How Virtual Game Cards Work on NIntendo Switch and Switch 2 – IGN

Ahead of the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo went ahead and shook up how they present games that are purchased online through the Nintendo eShop. Virtual Game Cards are here to stay, and they bring with them a new set of features, limitations and confusing terminology. Let’s break down exactly what Virtual Game Cards are and how they work for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 consoles.

Using Online Licence to share a game – Once you enable Online Licence as shown in the video, your other Switch can play the loaded Virtual Game Card, while your primary switch can still access the same game (after doing an online check). However, both consoles can’t launch the game at the same time while they are connected to the internet. 

If there are no online components, you can get around this by switching the wifi off (or turning on airplane mode) on the second Switch with the Loaded Virtual Game Card, as it can still access downloaded games with the Virtual Game Cards loaded.

For help with Nintendo Switch 2, including how how to transfer system data from a Switch 1 to a Switch 2, or how to start a Nintendo Family Group, check out our written guide on IGN!

https://www.ign.com/wikis/nintendo-switch-2

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro

00:26 – What is a Virtual Game Card?

01:15 – Virtual Game Card Menu

02:13 – How To Load to Another Console (Pair Consoles)

03:18 – How To Lend to Family Group Members

04:44 – Loading and Ejecting Virtual Game Cards

05:33 – Enable Online Licence