The Switch 2 will be Nintendo’s most powerful console to date, matching other PC handhelds in terms of graphical capabilities. It’ll also have two kinds of cartridges: regular game cards with full titles and game-key cards that need the internet to download these experiences. Fans are split on this, with most preferring full game cards.
But as someone who has been playing the Steam Deck a lot lately, I feel that making the Switch 2 an all-digital console is a good option. Having plenty of games ready to play without having to switch cartridges around has been convenient. While there are probably games I want physically, it’s fair to say most of my library will be digital.
Is the Switch 2 an all-digital console?
The Switch 2 can play both digital and physical games.
At the time of writing, there’s only one variation of the Switch 2, and it can play cartridges from the get-go. Like all current gaming systems, this hybrid console can also play digital games, so importing your digital game library will be easy.
Physical cartridges are still essential for preserving games, but not everyone can be a gaming historian. Most people can only play games on certain days of the week, so going all-digital is their best option. Aside from convenience, not having physical games also reduces clutter around the household.
But having Valve’s Steam Deck has changed my priorities quite a bit. While I love Switch cartridges and going to stores for physical games, the Deck’s convenience made me realize that all-digital gaming libraries aren’t so bad. Playing games like Marvel’s Spider-Man or Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 without changing cartridges is pretty relaxing.
Is an all-digital library better than a physical one?
Not necessarily. While having an all-digital gaming library for my future Switch 2 is appealing, there are drawbacks. Companies like Ubisoft have proven that they can revoke your digital games without your consent. On the other side of that coin, Nintendo is making their first-party games cheaper through digital, and they can be lent to NSO family members through the Virtual Game Card system.
Physical games are also better when it comes to video game preservation. It allows fans to buy delisted titles like Marvel’s Avengers or the original version of Dragon Quest 11 without having to go through illegal hoops. You can also sell physical games to make some money back, which just isn’t an option for digital gaming.
With all that being said, convenience is king sometimes, and the Steam Deck has given me some incredible gaming experiences. Switching between games without putting in a cartridge or CD is just so easy. Having that experience on Switch 2 should give me the same comfort, especially with the company's silly sound effects when going through the UI.
Should we prepare for an all-digital future?
Hopefully not. While digital games are becoming more relevant and convenient, they should always be an option alongside physical titles. Even if this writer is preparing for an all-digital library for his Switch 2, others have shelves and cases ready for their future cartridges. Some gamers like to have a case filled with Switch games that they can bring around with their hybrid system.
Both forms of media are important, and gaming companies should try to appease both parties. Although digital games are the more mainstream option these days, audiences will always lean towards physical games for numerous reasons. These can range from visiting a game store to smelling CDs or cartridges to the simple joy of having a shelf full of physical games.
Physical isn’t dead, but don’t be surprised if future Switch 2 owners opt for an all-digital library. Life happens, priorities change, and having all-digital gaming libraries is great for those focused on handheld play. The number of confirmed game-key cards and slightly cheaper first-party titles makes that option easier.
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