Today's Nintendo Direct announcement of the new Virtual Game Cards feature, which allows sharing games between systems, has sparked both surprise and curiosity among fans. However, it's also prompted questions, particularly about the Nintendo Switch 2, due to a footnote on an official Nintendo webpage.
The page detailing how Virtual Game Cards work is mostly clear, but a footnote at the bottom has caught everyone's attention. It states:
**Compatible systems must be linked to a Nintendo Account to use virtual game cards. Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games can only be loaded on a Nintendo Switch 2 system. To move virtual game cards between two systems, you must pair the systems via local wireless and an internet connection, but only when pairing the systems for the first time. Up to two systems total can be linked per Nintendo Account.
The phrase "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games" is causing confusion. While it's understood that the Nintendo Switch 2 will have exclusive games not playable on the current Switch, and that it's mostly backwards compatible with Switch 1, the term "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" raises questions. What exactly does it mean?
Some fans theorize that this might be a hint at "enhanced editions" of existing Switch games, tailored for the Switch 2 with added features or improved performance. These editions would be exclusive to the Switch 2 and not shareable with the original Switch due to their enhanced nature.
However, there are other theories. Some believe this doesn't confirm anything new, but rather indicates that some or all Switch 2 games might not be transferable back to the Switch 1 through the Virtual Game Card feature, even if they are the same game. Another possibility is that this footnote simply leaves room for third-party developers to release Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of games in the future.
We reached out to Nintendo for clarification but were informed by a spokesperson that we'll have to wait until April 2, the date of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, for an answer. So, hang tight, everyone!
