Today's Nintendo Direct announcement of the new Virtual Game Cards feature for sharing games between systems has sparked both surprise and curiosity among fans. This feature allows users to move games between their Switch systems, but it's a footnote on an official Nintendo webpage that's stirring up questions, especially regarding the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
The webpage 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 phrase "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games" is what's causing the buzz. While the mention of "exclusive games" aligns with what we already knew about games designed solely for 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, fans are left wondering what these "Edition" games could entail.
One theory floating around suggests that these "Edition" games might be enhanced versions of existing Switch titles, offering new features or improved performance exclusively for the Switch 2. This would mean that these games, while similar to their Switch 1 counterparts, would be distinct enough to require a Switch 2 to run properly, explaining why they can't be shared back to the original Switch.
However, other fans speculate that this might not confirm anything new, but instead indicates that some or all Nintendo Switch 2 games can't be transferred backward to the Switch 1, even if they're essentially the same game. Another possibility is that this footnote simply leaves room for third-party developers to release "Nintendo Switch 2 Editions" of their games in the future, should they choose to do so.
In an effort 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, just a little more patience, and we'll have our answers soon.
