There’s a lot of hoopla around the new Switch 2 Game Key Card and its purpose.
Nintendo’s latest Direct dropped a bunch of details for the upcoming console.
But what are the new cards, and are they all just download-only options from now on?
Switch 2 Game Key Card
Firstly, understand that not every Switch 2 game key card is download only.
There are going to be and are currently Game Cards that come with the game files locally installed. Therefore, not needing an online connection to install said game. However, depending on the Switch 2 Game Key Card title, you will need an internet connection to install.
But how will you know which is which? Well, we can take a look at the bottom right of the game box to see the card details. If the Switch 2 Game Key Card has the blue logo, then it’s online only.
Also, it goes without saying that an online Switch 2 Game Key Card will need internet access. Although your physical Switch 2 Game Key Card is real, it really just works like a download key. Much like a Steam key or any PC game disc these days.
But this is a concerning move towards digital only from Nintendo that should be carefully approached. Because no, I don’t want to sit around installing games all day like other consoles!
Also, this download-only version really seems to only apply to third-party titles. We are talking about big, chunky games like Elden Ring and SF6. Although they only contain 1080p files, they still surpass the limit of microSD cartridges.
So honestly, if you are wondering if a game needs an online install, check if it’s from Nintendo or not. Also, an internet connection is only required for the first-time install. Playing your game from then on can be done offline.
Granted, if you have the card inserted, that is.
$90 Virtual Games
So honestly, it’s not the biggest surprise Nintendo would make a move like this. However, again, it should really be discouraged when necessary because, let’s be frank, no one likes having to wait all day from buying a physical copy.
Also, I too am in shock from the price announcements. Not for the console itself but the games themselves. Digital games that you do not own are now being charged for $80. Despite the fact it cost nothing to make it digital, in fact, it’s cheaper on their end. Now you, the customer, are going to spend that much money on a virtual pastime item.
Look I’m writing on a website with Game in the title, and even I think that’s too steep for a video game. The old Monkey Island quote of never spending more than 20 bucks on a game echoes throughout time.
Also, this is Nintendo we are talking about. They are never going to drop the prices of Nintendo products because of their policy. The Zelda BOTW game that came out in 2017, 8 years ago, is 80 dollars on the eShop!
That is almost a hundred bucks for a 7-year-old title!
Games, unlike any other media, devalue very quickly over time. Sure, it’s still fun, but are you going to tell me you should pay day one prices for a 30-year-old NES title?
Although Nintendo showed off some cool specs, their prices are deservedly turning away a lot of potential gamers. Honestly, why would you pay 80 bucks for Yakuza 0 Switch when it’s on PC for 3 bucks?
