Summary
Nintendo clarifies the confusion surroundingSwitch 2Edition games, attempting to clear the misconception that the physical editions would come with a download code. It’s been a rollercoaster few weeks for Nintendo as the company has seen the highs of announcing theSwitch 2console, as well as the lows of facing backlash over pricing concerns and a delay of pre-orders in certain regions.
As many seemed to theorize, Nintendo confirmed that a number of its Switch games would be getting a special version for the upcoming console.Switch 2 Edition games not only get a performance boost, likeMetroid Prime 4: Beyond, but some are also getting new content to go along with it. Players can pick up the Switch 2 Edition of games, or purchase an upgrade for those who already have the base game, though there has been plenty of confusion over what the physical edition of these games would include inside the box.
Since the announcement, there has been quite a bit of discourse in the community regardingphysical editions of Nintendo Switch 2 Edition gamesand whether they would include a download code for the new content. In a new statement toVooks, a representative from Nintendo clarified that these physical editions would be Switch 2 game cartridges that include the game and upgrade pack all on the same card. There’s no download code for Nintendo or Nintendo-published games included as they’re all on the same game card.
However, Nintendo did warn that some publishers may not opt to go this route and could utilize a download code instead of a game card inside the physical packaging, perhaps like theupcomingElden Ring Tarnished Edition. Part of the concern from fans over the potential inclusion of a download code instead of an actual game cart is that it prevents players from sharing, selling, or trading in the new game, and instead just leaves the original Switch version in its place.
Nintendo Switch 2
The successor to 2017’s Nintendo Switch continues down the same path as its predecessor, providing a hybrid experience that supports both home and handheld gaming. Launching on July 15, 2025, with games like Mario Kart World, the basic Nintendo Switch 2 bundle comes with the console, Joy-Con 2, straps for the controller, a dock, an AC adapter, an HDMI cable, and a Joy-Con 2 grip.
