Nintendo has rolled out its new Virtual Game Card (VGC) system with the latest Switch update, offering users a unique feature: the ability to hide their game cards from prying eyes. This functionality is particularly useful for those who wish to keep certain titles private. As demonstrated by a user on X/Twitter, you can now conceal Virtual Game Cards from your acquired list on Nintendo's VGC portal, ensuring that others cannot see the games you've chosen to hide.
I personally tested this feature and successfully hid games such as Suikoden I&II HD Remaster and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. While these games still appeared in my list on my OLED Switch when installed or loaded, they were removed from the list once uninstalled. This gives you control over what's visible to others, even if they have access to your console.
Nintendo's new Virtual Game Card system is now live on the Switch, just ahead of the anticipated Switch 2 launch. To manage your hidden games, navigate to your games list via "Redownload Software." To view the hidden games, you'll need to go to the "Can't Find Software?" section and log into your Nintendo account. The same process applies on the Nintendo website, where hidden games are tucked away in a separate folder accessible through the "Can't Find Software?" option.
This feature can be particularly useful if you're sharing your console and want to keep certain games like Mortal Kombat or Doom out of sight, perhaps as a parental control measure. It might also come in handy if you have games you'd rather not display at social gatherings. However, note that the process to unhide and reload games for play is somewhat cumbersome. Additionally, even when hidden, the system still records your play activity, as I noticed when playing Suikoden I&II HD Remaster.
With the latest update, not only can you hide your Virtual Game Cards, but you'll also find redesigned icons and a new system transfer feature in preparation for the upcoming Switch 2. The update also closed a popular loophole for game sharing. For more detailed information on the new Nintendo Switch firmware update, you can read more here.
