Nintendo Switch Update Adds Virtual Game Cards, Closing Game Sharing Loophole

It appears that a recent software upgrade for the Nintendo Switch has been released, yet some enthusiasts are expressing dissatisfaction regarding certain modifications.

This significant update introduces new functions such as GameShare, in anticipation of the launch of Switch 2, along with the Virtual Game Card functionality, which was previously unveiled during the March Nintendo Direct.

This update not only revamped certain icons, but did so significantly for Donkey Kong’s icons, to align with the updated character looks. Additionally, it introduced a feature that allows users to move console configurations and saved data over to the Switch 2.

It seems the Virtual Game Card functionality is causing issues among fans due to its role in closing a common method used by them to share their digital game acquisitions across several gaming consoles.

The Online Game Sharing Loophole

As reported by Eurogger, the initial approach for playing a single game across various consoles required the user to log into one Nintendo Switch, enjoy the game, whereas another person could simultaneously initiate the game on the assigned primary console.

Currently, the Virtual Game Card system functions similarly to traditional game cards for digital games. If a game is being played on another Switch that’s linked online, the same game becomes unplayable on the initial console where it was originally purchased.

Instead, hidden within the user settings, you’ll find the recently introduced Online License feature. If activated, this setting permits the account utilized for game purchase (not other accounts on the same console) to play the game online, without needing the Virtual Game Card to be loaded. This is possible as long as the game isn’t being played simultaneously on another connected console.

To clarify, based on tests conducted by Eurogamer, the Virtual Game Card doesn’t prevent offline play while an original account uses the Online License simultaneously. This means that although the restriction is tighter, there’s still a potential workaround available.

Users on ResetEra have shown predictable disappointment with this announcement, referring to Virtual Game Cards as a step-down from the old system. However, there appears to be some misunderstanding regarding the functionality of this new system.

Regardless, Nintendo’s Virtual Game Cards can be seen as an effort to tighten control over digital game sharing by implementing a stricter system. Although there may still be ways to bypass this restriction by not connecting online, it is significantly more restricted than before, and it appears that the previous method of sharing games without internet connection has been largely addressed, at least for now.

Read More

2025-04-30 21:12