Nintendo Switch 2 Game-Key Cards: The Sneaky New DRM Tool

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The presentation for the Nintendo Switch 2 unveiled numerous exciting new specifications, characteristics, games, and other aspects for its upcoming handheld device. In addition to exclusive features such as Joy-Con mouse compatibility and an engaging GameChat function, certain more secretive enhancements were strategically omitted by Nintendo.

In line with the announcement, a fresh type of game medium for the rumored Nintendo Switch 2 has been unveiled: the Game-Key Card. Unlike some physical releases from the original Switch that didn’t include cartridges initially, these new ones will come packaged with nearly blank game cards which need an internet connection to function.

Nintendo Switch 2 Game-Key Cards are sneaky DRM tools 

On the official Nintendo Support site for the forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2, a comprehensive guide titled “Nintendo Switch 2 Game-Key Card Overview” has shed light on an irritating aspect of the upcoming console that’s been causing a stir in gaming circles.

Unlike standard game cards, game-key cards don’t hold the complete game information; instead, they act as a ‘key’ that allows you to download the full game onto your system through the internet.

Any Switch 2 game sold as a “game key” will come with a small disclaimer on its packaging, stating that “a complete game download through the internet is necessary”.

In essence, each Nintendo Switch 2 Game Key Card acts as a license rather than the game itself. To save on production costs associated with creating a game cartridge with sufficient storage capacity, developers opt to have users download the games directly, thereby reducing their expenses.

As a gamer, I’ve noticed something similar to the Xbox One’s original approach with physical games, where it appears the license can be transferred between players, though this hasn’t been officially confirmed yet. On the Nintendo Switch, digital games without cartridges usually come as game keys that link instantly to your account. Considering this, the Game Key Card system isn’t a terrible workaround, but for long-term use, it’s still not my preferred choice.

The console offers a potential resale or transfer option during its lifespan, but it’s important to note that once Nintendo eventually shuts down the console’s servers, players will no longer be able to download their games.

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2025-04-02 19:10