Nintendo Confirms Game Upgrades for Switch 2

Nintendo confirms that Switch 2 Edition cartridges contain both the original game and its upgraded version on a single physical card.

Earlier confusion stemmed from mixed messages by customer support representatives, with some suggesting these editions might not include the actual game.

In a clarification provided to Vooks, Nintendo confirmed all physical Switch 2 Edition copies contain complete games on cartridges, though noted some publishers may opt to sell download codes in physical packaging instead.

Nintendo's official statement reads:

"Physical Switch 2 Edition releases contain both the original Switch game and upgrade content on one cartridge. Alternatively, select publishers may distribute Switch 2 Editions as download codes in physical cases without game cards."

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

These upgraded editions feature technical improvements and new functionality. For example, Zelda titles now integrate with the Nintendo Switch App's Zelda Notes assistance system and introduce exclusive achievements on Switch 2.

Nintendo Switch 2 Game Packaging

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Nintendo recently clarified that certain Switch 2 game cards will function as download keys rather than containing full games.

These game-key cards provide only a license for digital downloads, requiring internet access to install the actual game. Packaging prominently displays this distinction on the front lower section for consumer transparency.

Titles like Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster utilize this format, while games including Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza ship on traditional cartridges. Cyberpunk 2077's massive 64GB version comes on a physical card.