Naoki Hamaguchi, the director behind several Final Fantasy titles, has suggested that traditional cartridges could become increasingly rare on Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 console, citing hardware limitations that restrict data read speeds.
In an interview with Wccftech, Hamaguchi explained that the issue lies not with the cartridges themselves but with the console’s internal specifications. “Personally, I feel that the loading speed issue for the game cartridge is more about the hardware spec of the Nintendo Switch 2,” he said.
Like Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, the Switch 2 version of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth will be distributed via Game-Key Cards, which require users to download most of the game’s files even after purchasing the physical copy. Hamaguchi indicated that Nintendo will likely prioritize this distribution method going forward.
According to the director, “Nintendo will put more effort into popularizing the Game-Key Card format which again is a really fantastic idea for us developers.” He noted that developers could play a role in helping Nintendo explain the benefits and trade-offs of the new format to players.
While Hamaguchi foresees a limited future for 64GB cartridges, semiconductor maker Macronix is reportedly developing improved physical media using a combination of MLC NAND and 3D NAND technology. Whether this innovation will address read speed bottlenecks remains uncertain as developers prepare for more demanding Switch 2 titles.
Source: Wccftech