The Nintendo Switch 2 will be offering a new way to acquire and own some physical games with a unique item called a "Game-Key Card." This will function quite differently from standard physical or digital game purchases, so there are a few caveats players will need to keep in mind.

The Nintendo Customer (via Nintendo Life) site has introduced a new physical item for the Switch 2 called a Game-Key Card that will technically function as a physical way to own digital games. While it sounds confusing, purchasing the Game-Key Card will basically give you a key to the game, as the entire game will not be available on the card.

Game-Key Cards Are Like A Code In A Box

The Entire Game Will Still Need to Be ed

The Game-Key Card differs somewhat from owning full physical or digital releases, and provides another interesting option, like Nintendo Switch 2 games will not include the entire game. And, unlike digital purchases, players will need to use the Game-Key Card to actually play the game.

Purchasing the Game-Key Card will give players a "key" to then the game in its entirety. An internet connection is required, as well as enough storage on either the console or memory card, to be able to successfully the game.

This isn't dissimilar to some original Nintendo Switch games that are not completely loaded on their cartridge, still requiring additional data to be ed.

Upon first launching the game with a Game-Key Card, players will need an internet connection. Every time after that, however, the game can be played without the need for the internet. Players will still need to that they must insert the Game-Key Card into the console every time they want to play the game.

Nintendo Switch 2 Game Releases Are Getting Complicated

Nintendo Fans Are Having Mixed Opinions On Game-Key Cards

It's important to note that only some physical releases will come in the form of Game-Key Cards. At first glance, it seems a little confusing to get through the details, and there are pros and cons to weigh. One major issue nowadays is that video games are unfortunately rapidly increasing with their storage size requirements, so this offers a physical release option without the need for most of the game to be on the card itself. The card may also allow players to the game multiple times, as opposed to a standard one-time key that can't be reused.

I'm curious as to just how many Nintendo Switch 2 games will have the Game-Key Card as a purchase option and just how popular this will be. There have been various reactions on the Nintendo subreddit about this announcement. Some people are concerned about the current state of physical media. TheChronoCross said, "Requires the cart, the server, an internet connection, and I'm willing to bet an to be associated with the . Any of those links interrupted due to licensing or depreciation and the cart is worthless." However, ValtsuMC notes that this is an overall positive for consumers, stating, "A key card would allow you to re and run the game while showing Nintendo that you've got a legitimate copy of the game."

Source: Nintendo, Nintendo Life, Reddit (TheChronoCross, ValtsuMC)