The latest Nintendo Switch system update has rolled out, introducing Virtual Game Cards in preparation for the Switch 2 launch. This change has eliminated a method that allowed simultaneous online play of a single digital game across two consoles.
According to Eurogamer, Switch owners could previously use a primary console to access a game online while another user played the same game on a different Switch. The new Virtual Game Cards system has now blocked this workaround.
Players report that offline play of a single digital game copy is still possible. By navigating to user settings and enabling the Online Licenses option, a digital game can be played without a Virtual Game Card, provided it’s not in use elsewhere or the console is offline. Here’s the setting’s description:
"When enabled, this option allows purchased digital software to be played online even without the virtual game card loaded. However, only the Nintendo Account holder who purchased the software can play it, and other console users cannot. Virtual game cards enable software play regardless of this setting. Online licenses cannot be used simultaneously on multiple consoles, and an online license cannot be used concurrently with a virtual game card for the same title."
In essence, if one Switch is offline, the same game can still be played on two consoles simultaneously. Eurogamer confirmed this functionality. However, the ability to play the same game online at the same time has been restricted.
The change has sparked frustration among fans, with discussions on platforms like ResetEra and Reddit highlighting discontent over disrupted game-sharing setups. Many lament the loss of simultaneous online play, especially for family or group gaming sessions with titles like Splatoon or Minecraft.
For families, this update could double game costs, as multiple copies will now be needed for simultaneous play. While the change closes a loophole, its utility for players makes the backlash unsurprising.
This update comes just over a month before the Switch 2 launch, which will adopt the same system. The Switch 2 will also use Game-Key Cards, meaning many games will lack complete physical cartridges and require online downloads.
