Slow sales of this Nintendo Switch 2 game could show limited appeal of Game-Key Card format

Western fans of tactical RPGs celebrated the announcement of Disgaea 7 Complete for the Switch 2. A version of Disgaea 7 was available for the original Switch but without some Japanese-exclusive DLC. However, supporters weren't as enthusiastic once they learned that the release would use a Game-Key Card. That resentment may be translating to slow sales of a Collector's Edition pre-order.

The NIS Online Store serves as a marketplace for many of the publisher's titles. Among the new listings is the Disgaea 7 Complete: Ewwdo Edition. The special release includes the Deluxe Edition for Disgaea 7 and several physical collectibles. With the store tracking quantities, a NeoGaf forum poster noticed that no buyer had purchased the Switch 2 game. These configurations are limited in number and normally sell out quickly.

A Game-Key Card is a cartridge that contains a small amount of data. With only expensive 64 GB media available, publishers see it as a cost-effective alternative. Buyers have to download most of the files before playing. Gamers can still sell the game or use it on different consoles, but game preservationists disapprove of the format. Other fans who enjoy stacking retail cases with traditional game cards inside are also unhappy.

Most physical third-party Switch 2 games are taking advantage of the Game-Key Card option. However, there are exceptions, like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition and Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma. The developers of both titles have expressed concerns that not every release is appropriate for the format. Strong sales of Cyberpunk 2077 may confirm there is still demand for cartridges that don't rely on internet connectivity.

Comment sections are full of resentment about Disgaea 7 Complete shipping on a Game-Key Card. Even so, it's also an expensive purchase for mostly already existing content. Switch owners would have preferred a cheaper upgrade path.