Nintendo clarifies how Switch 2 Edition games will work, confirms code-in-a-box option

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Nintendo confirms that physical, cartridge-based Switch 2 Editions of games do not require extra downloads.

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A bit ago, Nintendo confirmed that Switch 2 Digital Game-key Cards can be shared and resold like any other cartridge. Now the company has answered another burning question, this time regarding Switch 2 Editions of games. Rumor has it that Switch 2 Editions were essentially the original Switch 1 game + a next-gen upgrade pack that had to be downloaded.

Nintendo has clarified that this isn't the case: The Switch 2 upgrade pack is built right into the cartridge and comes pre-loaded on the Switch 2 Game Card.

The info was confirmed in a statement to Vooks:

"Physical versions of Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games will include the original Nintendo Switch game and its upgrade pack all on the same game card (i.e. they are exclusively Nintendo Switch 2 game cards, with no download code).

"Alternatively, some publishers may release Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games as download codes in physical packaging, with no game card."

Based on this, we know that physical Switch 2 Editions of games come in two types:

1. Physical box with game card cartridge - Full game + upgrade pack on cartridge, no download required.
2. Physical box with a code in it - No cartridge, comes with paper slip with download code for the game.

If a Switch 2 Edition has a cartridge, then that cartridge will be one the new Switch 2 Game Cards, which are red and use new microSD Express storage for better gaming experiences (faster loading, faster in-game response times through better asset streaming, etc).

Nintendo will also sell these Switch 2 Editions online as full digital downloads. Gamers who already own the games can buy the upgrade packs separately for $9.99 a piece.

Find more info on Switch 2 Editions here.

The Switch 2 Editions of games are being sold at a $10 premium compared to their last-gen counterparts, bringing the total MSRP of these games to $70.