Nintendo Switch 2 to Have Cross-Gen Cartridges

Just when you thought Nintendo’s cartridge situation couldn’t get more intricate, the Nintendo Switch 2 throws another curveball into the mix. Alongside Switch 2 Edition cartridges (Switch 1 games with Switch 2 upgrade packs on the cart), Game Key Cards (holds no game data and triggers a download), and Switch 2 exclusive cartridges (has game data and only playable on Switch 2), Nintendo has introduced a fourth type: cross-gen cartridges that can work on both the Nintendo Switch 1 and Nintendo Switch 2. Revealed through Marvelous‘ FAQ pages for Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma and Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar, this new cartridge type mirrors the convenience of Xbox Smart Delivery, offering a seamless way to play across generations without separate purchases.

A Two-for-One Special

Unlike traditional cartridges, this cross-gen cartridge contains both the Switch 1 and Switch 2 versions of the game on a red 64GB cartridge. When inserted, the cartridge automatically detects the console and boots the appropriate version, requiring no additional downloads. This is actually an improvement over Xbox Smart Delivery, which required a download for the Xbox Series X|S version of the game. This could be a standard for cross-gen Nintendo Switch 2 titles.

However, not all Switch 2 cartridges will offer this flexibility. Titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza are exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 and won’t function on the original Switch. While most Switch 1 games will work on the Switch 2, Switch 2 exclusives or enhanced editions (like Metroid Prime 4 Switch 2 Edition) won’t be backward compatible, making Rune Factory and Story of Seasons‘ cross-gen cartridges a unique case during this transitional period.

The More Options, The Better

The implications are significant for both developers and players. For developers, this approach could streamline production by reducing the need for separate SKUs for each console. For players, it ensures their purchase remains relevant across generations if they were to decide to upgrade their console later down the road. As the Nintendo Switch 2’s June 5th launch approaches, this cross-gen cartridge system could set a precedent for how Nintendo handles its generational transitions. While not all games will adopt this model—especially high-profile exclusives designed to showcase the Switch 2’s abilities—it’s a promising sign of Nintendo’s commitment to giving developers options that work for them.