Buying Switch 2 cartridges is going to be hell for customers. Numerous third-party publishers have decided to put their titles on game-key cards, which require internet access to download the game. What makes this confusing is that consumers might see cross-gen games on Switch 1 that don't need internet, making them wonder why these changes were made in the first place.
Fans already had to wrap their minds around the differences between full-blown game cards and game keys that require an internet connection to download and play the software. The boxes will indicate which games require Wi-Fi to play, which should help reduce confusion in theory.
However, customers might get confused when they see a Switch 2 cartridge needing internet, and then see the same game on Switch 1 does not require the same requirement. Some fans pointed this out when Atlus’ Raidou Remastered made headlines for being a game key card on the Switch 2 but a full game card on the original Switch. Naturally, fans will buy the Switch 1 version, even if it doesn’t run as well or look as good.
This issue is caused by the expenses incurred with these new cartridges. It’s much more expensive to port these titles and put them on full game cards. Putting digital licenses on game key cards and then having players download them over Wi-Fi is cheaper for the publisher and requires less work.
It’s almost a miracle that games like Cyberpunk 2077 will be complete on a Switch 2 cartridge, and as a launch game at that. Unfortunately, this also explains why smaller games like Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster are on a game-key card, even if it doesn’t take up that much space. Due to the costs of these cartridges, we wouldn’t be surprised if more third-party games opt for key cards, even if they aren’t great for preservation.
Considering how consumers might get confused by full game cards and game key cards, it almost makes us wish they would still release codes in boxes, like in the original Switch. That’s a waste of plastic, since fans can buy these games digitally through the eShop. At the same time, it’s less confusing and upfront, being just a code sold through physical means, which is what most consumers want.
Hardcore Nintendo fans will prefer buying Switch 2 cartridges, even if it means needing wi-fi to download supposedly physical games. They’ll even prefer it to having game codes in a box, since they can still transfer the game to a friend’s console, even if that means needing an internet connection to play the game.