Today's Nintendo Direct announcement of a new Virtual Game Cards feature for sharing games between systems has sparked both surprise and curiosity among fans. However, it has also led to questions, particularly about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, due to a specific footnote on an official Nintendo webpage.
The page detailing the Virtual Game Cards feature includes a footnote that reads:
**Compatible systems must be linked to a Nintendo Account to use virtual game cards. Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games can only be loaded on a Nintendo Switch 2 system. To move virtual game cards between two systems, you must pair the systems via local wireless and an internet connection, but only when pairing the systems for the first time. Up to two systems total can be linked per Nintendo Account.
The term "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games" is what has caught the attention of fans. While the mention of "exclusive games" aligns with the expectation that some titles will be available only on the Nintendo Switch 2, the phrase "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games" suggests something different. Given that the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to be mostly backwards compatible with the original Switch, this raises questions about what these "Edition" games might entail.
Some enthusiasts speculate that this could be a hint at "enhanced editions" of existing Switch games. These editions might offer new features or improved performance, specifically designed for the Nintendo Switch 2. If this is the case, it would explain why these games could not be shared with the original Switch, as they would require the enhanced capabilities of the new system.
However, not everyone agrees with this theory. Some believe that the mention of "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games" does not confirm enhanced editions but rather indicates that certain games, even if they are the same title, cannot be transferred from the Nintendo Switch 2 back to the original Switch using the Virtual Game Card feature. Others suggest that this could be a provision allowing third-party developers to release "Nintendo Switch 2 Editions" of games in the future, without implying any immediate plans.
In an attempt to clarify these points, we reached out to Nintendo. A spokesperson informed us that they would provide an answer on April 2, coinciding with the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct. So, fans will need to wait just a bit longer for official clarification.
