Nintendo takes a step forward with its new system for sharing digital games between consoles.

Nintendo has surprised many during the Nintendo Direct March 25 al announce a major change in the way digital games are managed on its Switch consoleIn an attempt to get closer to the convenience of physical formats, the company has detailed a new feature known as Virtual Game Cards, which will allow players exchange, lend, and transfer digital games between consoles in a more intuitive and flexible way. For more information about the digital game sharing on Nintendo, you can consult the related article.

This feature It will be available through an update arriving at the end of April., and it will not only affect the current Nintendo Switch, but will also be an integral part of the future Nintendo Switch 2 system. After a long time with limitations for sharing digital content, the new system promises a more practical solution, although not without certain conditions.

The new Virtual Game Cards will transform each purchased digital game into a standalone file, viewable from a new menu within the console's operating system. These cards They can be digitally “ejected” from one console and then “inserted” into another., replicating the operation of the old physical cartridges but in digital format.

Switch consoles without losing access

One of the most notable features of this new system is the Ability to transfer digital games between two Switch consoles without having to repurchase them or log into different accounts. To do this, both consoles must be linked to each other and connected via a local network the first time a game is transferred. Once this initial link is established, subsequent transfers can be made without having to repeat this process. This advancement is similar to what we found when share games on other platforms.

This system also opens the door to a more versatile use in homes where there is more than one switchFor example, it allows a family member to play on a different console without having to move accounts or redownload content. Although a connection is required the first time, virtual cards can later be transferred between paired devices on the same network.

Lending digital games as if they were physical

Another outstanding option is that of Temporarily “loan” a digital game to another user within a family group. This feature allows any title to be shared for 14 days with another member, as long as both devices are connected via a local wireless network. After that period, the game automatically returns to the original owner's console.. For more details on lending rules, see our guide on share games on steam.

This loan system It has a limit: only one game can be shared per member of the family group at a time., and the group cannot exceed eight users. The feature is presented as a modern reinterpretation of the cartridge swapping of the 100s, now in a XNUMX% digital version.

Guaranteed compatibility with Switch 2

Nintendo has confirmed that The Virtual Game Card system will also work on the new Switch 2 from day one.This suggests that the digital ecosystem between both consoles will be compatible, allowing you to maintain your library of purchased games without complications. Players will be able to continue their games and access their titles regardless of the console model they use..

The transition to a completely digital environment is something Nintendo has been gradually embracing. Virtual Game Cards appear to be a stepping stone between the physical experience and the convenience of the online format, offering a degree of flexibility without completely relinquishing control over digital licenses.

Centralized management and new possibilities

All digital games will appear organized as cards within a dedicated section in the console's operating system, which will make it easier to manage and view. From there, you can borrow, eject, and insert games on other consoles, as well as reorganize content in a clearer and more practical way.

In addition, the system eliminates the need to share passwords or entire accounts to access games on another console, which represents an improvement in terms of security and control of the digital libraryWith this change, Nintendo offers a safer alternative, especially for families with children who have different user profiles.

Limitations of the new system

While Virtual Game Cards offer multiple benefits, are not without limitationsThe loan can only be made locally, with no online option, at least in its initial version. Furthermore, The lender temporarily loses access to the game during the period in which it is being used by another member of the family group. It is also restricted to one game per user at a time.

On the other hand, Nintendo has clarified that This functionality will be completely optionalUsers who prefer to continue sharing their games across both their primary and secondary account systems will be able to do so without needing to use the new cards. This offers some flexibility depending on their preferred setup.

For the first time in a long time, Nintendo is committed to offering a digital experience that is similar to other more flexible platforms such as Steam.While their solution still has strict rules, it allows users a more convenient way to enjoy their games without relying on a single device or having to navigate the limitations of the current system.

With the arrival of this new feature, Nintendo appears to be moving toward a more open digital model, although still with its own particular style. Virtual Game Cards represent a way of combining physical tradition and the digital future, helping to Transacting players towards a more modern mode of consumption without completely disconnecting from the practices of the past.