Nintendo Confirms Switch 2 Games Feature Cart Upgrades

Nintendo clarifies that Switch 2 Edition cartridges contain both the base game and upgrade, directly on the physical game card.

Initial confusion stemmed from mixed reports citing customer service remarks, which incorrectly suggested Switch 2 Edition releases might exclude the actual game.

In an official statement to Vooks, Nintendo confirmed this isn't accurate, though noted select publishers may opt for download-only versions packaged physically without game cards.

Nintendo's full statement reads:

"Physical Nintendo Switch 2 Edition releases will feature both the original Switch title and its upgrade on a single game cartridge (specifically designed for Switch 2). Alternatively, certain publishers may distribute Switch 2 Edition titles as download codes in physical packaging without including a cartridge."

The $79.99 Switch 2 Edition lineup includes enhanced versions like Kirby and The Forgotten Land – Switch 2 Edition + Star Crossed World, Super Mario Party Jamboree – Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Switch 2 Edition.

These upgraded editions offer multiple improvements over their Switch counterparts. Titles like Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom now integrate with the Zelda Notes feature via the Nintendo Switch App for gameplay assistance. Switch 2 versions also introduce achievement tracking.

Nintendo Switch 2 Physical Releases

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Nintendo recently verified that some Switch 2 cartridges won't contain full games, serving instead as digital download keys.

These game-key cards function as physical media containing only redemption codes, requiring users to download the actual game content after insertion. Packaging clearly indicates these releases with front-box labeling, helping consumers identify their purchase format.

Select titles like Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remake carry this distinction, while others including Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza don't. Large-scale games such as the 64GB Cyberpunk 2077 release on physical cartridges.