Yoshi's Crafted World Offers Unique Cartridge-Free Physical Edition for Nintendo Switch in Japan

Nintendo continues to innovate both in game development and product offerings with the highly anticipated launch of Yoshi's Crafted World for Nintendo Switch.

Developed by Good-Feel and published by Nintendo, Yoshi's Crafted World is a charming platformer that lets players explore intricately designed levels assembled from everyday craft materials.

After months of speculation, Nintendo officially announced the game's global release date, confirming it will debut on 29th March 2019 for the Switch. Beyond the standard physical and digital releases common to Nintendo Switch titles, Japanese fans and collectors are being treated to a unique purchasing option.

In addition to the traditional boxed cartridge and the digital version available via the Nintendo eShop, Nintendo is offering a special physical case edition that does not include a game card.

Instead, this version contains a download code inside the packaging, providing the same game experience without a physical cartridge. According to official listings on the My Nintendo Store, all three versions—physical cartridge, digital download, and the cartridge-free physical case—are priced equally when purchased from Nintendo’s direct channels.

However, the cartridge-free case is exclusive to the My Nintendo Store and not available at other retailers.

This innovative approach is designed for fans who enjoy collecting physical cases or displaying them on shelves, but also appreciate the convenience of digital download games, eliminating the need to switch cartridges for play. This hybrid packaging solution is not unprecedented for Nintendo's Japanese market.

Similar offerings, featuring a download code within an empty physical case, have previously been introduced for major titles such as Pokémon: Let's Go and Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate.

This suggests Nintendo is responding to a growing segment of Switch owners who want to combine the benefits of digital game ownership with the traditional experience of physical collecting. Yoshi's Crafted World joins the extensive library of Nintendo Switch games available in multiple formats, enhancing consumer choice across both the eShop and retail channels.

With the Nintendo Switch continuing its sales momentum and expanding its audience, these kinds of flexible purchasing options demonstrate the company's commitment to catering to diverse gamer preferences. Players who wish to import this special edition should note that it is only available in Japan through the official My Nintendo Store, and purchasing from overseas may incur additional shipping costs.

Regardless of format, Yoshi's Crafted World remains a standout title in the Switch lineup for 2019, reinforcing Nintendo and Good-Feel’s reputation for producing accessible, creative, and visually striking platform games.

Yoshi's Crafted World Nintendo Nintendo Switch My Nintendo Store eShop Japan Pokémon: Let's Go Super Smash Bros. Ultimate