Nintendo Clarifies: Switch 2 Games Include Game and Upgrade on Cart

Nintendo has officially clarified that games for the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will contain both the original game and its upgrade directly on the cartridge. This announcement comes after initial confusion sparked by conflicting reports from customer service statements, which suggested that these games might not include the game itself.

In a statement provided to Vooks, Nintendo emphasized that the physical versions of Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games will indeed have the original Nintendo Switch game along with the upgrade pack on the same game card. These are specifically designed as Nintendo Switch 2 game cards, eliminating the need for a download code. However, Nintendo also noted that some publishers might opt to offer these games as download codes within physical packaging, without a game card.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games, priced at $79.99, include titles such as Kirby and The Forgotten Land - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star Crossed World, Super Mario Party Jamboree - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. These editions enhance the original Switch versions in multiple ways. For instance, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom now offer additional support for the Zelda Notes service within the Nintendo Switch App, providing in-game assistance, and introduce achievements exclusive to the Switch 2.

Nintendo Switch 2 Game Boxes

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Nintendo has also confirmed that some Switch 2 game cards will not contain actual game data but will instead serve as keys for game downloads. These game-key cards require you to download the game after inserting the card into your Switch 2. The packaging for these game-key cards will clearly indicate this on the front lower portion of the box, ensuring consumers are informed about what they are purchasing.

Examples of games using game-key cards include Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster, whereas Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza do not use this system. Notably, Cyberpunk 2077, which requires 64 GB of storage on the Nintendo Switch 2, is available directly on a game card.