As preorders for the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 go live in the US, gamers have been quick to snap up consoles and game listings across major retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart. But it’s not just the hardware getting attention—there’s plenty of buzz about game formats, pricing, and upgrade options. Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know.
Switch 2 Physical Game Prices: Not $90 After All
Contrary to popular online rumours, physical Nintendo Switch 2 games will not cost $90. One of the biggest myths circulating on Reddit, YouTube, and even Google summaries suggested inflated prices—but the truth is more reassuring.
Key Facts:
Standard pricing for major titles like Mario Kart World remains at $80, whether physical or digital.
Retailers and the game’s official website confirmed this price even before preorders started.
For example, Donkey Kong Bananza is listed at $70 for both digital and physical versions.
This pricing model is in line with the original Nintendo Switch and other modern consoles.
(Source: Ars Technica)
Game-Key Cards: The New Normal for Third-Party Games
A noticeable change with the Switch 2 is the rise of Game-Key cards—especially for third-party physical game releases. These are not traditional cartridges that hold the game data themselves.
What is a Game-Key Card?
A plastic card you insert into the console to trigger a download of the game from Nintendo’s servers.
You’ll still need to keep the card inserted to play—just like a normal physical copy.
No actual game data is stored on the card itself.
Pros:
Can be resold, lent or gifted, unlike digital-only downloads.
Still gives physical media lovers something to hold and collect.
Cons:
Not ideal for slow internet connections or limited storage systems.
Doesn’t help with game preservation or offline play.
These cards are now clearly labelled in Japan and are expected to dominate US third-party game releases too, based on box art previews.
Games like “Cyberpunk 2077” and “No Sleep for Kaname Date” seem to be exceptions, as they do not carry the Game-Key disclaimer.
(Source: Nintendo Everything)
Upgrade Packs: Two Types, Two Price Points
Nintendo is introducing a structured system for Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Packs. These packs enhance original Switch games to better suit the new console, and some even offer new content.
Two Types of Upgrade Packs:
Visual-only upgrades
Games: Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom
Upgrade Cost: $10
Visual + content upgrades
Games: Kirby and the Forgotten Land, Super Mario Party Jamboree
Upgrade Cost: $20
Prices for full Switch 2 Editions = original game price + upgrade pack price
| Game | Original Price | Upgrade Pack | Total Switch 2 Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breath of the Wild | $60 | $10 | $70 |
| Tears of the Kingdom | $70 | $10 | $80 |
| Kirby and the Forgotten Land | $60 | $20 | $80 |
| Mario Party Jamboree | $60 | $20 | $80 |
Tip: Buying used or discounted Switch games and adding an upgrade pack can save you money.
Final Thoughts: What This Means for Gamers
The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to offer more flexible options for game collectors and players. While Game-Key cards are a shift from traditional game cartridges, they do provide a middle ground between digital downloads and full physical releases.
And the pricing clarity—especially in the face of confusing online speculation—is a welcome relief for fans hoping to avoid sticker shock. Plus, the new upgrade pack system ensures that existing Switch owners can enjoy enhanced versions of their favourite titles without needing to repurchase entire games.
Sources:
Ars Technica: Nintendo Switch 2 Game Pricing and Preorder News
Nintendo Everything: List of Game-Key Card Releases
Nintendo Official Site: Upgrade Pack Info