Final Fantasy 7 Remake Switch 2 90GB pre-load reminds gamers of Game-Key Card disadvantages

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade pre-loads are live on the Switch 2, ahead of its January 22nd release date. While Square Enix had already announced the over 90GB+ download, gamers are scrambling to find storage space on the console. As microSD Express cards are becoming pricier in some regions, the added expense is straining budgets.

Why FF7 Remake doesn't use a cartridge

Ideally, the RPG would ship on a standard cartridge, preserving the handheld’s 256GB internal drive. Unfortunately, its file size exceeds the 64GB limit of the physical media, leaving Game-Key Cards as the alternative. With barely any data on these releases, buyers also have to monopolize internet connections.

Unlike other Switch 2 games, Square Enix chose not to compress Final Fantasy 7 Remake. Similar amounts of free space are required on the PC and the PS5. Game Director Naoki Hamaguchi explained that the studio refused to compromise on visual quality. Modern lighting effects took priority, allowing the graphics to compare favorably with those on other platforms.

Digital Foundry praised the game's demo, labeling it one of the better-looking titles on the Nintendo handheld. Nevertheless, the polished presentation occupies over a third of the system’s available storage.

Other limitations with Switch 2 specs also prompted developers to rely on a Game-Key Card. The read speed of cartridges can’t match the console’s internal UFS drive or external media. Otherwise, stuttering during gameplay or slower loading times were risks.

The Switch 2 storage crisis

With fans having to sacrifice installed titles, some are calling for another solution. Recently, there were signs that Nintendo might endorse cheaper, smaller-sized cartridges. That may convince more publishers to reject Game-Key Cards. Even so, the media wouldn’t accommodate large games like Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade.

The demand from AI data centers is driving up memory and storage prices. Japan is already seeing external NAND flash, like microSD Express cards, affected. An updated Switch 2 with a higher capacity drive may be inevitable, but Nintendo will have to consider rising costs.