Retailer says Nintendo policy limits Switch 2 cartridge changes
Video Games Plus says a restriction prevents publishers from moving games to cartridges after a Game-Key Card debut, but the reason remains unclear.
Canadian retailer Video Games Plus has said Nintendo has a policy barring publishers from issuing cartridge editions of Switch 2 titles that initially launch as Game-Key Cards. The retailer made the claim on social media, but the reason for the reported restriction remains unclear.
The store subsequently clarified its now-deleted post, saying there were reasonable grounds for the policy. It rejected suggestions that Nintendo was blocking publishers arbitrarily and expressed hope that the company would resolve the issue limiting format changes after launch.
Game-Key Cards often need substantial downloads before a game can run, whereas traditional Game Cards hold most of the game data. Video Games Plus has encouraged publishers to choose cartridges, a format favored by collectors concerned about preserving games and retaining ownership rights.
Publishers have changed formats before release. ININ moved R-Type Dimensions III to a cartridge before its launch following criticism of Game-Key Cards, although the Switch 2 version ultimately cost buyers more than initially announced.
