invitation to purchase the console from Nintendo’s Store.
Delivery Options and Expectations
On social media, retail tracker Wario64 suggested that gamers waiting for their emails should visit Nintendo’s website. Any gamer who gets selected by Nintendo might be able to finalize their order right away.
An unexpected downside for buyers relates to the delivery choices. The standard free shipping option estimates delivery in 3-9 business days. Depending on when the order is dispatched, the console might not arrive until after the Switch 2 release date. Even the expedited shipping options provide estimated delivery times of 2-3 days. While the Switch 2 pre-order frenzy has caused issues for retailers like Best Buy and GameStop, players still hope to receive their consoles on June 5th.
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Tags: Nintendo, Pre-order, Switch 2
May 7, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 May Record GameChat Audio and Video for Safety
Key Takeaways
1. Starting March 2026, a Nintendo Switch Online subscription will be required to use the new GameChat features.
2. Nintendo’s updated privacy policy allows the company to collect, monitor, and record audio and video from GameChat sessions for safety purposes.
3. The Switch 2 aims to appeal to both long-time fans and teenagers, despite concerns about privacy regarding recorded chat sessions.
4. GameChat features safety measures, requiring friends-only connections, text message verification, and parental approval for users under 16.
5. Unlike Microsoft and Sony, who do not continuously record chats, Nintendo is openly monitoring online interactions with GameChat.
Gamers seem to be a bit unsure about the new GameChat features in Nintendo’s Switch 2. Starting March 2026, you will need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to use this feature. Additionally, screen-shared videos might not run as smoothly due to lower frame rates. Recently, Nintendo also announced it might record both audio and video from GameChat to ensure that online gaming remains safe for everyone involved.
Privacy Policy Changes
Keen-eyed users on Reddit discovered that Nintendo has updated the privacy policy on their website. The new language indicates that the company “may collect, monitor and record audio and video of your chat sessions with other users to provide a safe and secure environment for certain of our services.” The detailed text makes it clear that Nintendo could keep track of shared content, which includes “text, images, audio, video, your nickname and user icon.”
Audience and Concerns
Despite the fact that long-time fans of classic Nintendo games have grown older, the Switch remains a favorite console among teenagers. With the improved specifications of the Switch 2, it can now hold its own against advanced portable computers. However, Nintendo does not expect a major shift in its target audience. Given this demographic, many Reddit users feel there’s a valid reason for recording GameChat sessions. On the flip side, some players are vowing to steer clear of this feature because of privacy worries.
Multiplayer Safety Measures
Nintendo has already set up some measures to protect players in Switch 2’s multiplayer mode. For one, GameChat can only be initiated with people on a gamer’s friend list. Additionally, there’s a system that requires text message verification during the setup process. Lastly, parents need to give their approval for kids under 16 to use GameChat with other players.
In contrast, both Microsoft and Sony assert that they do not record chats continuously on their Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Gamers, however, have the option to report clips if they encounter any bad behavior. Discussions are also ongoing on Discord about how the service manages archived messages. With the introduction of Switch 2 GameChat, it seems Nintendo is just being more open about its monitoring of online interactions.
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Tags: GameChat, Nintendo, Switch 2
May 7, 2025
Avoid Using Switch 2 Game-Key Cards, Says Cyberpunk 2077 Developer
Key Takeaways
1. Upcoming Switch 2 games will use Game-Key Cards, requiring players to download game files while keeping the card in the console to start games.
2. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition is an exception, being released on a 64 GB cartridge, highlighting the ongoing value of physical copies.
3. Developer Jan Rosner emphasizes that many Nintendo fans prefer physical copies for convenience and independence from internet connections.
4. Game-Key Cards may reduce costs for publishers, but there are concerns about game preservation and the collector culture surrounding physical cartridges.
5. Nintendo continues to support physical copies for first-party games, recognizing their audience’s preference against fully digital gaming.
Many upcoming physical third-party games for the Switch 2 will utilize Game-Key Cards instead of the usual cartridges. Players will need to download the game files, but must keep the card in the console to start the games. An exception to this is Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, which comes on a 64 GB cartridge. This shift towards digital formats hasn’t pleased a lot of Nintendo fans. In a discussion with The Game Business, a developer from Cyberpunk 2077 shared insights on why Switch players still prefer physical copies.
Developer Insights
Jan Rosner, who is the VP of Business Development at CD Projekt Red, shared how The Witcher 3 shaped their choices for Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition. The open-world RPG was already on other systems, yet the 2019 release of The Witcher 3 found a strong fan base among Nintendo users. The developer believes that part of this popularity comes from the convenience of gaming on the go with cartridges. Even if players risk losing the physical copies, they aren’t dependent on an internet connection.
Future of Game-Key Cards
Rosner doesn’t foresee Game-Key Cards overtaking cartridges anytime soon. He explained, “Nintendo’s presence in physical stores remains robust, and retail as a whole isn’t disappearing. I doubt we will soon see a time when all games are purely digital.”
Cost and Collector Culture
Reportedly, 64 GB cartridges cost at least $16, which increases the expenses involved in publishing games for the Switch 2. Game-Key Cards enable companies to cut costs while distributing titles in retail packaging. Nonetheless, Rosner argues that profit shouldn’t be the sole consideration in the debate between physical and digital formats. Owners of Switch consoles love to build collections of cartridges. Additionally, advocates for game preservation worry about depending on servers for future access.
First-party games for the Switch 2, such as Mario Kart World, still rely on physical copies. Nintendo seems to understand its main audience’s hesitance toward fully digital gaming. However, Cyberpunk 2077 stands out as one of the few titles advocating for cartridges among those newly available on the Switch consoles.
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Tags: Cyberpunk 2077, Game-Key Cards, Switch 2