Nintendo Switch 2 Cartridge Size Leaked: 64GB Game Cards Reported as Only Physical Option

Nintendo Switch 2 Cartridge Size Leaked: 64GB Game Cards Reported as Only Physical Option Ever since Nintendo confirmed development of the Nintendo Switch 2, the gaming industry has been abuzz with speculation regarding its hardware capabilities, launch window, and software support.

Now, credible leaks stemming from an incident involving developer Arc System Works have provided significant new insights into one aspect of the upcoming console: its physical game card format.

The leaked data suggests that Nintendo is moving forward with a streamlined physical media strategy for the Nintendo Switch 2, with 64GB cartridges appearing to be the exclusive standard for physical releases. Background: Nintendo Switch 2 and Game Card Evolution The original Nintendo Switch, which launched in 2017, allowed publishers to choose from multiple cartridge capacities, including 8GB and 16GB options.

This flexibility helped manage production costs for indie studios and AAA developers alike.

However, according to verified information recovered from Arc System Works' recent internal data breach, the Nintendo Switch 2 may not offer the same range of choices. Industry sources reviewing the data leak—first reported by necrolipe—note that three game formats were identified in the information: - [DL] Digital game only - [64GB] Game card with full game - [POTION] Codename for game-key card This aligns with previous claims that, at present, 64GB physical cartridges are the only option available to developers for Nintendo Switch 2 physical releases.

For many studios, particularly those working with larger game assets or aiming for global distribution, a higher-capacity card could be advantageous.

However, increased storage typically brings higher production costs, and limited size options could create challenges for smaller and midsized publishers seeking affordable physical distribution. Sources suggest that this constraint may also be influencing the rise of 'game-key cards,' which likely act as physical retail products that provide a download code instead of a full ROM on the cartridge—a trend seen increasingly on the current Nintendo eShop. Arc System Works Plans Exclusive Switch 2 Title The same data breach has also offered a glimpse into Arc System Works’ development roadmap.

The documents reveal that the developer is working on a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive title, codenamed 'Watari,' which is tentatively scheduled for a November 2025 release.

Notably, 'Watari' is being developed with Unreal Engine 5.4, signaling a commitment to cutting-edge visuals and performance for Nintendo’s next-generation hardware. As for the Nintendo Switch 2 itself, some of the leaked materials hinted at an intended launch as early as March, but further corroboration is limited and timing remains unconfirmed by official channels. Conclusion While Nintendo has yet to make a public statement on these particulars, the documents surfacing from the Arc System Works leak mark a pivotal development in the understanding of Nintendo Switch 2's physical and digital game distribution.

With only 64GB game cards reportedly on the table and prominent developers already preparing exclusive titles, the landscape for physical Nintendo publishing is poised for significant change.

Stay tuned to authoritative sources for verified updates as more details emerge in upcoming Nintendo Direct presentations and official communications.

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