Reasons why some Switch 2 cartridges will not include games.

One of the most unusual details that emerged during the recent Nintendo Switch 2 event was the introduction of game key cards. While they won't be used for all releases, these devices function like Switch 2 cartridges that, instead of containing a game, provide a "key" that allows users to "download the full game onto their system via the internet."

As the video game industry moves towards a less physical-release-centric model, the arrival of these cards has caused some confusion among fans. I had the opportunity to speak with Doug Bowser, president of Nintendo of America, about the reasoning behind their existence, and his answer was quite clear: retail stores.

"In essence, it's a digital game on a card," Bowser explained. "The benefit lies in our publishing partners being able to provide games that may be of significant size and, therefore, require a larger cartridge for that game. This allows them to sell those physical games in retail."

This strategy makes sense, especially considering that retail stores remain an important market for Nintendo. Additionally, Bowser mentioned that, in order to differentiate the Switch 2 from its predecessor, the company is "working with our retailers in the U.S." to create "separate sections for Nintendo Switch 2, so there’s a point of differentiation in retail." The Switch 2 cases also feature a distinct design, with a predominance of red.

However, the introduction of the game key cards is likely to disappoint those who rely on physical games for collection or preservation purposes, even though this change facilitates the arrival of larger-scale games to the Switch platform.