Switch 2 Publisher Promises Full Game On Cartridge Out Of Love For Physical Media

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Summary

  • Nintendo’s Game Key Card technology allows games to be released physically, while requiring an online download.
  • The publisher behind the upcoming Rune Factory: Guardians Of Azuma, however, has promised a full ROM release.
  • This choice demonstrates the publisher’s commitment to physical media and providing the best possible experience for consumers.

A disappointing truth is that along with the launch of Switch 2, enthusiasts of traditional gaming media are taking a hit, since Nintendo’s latest Game Key Card technology enables developers to create physical cartridges but compels users to download the games online instead.

Moreover, there’s a minor exception that enables all games, regardless of their size (even those smaller than 64GB for physical cartridges), to save costs through the use of digital Game Key Cards instead. It seems that the majority of third-party games are opting for this method at present.

Nevertheless, some developers with a fondness for traditional media formats are holding firm to their commitment, ensuring that complete games will be available on cartridges for the upcoming Switch 2. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 by CD Projekt Red have pledged a seamlessly optimized, ROM-included physical version for the Switch 2.

In a recent conversation with rpgsite.net, Marvelous USA’s CEO Ken Berry, who is handling the release of Rune Factory: Guardians Of Azuma on Switch 2, shared that they deliberately chose not to use Key Cards due to their commitment to traditional, tangible media.

Ken Berry expressed his preference for physical media, stating in an interview that he didn’t buy the PS5 Pro until he could get the disc drive add-on first. This consumer-focused strategy aligns with their decision to release the product physically, as he elaborated.

Making the decision wasn’t straightforward since it was required several months back when everything was quite unpredictable, and we were still grasping the intricacies of the Game Key Card system. However, as we delved deeper into its workings, I came to believe that our audience would find the ROM option more appealing.

Personally speaking, I’ve noticed a strong preference among fellow enthusiasts towards the ROM cartridges. These cartridges house the whole game within themselves, unlike the Key Cards used by many third-party developers.

Despite the fact that all first-party Nintendo games will be available as full ROM releases, it’s still disheartening to learn that most third-party developers are choosing a different approach. This is particularly concerning given the future scenario where the servers used for game downloads may eventually shut down.

Furthermore, choosing this version of the game grants it the title “Enhanced Edition for Nintendo Switch 2,” allowing players to enjoy it not only on the new console but also on the original Nintendo Switch, providing an advantage to consumers.

In keeping with their tradition of adding bonus content to their physical releases, Marvelous USA is renowned for including extras like fan books, manuals, and printed inserts. To quote them directly, “adding extra value has always been part of who we are.

Nowadays, it’s truly valuable to witness a developer who values the quality of their product for their audience, despite potential financial losses in the future.

Or:

In today’s world, it’s rare and precious to find a developer who prioritizes the quality of their product for fans, even if it leads to monetary sacrifices down the line.

If you’d like some background information on other games published by Marvelous USA, we strongly suggest you check out the entire interview. On the other hand, it’s anticipated that Rune Factory: Guardians Of Azuma will be launched simultaneously with the Switch 2 next month.

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2025-05-28 02:09