While the Switch 2 is controversial for its price and technical choices, good news is rekindling collectors' interest. Some publishers will still offer 100% cartridge-based games. A rare promise at a time when physical versions are losing their content.
Between a sharply rising price and lackluster technical performance, the Switch 2 promises to be a mixed launch. Initial feedback points to an dated chip, close to that of an RTX 1050, and a CPU deemed disappointing. This hasn't stopped Nintendo from posting ambitious forecasts: 15 million consoles and 45 million games sold by March 2026. Despite the controversy, pre-orders are excellent, especially in Japan.
In this tense context, many players are wondering if the new generation will remain faithful to the spirit of the Switch 1, particularly regarding the format of physical games. Complete cartridges are becoming rare, replaced by editions that simply include a code to activate. A trend that worries those who want to keep their games without depending on a connection or an online server. Especially since current video game preservation models do not guarantee long-term access to digital content.
Limited Run's numbered games on Switch 2 will always contain the full cartridge
It is in this context that Limited Run Games, a publisher well-known to collectors, provided a clear answer. At PAX East 2025, a marketing representative confirmed to Boss Rush Network that all games in their numbered range on Switch 2 will contain the entire title on the cartridge. No additional download will be necessary to play, even in several years. A choice that goes against the current trend of “semi-physical”.
Be careful, however, this promise only applies to titles published directly by Limited Run in its main collection. Other games, made in partnership with publishers like Atlus, may still take the form of cards with a simple code to activate. The game RAIDOU Remastered is a recent example. This hybrid system, increasingly common, disappoints those who still buy boxed versions to keep them. Even if the publisher's position may change, this announcement gives hope to those who defend physical games as a sustainable medium.
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