ⓘ Nintendo with edits
As the PS5 embraces the digital era, some collectors view Nintendo as the last defender of physical games. The company and its partners continue to release many Switch 2 games on cartridges. However, a new report claims that titles debuting as controversial Game-Key Cards can’t change their format.
The format debate
Video Games Plus encourages publishers to embrace Game Cards, which contain most of a game’s data. By contrast, Game-Key Cards often require large downloads before they boot on consoles. Collectors worried about preservation and ownership rights prefer traditional physical media.
On social media, the Canadian retailer revealed why Switch 2 games on Game-Key Cards are unlikely to appear on cartridges. According to the store, “there is a Nintendo policy that prevents it.”
After fans blamed the gaming giant, Video Games Plus later clarified its deleted post. They explained the “policy is in place for certain reasons that make sense” and denied that Nintendo is “intentionally stopping publishers just for the sake of it.”
Whether due to an NDA or otherwise, the reason for the constraint is unclear. Nevertheless, readers have theories about why companies can’t placate physical game advocates.
One popular explanation is that Nintendo wants to avoid confusion. Console owners already typically have at least two options, including a digital eShop purchase. If publishers introduced a third format, some buyers may also feel their version is inferior.
Companies have responded to criticism of Game-Key Cards by reversing decisions. ININ switched R-Type Dimensions III to a cartridge ahead of its launch. Still, buyers ended up paying more for the Switch 2 game than announced.
More choices for game-makers
ININ also hinted a lower-capacity, cheaper Game Card had arrived. Originally, only pricey 64 GB media was rumored to be available. That concerned smaller studios outputting titles with condensed file sizes. More recently, Stellar Blade Complete Edition was one of the first examples to ship on a 32 GB version.
With affordability addressed, collectors see even less reason for Game-Key Cards to dominate. Video Games Plus hopes Nintendo solves whatever issue is restricting post-release flexibility.
I became interested in technology at a young age and enjoyed discovering the latest innovations. While earning college degrees in publishing, I created several PC hardware and gaming websites. My passion has always been to guide readers on what products can truly improve their lives. After many years as a Tech Writer for Game Rant, I’m anxious to share my knowledge with a new audience at Notebookcheck.
