Nintendo is finally giving digital gamers some of the perks of physical game ownership. The company just introduced Virtual Game Cards, a new feature for Nintendo Switch and the rumored Switch 2 that makes managing and sharing digital games feel a little more tangible.
With Virtual Game Cards, you can eject and load digital games between two linked systems—without the usual hassle of redownloading or juggling licenses. Even better? You can lend your digital games to members of your Nintendo Account family group for up to 14 days, making game-sharing easier than ever.
How It Works
From the HOME Menu, select Virtual Game Cards to browse your digital library. If you have two linked Switch systems, you can swap games between them by ejecting a title from one and loading it onto the other—just like a physical cartridge. Once a Virtual Game Card is loaded, you can play offline, and other accounts on the system can access the game too.
Game Lending, but Make It Digital
For the first time, Nintendo is letting digital game owners lend their games to family group members. By connecting two Switch systems via local wireless and internet, you can temporarily transfer a game to another player. They get two weeks to play before the game automatically returns—or sooner if they give it back. Their progress is saved, so if they borrow the game again (or buy it), they can pick up right where they left off.
Of course, there are some limitations. Certain Nintendo Switch Online exclusives and demos aren’t eligible, and both players need an active internet connection when lending or borrowing a game. But for anyone with a family group (or a second Switch system), this is a game-changer.
The Virtual Game Cards feature is rolling out in late April—so if you’ve ever wanted to pass a game to a friend without shipping a cartridge across town, now’s your chance.
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