Today's Nintendo Direct announcement of a new Virtual Game Cards feature for sharing games between systems has sparked both excitement and curiosity among fans. However, a footnote on an official Nintendo webpage has led to some intriguing questions, particularly about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
The webpage detailing the Virtual Game Cards feature includes a footnote that has caught everyone's attention:
**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's causing the buzz. While the mention of "exclusive games" aligns with our understanding that some titles will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, the concept of "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games" is less clear. Given that the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to be mostly backwards compatible with the original Switch, what exactly does a "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" entail?
Some fans theorize that this could be Nintendo's way of hinting at "enhanced editions" of existing Switch games. These enhanced versions might include new features or improved performance tailored specifically for the Switch 2. If true, it would explain why these editions couldn't be shared with the original Switch, as they would be fundamentally different from the versions available on the current console.
However, not everyone agrees with this interpretation. Some speculate that the footnote might simply indicate that certain Switch 2 games won't be transferable back to the original Switch, even if they are the same game. Another possibility is that this footnote leaves room for third-party developers to release their own "Nintendo Switch 2 Editions" in the future.
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 confirmation.
In the meantime, the speculation continues, and the gaming community eagerly anticipates more details about the Nintendo Switch 2 and its new features.
