The announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2, scheduled for release on June 5, 2025, was marked by some expected technical improvements. Yet, it's one of the few new software features that could fundamentally redefine the way we consume video games on Switch. Nintendo is introducing virtual game cards. More than a minor change, this is a complete reorganization of the digital library, designed to facilitate sharing within a household and streamline the use of multiple consoles. This new feature meets a real need in the Nintendo ecosystem, especially for those who have been relying on digital media for several years. In this article, we answer all the practical questions about virtual cartridges. Feel free to click on the section that interests you in the summary to be redirected there directly.
Summary
What is a virtual game card?
Until now, owning a digital game on Switch meant downloading it from the eShop and then accessing it via the installed software icon. With Virtual Game Cards, Nintendo is introducing an interface directly inspired by physical cartridges. Each game purchased online is now represented by a identifiable digital card, located in a new section of the console.
Unlike a physical cartridge inserted into the console, these Virtual Cards do not require any physical support. They are directly linked to your Nintendo Account and also centralize associated downloadable content, such as DLC. This allows, for example, to install a game with all its additional content in a single operation.
What are the fundamental differences with physical cartridges?
Although physical cartridges involve production, transportation, and distribution costs that virtual cartridges don't, from a pricing perspective, nothing changes. Games purchased as virtual cards cost the same as their classic digital versions on the eShop. They will even be subject to Nintendo's promotions only, and won't experience the positive effects of competition from retailers. Too bad, though, because this doesn't mean you'll gain any purchasing power.
Virtual cartridges do have one advantage, however. They don't require any travel or waiting time to play them. Once purchased, they are immediately available on your console, ready to be used or shared, like any digital game.
Another important change is that these cards can now be loaned to other members of a Nintendo Family Group for a period of two weeks. It is also possible to transfer a game from one console to another, for users who own two Switches – a long-awaited feature. Other than that, everything is exactly the same.
How do I use a virtual cartridge?
To use these cards, it all starts by creating a Nintendo Family Group. This operation cannot be performed from the console itself, but requires logging into the official Nintendo website. Once logged in with the main account, you must create a group, then add members of your household or friends to it. Each member keeps their own profile, but can then borrow games made available by other members of the group.
Next, you must ensure that all consoles involved are up to date and connected to the same Wi-Fi network. This step is essential, as transferring a game or borrowing it can only be done when the devices are on the same local network. This will therefore not work if you want to share a game with a family member or friend who does not live under the same roof.
How to lend a game with a virtual cartridge?
Once these conditions are met, the loan is done from the virtual game card interface, where you can choose the title you want to share, select a member of the family group, and then launch the operation. On the other hand, the person receiving the game just has to accept the loan and download the card to their own console. The process is a bit long the first time, especially when setting up the family group, but once you've done that, everything becomes faster and more intuitive.
The way it works is simple: while a game is on loan, its owner can't play it, but they can take it back at any time. Remember that the loan period is two weeks, which sometimes doesn't give the second user enough time to finish a game. It's not yet known whether the operation can be repeated, and if so, how many times in a row, or if there is a cooling-off period between loans.
Can you resell a game in a virtual cartridge?
Virtual Game Cards are permanently linked to your Nintendo Account. While you can temporarily lend them to members of your family group, it is impossible to permanently transfer them to another user, whether through sale or donation. Unlike physical cartridges, which can be resold second-hand or loaned without restriction, virtual cards remain strictly personal. This limitation is a deliberate choice by Nintendo to regulate the use of digital content and prevent its uncontrolled distribution. So if reselling or trading is part of your habits, the physical format remains the only one compatible with this type of practice.
Are virtual cartridges compatible with the Switch, Switch Lite, and Switch OLED?
Nintendo has thought about ensuring a smooth transition. Since the April 30 update, all Switch consoles, including the first generation, can use virtual game cards. All you have to do is update the system via the settings, then connect to the internet. The sharing and lending features are then activated, provided that the console is linked to a Nintendo Family Group and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the other device with which you wish to exchange games. This means that it is entirely possible to lend a game from your Switch 2 to a Switch 1, or vice versa, as long as the right conditions are met.
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