The decision to release "Star Wars Outlaws" on the Switch 2 via Game-Key Card was based on performance considerations rather than financial ones

Recently, Star Wars Outlaws premiered on the Nintendo Switch 2, but instead of traditional cartridges, Ubisoft chose the Game-Key Card. This card doesn't store any game data; it only provides a digital license, requiring players to download the game onto the console's storage.

The use of a Game-Key Card for Outlaws sparked discussions on social media. Digital Foundry's John Linnerman speculated about whether manufacturing costs of the 64GB Switch 2 cartridge were an issue.

Rob Bantin, Ubisoft's audio architect, clarified that the choice was based on performance requirements, not costs. He stated that the Snowdrop engine, which powers the game, relies extensively on disk streaming, and the Switch 2 cards did not meet their performance needs.

Bantin added, "If the game had been developed specifically for the Switch 2 from the outset, the situation might have been different. However, it was initially designed for platforms with SSDs like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, before adapting it for Switch 2 later on."

He noted their leadership made a wise decision regarding this approach. However, Nintendo's introduction of Game-Key Cards has raised concerns, especially regarding the future of game preservation. Since these cards depend on servers, once server support ends, like with the Wii U and 3DS eShops, the games might become inaccessible.

For a more in-depth understanding of developer concerns about Game-Key Cards and preservation, you can explore further discussions here.