Nintendo's recent Switch 2 event revealed game-key cards, which serve as digital game keys on physical cards. Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser explained that these cards facilitate the retail sale of large games, which may exceed cartridge storage capacity. Recognizing the trend towards digital, Nintendo aims to maintain retail relevance by organizing Switch 2 games in separate store sections. However, the move towards game-key cards raises concerns among collectors and preservationists who value physical formats in gaming.
As video games continue to shift away from physical releases, game-key cards understandably created some confusion among fans. I had the chance to ask Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser why they exist.
In essence, it's a digital game on a card. What it's beneficial for is for our publishing partners to be able to bring games to market that may be of a significant size.
Bowser also noted that, in an attempt to make the distinction between the Switch 2 and its predecessor more clear, the company is working with our retailers in the US.
Still, the existence of game-key cards will likely be a disappointment for those who rely on physical games for either collecting or preservation purposes.
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