Nintendo Switch 2: Will Game Key Cards Spell the End for Physical Games? Marvelous CEO Speaks Out

The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is generating significant buzz, but perhaps not all of it is positive. A key point of contention is the introduction of "game-key cards," a move that has sparked debate among fans and developers alike. While all first-party Nintendo titles are expected on cartridges, third-party publishers now have the option of releasing their games on these cards, which essentially function as physical licenses directing players to download a digital version. Is this the beginning of the end for physical games?

The Game Key Card Controversy

The game-key card system requires players to insert the card to download the game, needing an internet connection. After the download, the card serves as authentication, allowing offline play as long as it's inserted. This approach is viewed by some as "lame" and "a little disheartening", as stated by industry veterans like Alex Hutchinson and Stephen Kick.

A Step Up from Empty Cases?

Despite concerns, game-key cards are arguably better than the current “code in a box” trend. Switch cartridges are proprietary, making them costly for publishers. Consequently, some sell empty cases with a single-use download code. Game-key cards offer collectors something tangible, allowing lending, selling, and trading, unlike redeemed codes.

Marvelous USA Stands Firm (For Now)

Amidst this shift, Marvelous USA, the publisher behind Rune Factory and Story of Seasons, is committed to releasing games on proper physical cartridges. CEO Ken Berry emphasized, "building up goodwill with our fans is always a good investment." Berry expressed his disappointment when opening a game case to find only a disc or game card, stating, "I never want anyone to have buyer’s remorse after purchasing one of our retail games."

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar, and Daemon x Machina: Titanic Scion are among the few third-party titles advertised to come on full cartridges. However, Berry clarifies that this decision wasn't easy, and future releases may not always follow suit. "Though I’d love to say all Switch 2 releases from us in the future will go the full ROM route, nothing is guaranteed," he noted, highlighting the financial considerations involved.

The Cost of Goodwill

Marvelous USA prioritizes adding value to their physical releases, going so far as to include creative inserts even if official manuals are no longer needed. Berry recalls discussions about excluding physical owner's manuals, but the team ultimately decided to include printed inserts, providing “more background material for the fans to enjoy.”

What Does the Future Hold?

Are game-key cards the unavoidable future, or can publishers like Marvelous USA sustain the tradition of full cartridge releases? The answer likely depends on consumer reception and sales data. Will collectors continue to champion physical media? Will the convenience of purely digital downloads win out? Only time will tell. In the meantime, keep an eye on the initial sales figures of Nintendo Switch 2 titles to see which format players prefer.

What are your thoughts on game-key cards? Share your opinions and expectations for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the comments below!

• Marvelous USA
• Nintendo Switch 2
• Rune Factory