More Nintendo Switch 2 games may use Game-Key Cards after hopes for cheaper cartridges fade
For some buyers, internet-dependent Switch 2 Game-Key cards are a reason to steer clear of the handheld. In August, there was optimism that advancements in flash storage technology could lead to more physical games. Unfortunately, Macronix, which produces Switch cartridges, recently gave a disappointing update.
It's believed that publishers avoid regular Game Cards for the Switch 2 due to their high price. Some reports suggest that the media costs $16 and are only available in 64GB capacities. Macronix appeared to have a solution by combining MLC NAND and 3D NAND technologies. The new cartridges would potentially be cheaper to manufacture and ship in smaller and larger sizes.
Nintendo Patents Watch on Bluesky discussed a quarterly financial report released by the Taiwanese company. The Macronix chairman cited research and development delays, which have impacted its Switch 2 plans. However, the manufacturer does have a more hopeful outlook for the "ROM business" in 2026.
Patents Watch explains that Rohm and an unnamed party produce media for Switch 2 games. It was expected that Macronix would transition to the latest Nintendo console. The social media presence suspects that the company is also struggling with skyrocketing NAND flash media costs.
Speed limitations with Switch 2 cartridges may lead to more digital games and Game-Key Cards. Final Fantasy 7 Remake director Naoki Hamaguchi revealed that the physical media could cause performance issues. The console's internal storage and microSD Express cards actually outperform the cartridges. Square Enix also can't fit the complete game on the standard Game Cards.
The current situation on the Switch 2 seems dire for physical collectors. While these buyers can assemble a collection of Game-Key Cards and cases, most game data sits on Nintendo's servers. To install and play the titles, they demand an internet connection and a large download. From the game preservation perspective, that raises several red flags.
