The next generation of consoles is shaping up with the imminent release of the Nintendo Switch 2, scheduled for late 2023. A standout title in its initial lineup will be Hogwarts Legacy, which will arrive on the system following its resounding success during the previous year. However, the way the game will be marketed raises questions about the future of the physical format in the video game industry.
If you want to have your game on the cartridge, you won’t have it here
With a growing trend towards reducing physical formats, many studios have opted to simplify production, leading to the emergence of what has been termed the Game-Key Card. This new type of cartridge for Hogwarts Legacy on the Nintendo Switch 2 will be practically empty and will require a 24 GB digital download to access the full gaming experience. This means that players will have to rely on an Internet connection, which could cause inconveniences.
The game box, which will feature a distinctive design with a red band, will serve more than just as a physical means to play; it will only act as a proof of purchase. Unlike traditional editions, the new cartridge will not contain the entire code of the video game, forcing users to keep it inserted in their console to play. This commercial strategy represents a blend of the good and the bad of both physical and digital formats, leaving consumers in a delicate position.
Meanwhile, the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2 promises not only a new gaming experience but also a significant change in the way video games are distributed and consumed. In this context, developers will need to find a balance between digital access and the appreciation for the physical format that many players still value.
