In what’s sure to be a controversial decision, theNintendo Switch 2version of the critically-acclaimedSplit Fictionis not only not getting a true traditional physical release with the game fully on the cartridge, it’s not even getting a controversial game-key card. Nintendo previously established that not all physical releases for Switch 2 would feature game cartridges with the whole game on the cartridge, asGame-Key Cards that unlock the title for downloadare also an option.
Best Buycurrently features a listing for the Switch 2 version ofSplit Fiction, andthe game has a disclaimer on the box art that suggests the box will only have a download code for the game and no cartridge at all(viaNintendealon X andNintendo Life). The disclaimer is in French, but roughly translated reads:“Full game download. See back. GAME CARD NOT INCLUDED!“Nintendo has not confirmed if this information is accurate, but unless the cover is simply inaccurate, it appears to be the case.
Split Fiction Is The First Code-Only Switch 2 Physical Release
Digital Games, Game-Keys, & More Might Create A Lot Of Misinformation
TheSplit Fictionrelease indicates that Switch 2 physical releases will come in at least three different forms, not just two. The first one is a fully physical game on the cartridge, no download required, like theNintendo Switch 2 EditionsofThe Legend of Zelda: Breath of the WildandTears of the Kingdom.The second is a physical release with Game-Key Cards, where players will just get an “unlock” cartridge in the box, and the game will need to be downloaded.
The third and possibly final physical release model isa case with a download code in it and no cartridge, which appears to be the case forSplit Fiction.While this practice already existed on the original Switch, the introduction of Game-Key Cards raised the possibility that the Switch 2 would skip the option. The original Switch also featured some games with some content on the cart and some available as a download, but it’s not yet clear if this will re-appear with Game-Key Cards as an alternative.
Thefinal game-release method is just a purely digital purchase and downloadfrom the Nintendo Store. With over 70% of game sales now being digital, this has become the primary way people purchase and play games, but it’s nice to have physical releases as an option, and, unfortunately, it looks like those options are narrowing for the Switch 2.
Our Take: A Digital Code Is Worse Than A Game-Key Card
There’s Some Reason To Buy Physical If You At Least Get A Game-Key Card
Given thatSplit Fictionand other Nintendo Switch 2 releases may just get a download code in the box,it seems like getting a Game-Key Card in the box is slightly better. With just a download code, there is no option to resell the game if you choose to, and the game will still require a hefty download. Although Game-Key Cards add the inconvenience of needing the card inside the Switch to play, there’s still some semblance of game preservation attached.
Unfortunately, Switch 2 fans who want physical copies may be in trouble, as almost everythird-party title in Japan uses a Game-Key Cardinstead of a full physical release so far.
Since there will be some physical releases of games on the Switch 2 that just have download codes in the box, it makes little sense not to just purchase the game digitally, unless you are a devout game collector and desire a physical box for its art or place in your physical library. No matter the case, this news is sure to upsetSplit FictionandNintendo Switch 2fans who wanted a physical copy of the game.
