In a bold move that’s sure to bring relief to physical media collectors, Marvelous USA has confirmed that its upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 releases will not require any downloads. This announcement comes as a welcome change in a landscape where physical media for modern consoles has become increasingly uncertain.
The Growing Concern Over Physical Media
In recent years, the future of physical game releases has been a topic of growing concern among gamers. With many companies opting to release hard copies of games that don’t actually contain the full game, but instead only offer a digital download key, physical media collectors have been left disappointed. This issue has been especially highlighted with the Nintendo Switch 2’s use of “Game-Key Cards” — cartridges that contain only a software key for a digital download, not the full game.
When Nintendo first revealed the Switch 2 on April 2, it was confirmed that many third-party physical releases would rely on Game-Key Cards. This news left some fans feeling uncertain about the future of owning full, physical copies of games on the new console.
Marvelous USA’s Game-Changing Announcement
Amidst the controversy, Marvelous USA stepped up and clarified its approach. Taking to Bluesky, the company reassured Switch 2 owners that its physical editions would include the complete game on the cartridge — no downloads required. This is a major win for fans who value owning a full, physical copy of their games, and it sets a positive precedent for other studios to follow.
We’ve seen some confusion about our upcoming #NintendoSwitch2 releases.
Our physical editions for Rune Factory, STORY OF SEASONS, and Daemon X Machina in the West will feature the full game on the cartridge.
Hope that helps clear things up. 👍
— Marvelous USA (@marveloususa.bsky.social) April 25, 2025 at 1:50 AM
Which Games Will Be Affected?
Marvelous USA has already confirmed that at least three of its upcoming titles will feature full games on physical cartridges:
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Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma
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Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar
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Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion
What’s even more exciting is that Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma’s Switch 2 cartridge is cross-compatible with the original Switch, meaning it includes both the Switch and Switch 2 versions of the game. This could pave the way for other titles to follow suit, although, so far, not many games have confirmed this feature.
Why This Is a Big Deal for Collectors
For collectors, the move to provide full games on physical cartridges is a breath of fresh air. It reaffirms that not all studios are leaning into the digital-only future. Marvelous USA’s decision ensures that Switch 2 owners will get a true physical experience — not a partial game that relies on an internet connection to be fully enjoyed.
Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for the Future?
While it remains to be seen how other developers will handle physical media for Switch 2, Marvelous USA’s approach stands out as a clear commitment to the physical gaming community. For Switch 2 owners, it means they can continue to enjoy the tactile experience of owning complete physical copies of their favorite titles.
With titles like Rune Factory and Daemon X Machina leading the charge, it’s exciting to think about what other upcoming games might follow this model. As the industry moves forward, this move by Marvelous USA may just be the catalyst needed to bring back the full physical experience that so many gamers have been longing for.