Tag: Switch 2

  • Elden Ring Tarnished Edition on Switch 2 Outperforms Steam Deck

    Elden Ring Tarnished Edition on Switch 2 Outperforms Steam Deck

    Key Takeaways

    1. FromSoftware has delayed the Elden Ring Tarnished Edition release to improve visuals.
    2. Performance in handheld mode on the Switch 2 is reportedly better than on the Steam Deck.
    3. Initial mobile format issues included low frame rates and choppy battle animations.
    4. Docked mode shows improved exploration and fluid combat, despite some lingering slowdowns.
    5. Future updates could enhance performance, with expectations for better ports as developers optimize the Switch 2’s capabilities.

    FromSoftware has pushed back the release date for the Elden Ring Tarnished Edition to enhance its visuals. A recent demo from Milan Games Week suggests that this choice might be fruitful. Spanish YouTuber Ray Bacon discovered that the handheld mode of the game offers better performance. He even claims that playing on the Switch 2 now surpasses the experience on the Steam Deck.

    Performance Issues at Launch

    First shown at Gamescom 2025, the FromSoftware game had significant challenges in its mobile format. Frame rates frequently fell below 30 fps, especially in larger areas like Limgrave, which heightened the stuttering. Most concerning was the choppiness of battle animations, making it hard to perform precise attacks.

    Gameplay in Docked Mode

    Ray Bacon didn’t get to try the game on the Switch 2 in docked mode during the event. While there is some glare in the video, players can still enjoy the detailed buildings and lush vegetation. Exploring the open-world sections now runs smoother, with fewer major hiccups than before. Although combat still feels a little slow, the YouTuber found the encounters to be fluid enough to have fun.

    Future Improvements Expected

    There’s still plenty of room for FromSoftware to improve the Elden Ring version for the Switch 2. Sometimes, foliage in front of characters loads just in the nick of time, which can be distracting. Still, the tester believes that portable mode has met all of his expectations. He’s also excited to see how the extra power while docked will enhance performance.

    Ray Bacon also mentions that the Switch 2 is the better choice for playing the Souls-like game on the go. While Elden Ring is verified for the Steam Deck, it requires significant setting adjustments to reach over 30 fps. With its 1080p screen, Nintendo’s device seems to hold a clear advantage in visual quality.

    Looking Ahead to Future Ports

    When developers have the time to fully utilize the specs of the Switch 2, it can lead to better ports for the console. Although Star Wars Outlaws appeared rough in early demos, the final version proved to be much more polished. Fans are hopeful that by the time the Elden Ring Tarnished Edition is released, they too will witness similar improvements.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Slower PS5 and Switch 2 Sales Expected in 2026 Due to Memory Shortage

    Slower PS5 and Switch 2 Sales Expected in 2026 Due to Memory Shortage

    Key Takeaways

    1. Buyers are currently benefiting from discounts on PS5 consoles and occasional savings on the Switch 2, but these promotions may disappear by 2026 due to rising memory costs.
    2. Memory costs make up a significant portion of the prices for consoles, with approximately 35% for PS5 and Xbox, and 21-23% for the Switch 2, affecting profitability for manufacturers.
    3. Nintendo’s Switch 2 may struggle to maintain its price stability as production costs rise, particularly due to increases in NAND flash memory prices.
    4. The semiconductor crisis of 2021 impacted console production, leading to reduced sales forecasts for both Sony and Nintendo.
    5. Future predictions indicate a potential stagnation in the console market before the release of PS6 and the next Xbox, with a forecasted 4.4% decline in shipments.

    Buyers are currently enjoying attractive discounts on PS5 consoles this holiday season, along with occasional savings on the Switch 2. Nonetheless, a report from TrendForce warns that similar promotions may not be present in 2026. The rising costs of memory could contribute to a 4.4% drop in console shipments when compared to the previous year.

    Memory Market Impacts

    Initially, TrendForce anticipated a decline of 3.5% before memory producers shifted focus to meet the demands of growing AI data centers. Their updated findings highlight that console makers usually absorb losses on hardware sales. Yet, memory constitutes about 21-23% of the Switch 2’s price, while it accounts for roughly 35% of the PS5 and Xbox systems. Revenue from software and subscriptions alone likely won’t be sufficient to counter these financial hurdles.

    Challenges for Nintendo

    Nintendo’s handheld device may already find it hard to keep its current MSRP stable. Up to now, the Switch 2 has escaped the price hikes that the PS5 has experienced due to inventory issues. However, the original Switch and its accessories haven’t fared as well. In addition to concerns regarding system memory, the rising costs of NAND flash could result in higher production expenses for cartridges.

    TrendForce predicts that even fleeting discounts may become a rarity in 2026. While Nintendo and Sony may have stockpiled memory resources, this is only a temporary fix. Price increases could hinder demand, negatively impacting sales of the Switch 2 and PS5. The report also references past shortages in components that contributed to a slowdown in console adoption.

    Past Supply Crises

    The semiconductor crisis in 2021 severely affected hardware for both Nintendo and PlayStation. Sony had to revise its PS5 production target down from 16 million to 15 million units. This situation also compelled Nintendo to adjust its 2022 sales expectations in anticipation of disappointing holiday sales.

    Consumers are facing surprisingly high retail prices for DDR5 memory. With the AI sector dominating the supply chains, experts speculate that these components will continue to be pricey until at least 2028. While a 4.4% decline in shipments may not appear alarming, the outlook for 2027 could be grimmer. TrendForce cautions that the market might enter a “period of stagnation” just before the release of the PS6 and the next Xbox console.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Diablo 4 Expansion Announcement Likely at The Game Awards

    Diablo 4 Expansion Announcement Likely at The Game Awards

    Key Takeaways

    1. Geoff Keighley’s spooky sculpture has sparked speculation about a new God of War installment, but Jez Corden suggests it points to a Diablo 4 expansion.
    2. Corden hinted at reinstalling Diablo 4 and confirmed the possibility of an expansion, leaving fans curious about future content.
    3. Significant updates for Diablo 4 could be announced at The Game Awards, with hints of a December 12th reveal date.
    4. There are discussions about Diablo 4 potentially being released on the Switch 2, with interest from former Blizzard management.
    5. Microsoft has indicated plans for more games on the Switch 2, including possible announcements for Call of Duty titles.

    A post by Geoff Keighley on social media showcasing a spooky sculpture has ignited a flurry of speculation. Many gamers were hoping that the host of The Game Awards was hinting at a new God of War installment. However, Jez Corden suggests that the artwork is actually pointing towards a new expansion for Diablo 4. Following this, Corden’s next post has some fans anticipating news about a potential Switch 2 port.

    Speculation on Future Expansions

    Corden reminded the gaming community of his statement from November 6th, where he hinted at reinstalling Diablo 4. Recently, when addressing the confusion surrounding the sculpture, he ruled out God of War as a possibility. After a reader inquired about a possible Diablo 4 expansion, Corden replied with “yes but also, more,” which has left fans curious.

    Potential Announcements at The Game Awards

    It wouldn’t be surprising if The Game Awards revealed significant updates for Blizzard’s action RPG. A dataminer uncovered an image that mentioned a December 12th date written in Chinese. In response to this, a game designer from Diablo advised fans to keep an eye on the award show. Moreover, there is a planned expansion for 2026 on the official roadmap, following the Vessel of Hatred.

    What’s Next for Diablo 4?

    The intriguing part of Corden’s prediction is what additional announcements Blizzard might have. One common theory is that the game could be released on a new platform. Since it’s already on Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation consoles, the only remaining option would be Nintendo’s new handheld.

    Talks about Diablo 4 possibly coming to the Switch 2 started as early as 2025. Building on a leak from NateTheHate2, eXtas1s claimed that the Blizzard title would join other Xbox games that are set to launch on the console. Former Blizzard general manager Rod Fergusson also showed interest in making a port. However, the game’s live service model presents challenges for this system.

    If the developers manage to overcome these hurdles, The Game Awards might have a surprise for Nintendo gamers. While Microsoft has hinted that its studios would release more games for the Switch 2, actual releases have been quite limited thus far. Activision might also soon announce a Call of Duty game for the handheld, especially with Black Ops 7 still unannounced.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • MicroSD Card Shortage May Raise Switch 2 Storage Prices

    MicroSD Card Shortage May Raise Switch 2 Storage Prices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Memory Shortages: Expanding AI data centers are causing significant shortages in memory supplies, affecting products like microSD cards in Japan.

    2. High Demand for Storage: AI companies are driving up demand for high-capacity storage options, making it challenging for other consumers, such as gamers, to find alternatives.

    3. Impact of Game-Key Cards: The introduction of Game-Key Cards requires gamers to purchase additional microSD Express cards, raising costs and complicating game installation.

    4. Pricing Trends: While flash card prices in the U.S. are rising, they are not increasing as sharply as DDR5 memory, but high costs still pose concerns for Switch 2 owners.

    5. Broader Implications: The memory shortage could lead to price hikes for various gaming consoles, impacting a wider audience beyond just Nintendo fans.

    Expanding AI data centers are leading to memory shortages and causing consumer prices to soar. The NAND flash memory market is also feeling the pinch, with microSD cards in Japan frequently selling out. Facing backlash over rising prices, the microSD Express standard designed for Switch 2 storage is in jeopardy.

    MicroSD Availability Issues

    Tom’s Hardware pointed out an IT Media report that tracks the lack of microSD cards in stores. Japanese retailers have observed that the higher-capacity cards, particularly those ranging from 512GB to 2TB, are the most sought after. Even larger traditional hard drives are becoming increasingly difficult to find in stock.

    Demand from AI Companies

    Businesses focused on AI technologies require significant storage to train and create new models. As they purchase M.2 SSDs and traditional drives, other buyers will be searching for alternatives. Unfortunately, for gamers eager to expand their Switch 2 storage, microSD Express cards are appealing when speed is essential.

    Game-Key Cards and Their Impact

    The rise of Game-Key Cards has made it vital to supplement the handheld’s 256GB UFS 3.1 internal storage. Switch 2 titles only come with a small amount of data on their cartridges, necessitating large downloads. While game preservation advocates oppose this format, it’s also making it pricier to keep the console up and running.

    Game-Key Cards are more affordable for publishers compared to Nintendo’s 64GB Game Cards. However, gamers who need to buy several microSD Express cards to install their games may not see any real benefits.

    Pricing Trends in the U.S.

    In the U.S., the faster flash cards aren’t experiencing the same steep price hikes as DDR5 memory. Nonetheless, 1TB options from brands like Lexar still require a $200 investment. Even higher prices might cause Switch 2 owners to reconsider building a large library.

    It’s not just Nintendo enthusiasts who could struggle with dwindling supplies. Moore’s Law is Dead recently disclosed that the memory shortage might result in yet another price hike for Xbox consoles.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition Lacks Switch 2 Specs vs PS4 Port

    Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition Lacks Switch 2 Specs vs PS4 Port

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 version of Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition lacks full utilization of the console’s capabilities, especially in lighting and visual effects compared to the 2014 PS4 version.
    2. The game does not incorporate advanced features like AMD’s TressFX hair technology, which was showcased in the original PS4 launch.
    3. Despite offering higher resolution and stable 60 fps, the Switch 2 port retains too many outdated features from previous versions.
    4. Fans feel that the developers could have invested more effort into improving the remaster, especially given its price point.
    5. This release follows a trend of shortcuts in remastered Tomb Raider games, as seen with criticism towards Aspyr Media’s handling of voice acting in the upcoming Tomb Raider IV–VI Remastered.

    The surprise launch of Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition on Switch handhelds caught many fans off guard. While it’s a great way to relive Lara Croft’s adventures, the Switch 2 version feels like a lost chance. A technical review by ElAnalistaDeBits shows that there are issues with lighting and other visual elements when compared to the 2014 PS4 version.

    Differences in File Sizes

    Nintendo’s eShop features different listings for both the Switch and its newer console, each with varying file sizes. However, as illustrated in the analysis video, Crystal Dynamics didn’t fully utilize the capabilities of the Switch 2. The handheld is capable of ray tracing in demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077, yet the lighting effects in the Tomb Raider remaster feel pretty basic. Moreover, the shadows lack the richness that players would expect from a remastered version.

    Lack of Advanced Features

    When playing in third-person mode, it’s clear that Lara Croft does not take advantage of AMD’s TressFX hair technology. During the PS4 launch, developers proudly showcased how the hair strands reacted in a lifelike manner.

    On a brighter note, the Switch 2 version does offer a higher resolution compared to the Switch or the PS4 versions. Additionally, the PlayStation console often had trouble maintaining 60 fps, but that’s not a concern with this release. Players can also try out mouse control, although it might feel strange without some adjustments.

    Room for Improvement

    Even with a price tag of $20 or less, some fans feel that the developers could’ve invested more into this project. Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition originally launched in 2013 for PS3, Xbox 360, and Windows. Despite having a more advanced GPU than the PS4, the Switch 2 port retains too many features from the older versions.

    This recent letdown isn’t the first instance where a re-release of a Tomb Raider game has taken shortcuts. The same parent company oversees both Aspyr Media and Crystal Dynamics. In the 2025 Tomb Raider IV–VI Remastered, Aspyr faced criticism for using an AI voice generator to mimic a French actress’s voice. Following backlash, the publisher decided to remove Lara Croft’s dialogue from the game.

     

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Cheaper Region-Locked PS5 Aims to Compete with Switch 2 in Japan

    Cheaper Region-Locked PS5 Aims to Compete with Switch 2 in Japan

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony revealed a region-locked PS5 in Japan, priced at ¥55,000 ($355), in response to declining PS5 sales and competition from the Switch 2.
    2. The PS5 price reduction, approved four months after the Switch 2 release, marks a strategic shift towards a more affordable console model.
    3. The Switch 2 is priced at ¥49,980 ($322) but is limited to the Japanese eShop, which may affect its international market.
    4. Sony is willing to sacrifice profit margins with the price drop to counteract trends from the PS3 era that led to struggles for local developers.
    5. Under CEO Hideaki Nishino, Sony aims to revive PlayStation’s presence in Japan, despite challenges from Nintendo’s rapid growth and success.

    Sony’s recent reveal of a region-locked PS5 during a State of Play event caught many fans off guard. In contrast to other consumers facing price hikes for the PS5, the console exclusive to Japan will retail for ¥55,000 ($355). A fresh report from TV Tokyo indicates that this decision is a direct reaction to the localized Switch 2. Sony Interactive Entertainment’s CEO, Hideaki Nishino, seeks to boost declining PS5 sales in Japan.

    Strategy Shift

    Insights from the Japanese video were shared by Hartmann, a member of the Install Base forum. The broadcast clearly shows that Sony has opted to introduce a more affordable console, paralleling Nintendo’s approach. The report also mentions that the price reduction for the PS5 was approved four months post the June release of the Switch 2.

    Price Comparison

    Selling at ¥49,980 ($322), the Switch 2 is only accessible through the Japanese eShop and comes with language limitations. While these restrictions may hinder international scalpers, it’s uncertain if Nintendo is gaining profits from the hardware. In Sony’s case, TV Tokyo notes that the company is ready to give up profit margins due to the reduced price of the PS5.

    With a markdown of nearly $120, this choice may appear risky for PlayStation. Nevertheless, Hideaki Nishino is determined to counter a trend that began during the PS3 generation. Sony made a deliberate choice to focus on the global market, often at the cost of smaller Japanese game developers, who struggled to create pricier HD games.

    Future Prospects

    Nishino took on his role on April 1st, 2025. In a shift from previous leadership styles, he is now refocusing on the local market. However, it might be challenging for PlayStation to keep pace with Nintendo’s rapid growth.

    As highlighted by Push Square, by November 2025, the Switch 2 had already reached sales of 2.6 million units in Japan, whereas PS5 sales were only around 7 million, despite some versions launching in 2020. The newly priced region-locked PS5 could potentially boost the sluggish sales of the digital console.

    Sony might also tap into the profitable mobile gaming community in Japan with the anticipated PS6 handheld. For now, Nishino aims to lay the groundwork for a PlayStation revival in its home country.

    Source:
    Link

    Cheaper Region-Locked PS5 Aims to Compete with Switch 2 in Japan

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Silent Hill 2 Remake for Switch 2 Hinted by Leaker Comments

    Silent Hill 2 Remake for Switch 2 Hinted by Leaker Comments

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bloober Team is committed to developing multiple projects for the Switch 2, despite slower third-party game releases.
    2. There are rumors about a potential port of the Silent Hill 2 remake for the Switch 2, although no official confirmation has been made.
    3. The remake of Silent Hill 2 is set to launch in October 2024, initially as a PlayStation and PC exclusive for one year.
    4. Performance issues have been reported with the Silent Hill 2 remake on PS5 and PC, raising concerns about how it would run on the Switch 2.
    5. Other titles from Bloober Team, like Layers of Fear: The Final Masterpiece Edition and Project M, are anticipated for late 2025 and 2026.

    Third-party games for the Switch 2 haven’t been released as fast as some users were wishing for. However, it’s clear that Bloober Team is dedicated to the console, with multiple projects currently in the works. Although the studio hasn’t revealed a Silent Hill 2 remake for the handheld, a reliable source has indicated there is interest in creating a port.

    Exciting Rumors

    In response to a follower, NateTheHate2 mentioned that there is a desire for a Switch 2 version. His comments align with earlier speculations surrounding Konami’s classic horror game. Set to launch in October 2024, it was believed that the remake would be exclusive to PlayStation and PC for one year before opening up to other platforms.

    Some activity on the game’s official website in October 2025 suggested that Silent Hill 2 might soon be available on additional systems. Rebs Gaming noticed that the webpage had two extra slots, likely meant for Xbox and Switch 2. Neither Konami nor Bloober Team has provided any comments, but a Microsoft event coming up might bring some clarity.

    Anticipated Updates

    Another update from NateTheHate2 discussed the expected Xbox Partner Preview showcase. He believes Microsoft will announce an event for November soon. The focus of the broadcast should be on third-party games, with Konami’s horror game as a possible feature. Interestingly, gamers have recently discovered a now-removed Xbox Store page that listed a November 21st release date for the Silent Hill 2 remake.

    The exclusivity of the game could finally be ending. Still, just because Xbox makes an announcement, it doesn’t mean there will be news about a Switch 2 version. There are also worries regarding how the Unreal Engine 5 project would run on Nintendo’s handheld.

    Performance Concerns

    With enhanced graphics in the Silent Hill 2 remake, there have been reports of stuttering on both the PS5 and PC. The modern lighting effects have also led to frame rate drops. Even though the Switch 2 has better specs, Bloober Team had to lower the visuals of Cronos: The New Dawn, which also uses Unreal Engine 5.

    Despite these challenges, the developers are not backing down from the handheld. Layers of Fear: The Final Masterpiece Edition and Project M are two other games expected to launch in late 2025 and 2026.

     

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Lower Priced Region-Locked PS5 ($325) May Launch in Japan

    Lower Priced Region-Locked PS5 ($325) May Launch in Japan

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo’s Switch 2 is rapidly increasing sales in Japan, nearing PlayStation’s market share.
    2. Sony may introduce a region-locked PS5 console, with a potential new digital version priced at 50,000 yen ($325 USD).
    3. The PS5’s price could rise from 59,980 yen starting September 2024 due to currency fluctuations.
    4. The Switch 2 has outsold the PS5 Digital in Japan, achieving a sales ratio of 2:1 in recent months.
    5. Concerns exist regarding the impact of the PS5’s high price on game sales, particularly for titles like Monster Hunter Wild.

    A rapid sales surge for the Switch 2 has Nintendo closing in on PlayStation in Japan. As Sony faces slow adoption rates in its own country, there are rumors of a potential region-locked console being introduced. A Chinese retailer has hinted that Japanese gamers could see a digital PS5 priced at 50,000 yen, which translates to roughly $325 USD, making it much cheaper than in other areas.

    Rumors and Announcements

    The information first appeared on the Install Base forums, which typically discuss console sales. While gamers should take this with a grain of salt, the upcoming State of Play Japan has sparked curiosity about a possible connection. This presentation will showcase PS5 games developed in Asia and promises “a few other exciting updates.” Fans can tune in on November 11th at 11 PM CET/5 PM EST to find out if the region-locked console is real.

    Pricing Insights

    Per Install Base, the digital console’s suggested retail price of 72,980 yen may be permanently lowered to 50,000 yen. Starting in September 2024, buyers in Japan could expect a PS5 price hike from 59,980 yen, similar to what has happened in other territories. The new price, which converts to about $474, has been affected by the weaker yen against the USD, creating challenges for Sony.

    PlayStation seems to be contemplating a strategy akin to Nintendo’s. The Switch 2, priced at 49,980 yen, saw improved sales in Japan. This approach helped to navigate currency issues and kept international scalpers at bay.

    Sales Trends

    Reports from Famitsu and Nintendo Life indicate that the Switch 2’s sales in Japan surpassed the total lifetime sales of the PS5 Digital just weeks after its release. While the disc version has sold far more units, this trend has persisted. Some sources suggest that the handheld has outperformed the PS5 by a ratio of 2:1 in recent months.

    It’s unclear how beneficial a region-locked PS5 would be for gamers outside Japan. The comparable Switch 2 limits language options in games and restricts access to the Japanese eShop. Nevertheless, the lower price point would be a welcome change for local consumers and publishers alike. In September, Capcom’s President Haruhiro Tsujimoto voiced concerns that the high PS5 price was negatively impacting sales of Monster Hunter Wild.

    Source:
    Link

    Lower Priced Region-Locked PS5 ($325) May Launch in Japan

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Nintendo Shares Positive Update for Switch 2 Amid Rising Costs

    Nintendo Shares Positive Update for Switch 2 Amid Rising Costs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo assures buyers that prices for the Switch 2 will remain stable despite rising component costs.
    2. President Shuntaro Furukawa states that cost reductions in production are being sought to manage profitability.
    3. The retail price for the Switch 2 is expected to stay at $449, barring any major tariff changes or unforeseen issues.
    4. Software development costs are increasing, making it harder for Nintendo to introduce new game titles at a good pace.
    5. Sales of the Switch 2 have been strong, with 10.36 million units sold and a raised sales forecast from 15 million to 19 million units.

    During these rough economic times, Nintendo has brought a bit of relief to buyers, at least for now. In a recent Q&A with shareholders, the company suggested that those wanting to buy the Switch 2 need not fret over rising prices. This news comes as other console makers have raised costs for both their hardware and software.

    Component Costs Explained

    When asked about the rising costs of components, including memory modules that could affect the profitability of the Switch 2, President Shuntaro Furukawa assured that Nintendo will manage to keep profits in check for now. To offset the increasing costs of components, the company expects “areas where cost reduction may be achieved for the Nintendo Switch 2 through ongoing mass production efforts.”

    Prices Expected to Remain Steady

    Since Nintendo appears to be discovering ways to lower production costs, the retail price for the console should remain stable at $449 on Amazon. However, Furukawa also noted that this stability hinges on no major changes in tariff expectations or other unforeseen circumstances.

    While the company hasn’t explicitly confirmed that pricing for the Switch 2 will stay stable, it hasn’t suggested that the increasing component costs will be passed on to customers. They did mention that introducing new game titles at a “good pace” is more difficult because software development costs are rising and timelines are extending.

    Strong Sales Numbers

    It seems the Switch 2’s success has put Nintendo in a good spot. The company recently reported sales figures of 10.36 million Switch 2 consoles from June 5 to September 30. The sales forecast has been raised from 15 million to 19 million units, making it even more popular than the original Switch.

    Nintendo shareholder Q and A

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Nintendo Switch 2 Games Likely to Use Game-Key Cards Instead of Cheap Cartridges

    Nintendo Switch 2 Games Likely to Use Game-Key Cards Instead of Cheap Cartridges

    Key Takeaways

    1. High Costs of Game Cards: Game publishers are avoiding traditional Game Cards for the Switch 2 due to high production costs, which are around $16 for 64GB sizes.

    2. Future Outlook: Despite setbacks in research and development at Macronix, there is a more positive forecast for the ROM business by 2026.

    3. Current Challenges: Production of Switch 2 games is affected by rising costs of NAND flash media, leading to a possible shift towards more digital games and Game-Key Cards.

    4. Performance Limitations: Physical media may have performance drawbacks; internal storage and microSD Express cards in the console offer better performance than cartridges.

    5. Concerns for Collectors: Collectors face challenges as most game data is stored online, requiring internet access and downloads, raising concerns about game preservation.

    For certain consumers, the reliance on internet-based Switch 2 Game-Key cards makes the handheld less appealing. Back in August, there was hope that new developments in flash storage technology might increase the availability of physical games. Sadly, Macronix, the company responsible for making Switch cartridges, has recently shared some discouraging news.

    High Costs of Game Cards

    Many believe that game publishers are shying away from traditional Game Cards for the Switch 2 because they are expensive. Some sources claim that the media costs around $16 and are limited to 64GB sizes. Macronix seemed to have a potential fix by merging MLC NAND and 3D NAND technologies, which could lead to cheaper manufacturing and allow for both smaller and larger cartridge options.

    Future Outlook

    A recent financial report, discussed by Nintendo Patents Watch on Bluesky, highlighted some setbacks for the Taiwanese firm. The chairman of Macronix mentioned that delays in research and development have affected their plans for the Switch 2. Nonetheless, there is a more positive forecast for the “ROM business” in 2026.

    Current Challenges

    According to Patents Watch, media production for Switch 2 games is being handled by Rohm and another unspecified entity. There was an expectation that Macronix would move to support the new Nintendo console. However, the social media community suspects that the company is also facing challenges due to soaring costs of NAND flash media.

    The limitations in speed with Switch 2 cartridges may force a shift toward more digital games and Game-Key Cards. Naoki Hamaguchi, director of Final Fantasy 7 Remake, pointed out that physical media could lead to performance drawbacks. In fact, the internal storage and microSD Express cards of the console perform better than the cartridges. Furthermore, Square Enix has found it impossible to fit the entire game onto the standard Game Cards.

    Concerns for Collectors

    The current landscape for physical collectors of the Switch 2 appears quite grim. While these enthusiasts can gather a collection of Game-Key Cards and their cases, the majority of game data is stored on Nintendo’s servers. To access and play these titles, an internet connection and a significant download are necessary. From a game preservation standpoint, this situation raises many concerns.

    Source:
    Link

    Nintendo Switch 2 Games Likely to Use Game-Key Cards Instead of Cheap CartridgesNintendo Switch 2 Games Likely to Use Game-Key Cards Instead of Cheap Cartridges

     

    Tags: , ,