Nintendo is Asking for Feedback On Divisive Switch 2 Feature

by

Nintendo is curious about the opinions of Nintendo Switch 2 users regarding the Game-Key Cards system, as a new survey has been launched. These cards replaced traditional cartridges when first introduced, but have sparked debate in the Nintendo Switch 2 community due to some users’ dissatisfaction with this method for game distribution.

The second version of the Nintendo Switch has been a massive hit, selling over 6 million units worldwide since its launch on June 5. Most responses to this latest hybrid gaming system have been favorable, but Game-Key Cards have become a contentious topic. Many gamers criticize Nintendo for using these cards so often. Essentially, players must download the entire game onto their Switch 2 system, with the cards serving as authentication tokens for cartridges. The primary issue with Game-Key Cards revolves around preservation since players need to rely on Nintendo’s servers to keep running indefinitely if they want to play the games they’ve bought.

Nintendo Switch 2 Owners Asked to Provide Feedback About Game-Key Cards

In July, Nintendo started distributing a questionnaire about the Game-Key Cards on the Switch 2 console to its Japanese users. This survey has recently become available in Western regions, focusing mainly on the debated feature and the preferred medium among fans. Nintendo is asking Switch 2 owners why they might choose physical versions of Nintendo Switch games over digital ones, with one notable response suggesting that having a physical game gives a stronger feeling of ownership. Respondents are also encouraged to express their opinions in writing, and many on social media have expressed concerns about Game-Key Cards due to Nintendo’s closure of the Wii U and 3DS digital storefronts.

In May, Nintendo clarified that future first-party Switch 2 games won’t rely on Game-Key Cards, easing some apprehensions. Unfortunately, those who favor third-party titles may find themselves disappointed as the majority of developers are using these cards because of the system’s cartridges having a storage limit of 64GB. Notable games utilizing Game-Key Cards include Sonic X Shadow Generations, Hogwarts Legacy, and Street Fighter 6, with the latter offering a DLC code that will expire in two years. It’s not surprising that fans have expressed their discontent due to this constraint.

The month of August seems to be rather subdued for the Switch 2. However, enthusiasts eager about its distinctive mouse controls should stay alert, as “Drag x Drive” is set to launch on August 14th. Regrettably, many key first-party games like “Kirby Air Riders” and “Metroid Prime 4: Beyond” don’t have definite release dates yet, but they are still expected in 2025.

Read More

2025-08-04 18:30