Overview of Nintendo Switch 2 Game Cases
- Nintendo Switch 2 game cases will showcase wraparound art on their spines.
- This design marks a shift from the traditional red spines seen in Nintendo Switch 1 packaging.
- Game-Key Cards for Switch 2 titles will feature a disclaimer indicating the need for downloading additional data to play.
Recent updates shared across social media have revealed that the Nintendo Switch 2 game cases will introduce a new aesthetic, characterized by wraparound artwork on the spines. This innovative design stands in contrast to the red spines of the original Switch boxes. Additionally, titles released on Game-Key Cards will include labels that indicate the necessity for players to download supplementary data to enjoy the games fully.
The global debut of the Switch 2 is set for June 5, but the rollout of pre-orders in the US has encountered delays. These setbacks are attributed to the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on imports, compelling Nintendo to postpone US pre-orders initially scheduled for April 9. The company emphasized that this adjustment will not affect the anticipated worldwide launch. Customers in Canada and other regions with established pre-order timelines are not impacted, making the timeline of US pre-orders and any potential price alterations a matter of anticipation.
While certain upcoming Switch 2 titles have sparked dissatisfaction among fans due to their initial pricing, the redesigned game cases may alleviate issues experienced with the previous console. As highlighted by Nintendeal on Twitter (and reported by Nintendo Life), the new game cases will abandon the familiar red spines for a more cohesive look, where the front cover art extends seamlessly around to the spine, presented with bold white lettering indicating the game’s title. This redesign was showcased at the Nintendo Museum in Kyoto, where an immersive exhibit is welcoming fans ahead of the console’s launch.
A Fresh Look: Elimination of Red Spines
CONFIRMED: Nintendo Switch 2 cases will no longer feature red spines and instead it looks like the box art wraps around Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza game boxes on display at the Nintendo Museum in Kyoto (photo from @MrSheika) pic.twitter.com/RdbUUmXgSp — Nintendeal (@Nintendeal) April 5, 2025
In addition, new packaging for the Switch 2 will feature red accents, and Game-Key Cards will adopt a similar color scheme to distinguish them from the previous console’s packaging. Notable titles such as Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster and Street Fighter 6: Years 1–2 Fighters Edition will utilize Game-Key Cards at launch. These cards will clearly indicate the amount of extra data required for game installation—like the 11GB needed for Bravely Default as per various retailer listings.
Retail packaging details indicate that special Nintendo Switch 2 Edition titles—such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild—will grant access to both the Switch version of the game and an upgrade pack. However, it remains unclear whether this upgrade is provided through the Game-Key Card or as a digital voucher. Furthermore, it’s uncertain if the Champions’ Ballad DLC will be part of the Switch 2 edition of Breath of the Wild, leaving fans eager for clarity on these details as the launch date approaches.