Nintendo Switch 2 Games in Japan Mostly Use Game-Key Cards, Similar Trend in West

It has become evident that the majority of physical third-party Nintendo Switch 2 games revealed in Japan so far are Game-Key Cards, and a similar trend is observed in Western markets. According to Gematsu, pre-orders for the Switch 2 in Japan showcased that all third-party physical games, except for CD Projekt's Cyberpunk 2077 and those labeled as Nintendo Switch 2 Editions, utilize Game-Key Cards. These cards necessitate an internet connection to download the full game.

In Japan, games such as Ys X: Proud Nordics and No Sleep for Kaname Date are also available as Game-Key Cards. Similarly, in the West, Sega's Switch 2 titles, including Sonic X Shadow Generations, are confirmed to use this format by listings on Walmart.

Only a few third-party physical Switch 2 games have been identified as not using Game-Key Cards: Cyberpunk 2077, Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion - Nintendo Switch 2, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma - Nintendo Switch 2, and No Sleep For Kaname Date - From AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES Aiba Edition.

Nintendo has clarified that some Switch 2 game cards will contain keys for game downloads rather than the actual game data. However, Switch 2 Edition games will include both the game and any necessary upgrades on the cartridge itself.

Nintendo Switch 2 game-key card warning. Image credit: Nintendo Customer Support.

Switch 2 Game-Key Cards are physical cards that contain a download key instead of the game data itself. These cards require an internet connection to download the game after insertion into the console. The packaging of these cards clearly indicates this requirement on the lower front of the box, ensuring consumers are aware of what they are purchasing.

Games like Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster are confirmed to use Game-Key Cards, while others such as Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not. Notably, the large file size of Cyberpunk 2077, at 64 GB on the Nintendo Switch 2, means it is available on a physical cartridge.

Nintendo Switch 2 Game Boxes

View 7 ImagesDaniel Ahmad, Director of Research & Insights at Niko Partners, has pointed out that the heavy reliance on Game-Key Cards could strain the eShop servers at the Switch 2's launch in June, as consumers rush to download their games.

All the Switch 2 bundles come with a download code.

Mario Kart World is 24GB.

Most games come on a game key card and require a download.

The Switch 2 launches globally on the same day.

I am not a religious man, but I ask you all to pray for the Eshop servers on June 5.

— Daniel Ahmad (@ZhugeEX) April 24, 2025

Ahmad also highlighted the economic factors behind this trend, noting, "Game cards are significantly more expensive than discs (+ increases with each GB). It takes time to ramp up production of multiple storage capacity game cards. Digital games / lower capacity cards offer higher margins for publishers. Digital is the majority of sales."

Christopher Dring, Editor-In-Chief and Co-Founder of The Game Business, described Game-Key Cards as essentially "Christmas/birthday present boxes for wrapping up." He further elaborated on the shift away from physical media, stating, "Ultimately, with fewer games retailers, rising manufacturing costs, the fact that younger generations just don’t care, plus the drive for sustainability, all points in one direction for physical media."

Switch 2 pre-orders began on April 24 and sold out rapidly. In response, Nintendo fans have started posting fake Switch 2 auctions on eBay to counteract scalper listings.