The physical media strategy for the Nintendo Switch 2 has been a point of contention since the console's launch, with developers and collectors alike frustrated by the high cost of full game cards and the prevalence of digital download codes in physical boxes. A recent announcement from a game publisher, followed by a swift retraction, has ignited rumors that Nintendo may be preparing to introduce smaller capacity game cartridges. This move could potentially lower the barrier for physical releases, offering a middle ground between expensive 64GB cards and mere download keys.
Reported Physical Media Options for Nintendo Switch 2:
- 64GB Game Card: A full physical cartridge containing the game. Reported to be expensive for developers (estimated ~USD 16 per unit).
- Game-Key Card: A physical card that contains only a download code for the game, requiring an internet connection and console storage space.
- Rumored New Options (Unconfirmed): Smaller capacity cartridges, speculated to be 16GB or 32GB, potentially offering a lower-cost alternative for physical releases.
A Publisher's Announcement and Swift Correction
The rumor mill was set in motion on December 19th when retro game publisher ININ Games announced that its upcoming title, R-Type Dimensions III, would receive a physical release for the Switch 2. The company attributed this decision to Nintendo having "announced two new smaller cartridge sizes." This statement suggested a significant shift in Nintendo's physical media policy. However, later that same day, ININ Games issued a correction, removing the specific claim and clarifying that "There has been no official announcement or confirmation from Nintendo concerning cartridge storage capacities." Despite the walkback, the company confirmed the physical release would proceed, with a EUR 10 price increase to cover the higher production costs associated with a full game card versus a download code.
The High Cost of Physical Media on Switch 2
The core issue driving this speculation is the reported expense of producing physical games for the Switch 2. Industry reports and analyst commentary have consistently pointed to cost as the primary factor. Currently, developers are said to have only two official options: a full 64GB game card, which one report estimates costs around USD 16 per unit—a significant expense that cuts into margins—or a "Game-Key Card," which is essentially a box with a code that directs users to a digital download. The lack of intermediate, lower-capacity options has made it financially prohibitive for many developers, especially smaller studios and indie publishers, to justify a full physical release.
Leaks Point to Production Amid Industry Challenges
Following the publisher's retracted statement, further leaks have emerged to give the rumor more substance. On December 21st, a known leaker, Nintendeal, claimed on Bluesky that smaller capacity Switch 2 game cards are indeed in production. However, the leaker added a significant caveat: widespread availability faces delays due to industry-wide component shortages, often attributed to soaring demand from the artificial intelligence sector. Furthermore, the leaker noted that even these smaller cards may not be substantially cheaper due to rising memory chip (NAND) costs. This suggests that while new options may be coming, they may not provide the dramatic cost relief developers have been hoping for in the current market.
Key Timeline of Events:
- 2025-12-19: ININ Games announces a physical Switch 2 release for R-Type Dimensions III, citing "new smaller cartridge sizes" from Nintendo. They later retract this specific claim but confirm the physical release with a EUR 10 price hike.
- 2025-12-21: Leaker Nintendeal claims smaller capacity cards are in production but face delays and high costs due to component shortages.
- Current (2025-12-21T13:20:06Z): No official confirmation or statement from Nintendo.
The Potential Impact on Developers and Players
If confirmed, the introduction of 16GB or 32GB cartridges would represent a meaningful, if imperfect, solution. For developers, it would provide a tangible middle ground. Games that are too large for a cost-effective key card but don't require the full 64GB could finally get a proper physical release. For players and collectors, it reinforces the value of physical ownership in an increasingly digital marketplace. The ability to hold a game, resell it, or play it without relying on a download server remains important to a segment of the audience, and more physical releases would cater to that demand.
An Unclear Future Amid Official Silence
As of now, Nintendo has not commented on these rumors. The entire situation underscores the delicate balance console manufacturers must strike between supporting physical media and managing production economics. While the desire for more affordable physical options is clear, global supply chain issues and memory pricing present formidable obstacles. The saga of the Switch 2's physical media is ongoing, and the potential arrival of smaller cartridges is a development worth watching, even if its benefits may be tempered by the realities of the broader tech industry.