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Nintendo Switch 2 Rumors: Smaller, Cheaper Cartridges Incoming?
Potential game-changing cartridge sizes could mean big savings for indie publishers.
Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:49am
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Nintendo's rumored smaller, more affordable game cartridges for the Switch 2 could revolutionize the physical game market, especially for indie developers.Vancouver TodayRumors are swirling that Nintendo may be planning to introduce smaller and more affordable game cartridges for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console. While Nintendo has remained tight-lipped, industry experts and gamers are speculating that this move could significantly reduce production costs for indie publishers, potentially leading to more physical releases of smaller games.
Why it matters
The potential introduction of smaller, cheaper cartridges could be a game-changer for the Nintendo Switch ecosystem. It would allow indie developers and publishers to offer physical versions of their games at a lower cost, making it more accessible for players. This could lead to a wider variety of physical game options, benefiting both consumers and the overall health of the Nintendo Switch platform.
The details
The rumors started when a tweet from ININ Games hinted at Nintendo's plans for two new smaller cartridge sizes. While ININ later removed the claim, it has sparked widespread speculation. Currently, the Nintendo Switch uses cartridges with up to 64GB of storage, which can be costly for smaller games. Smaller cartridges could save publishers $5 to $10 per unit, a significant cost savings. Additionally, the rising costs of RAM memory due to high demand from AI projects could further incentivize Nintendo to roll out these new cartridge options.
- According to analysts, RAM costs have already skyrocketed this year and could continue to rise, making the timing perfect for Nintendo to introduce smaller, more affordable cartridges.
- Nintendeal, a trusted source, confirms that smaller capacity Switch 2 game cards are in production, though chip shortages may delay their widespread availability.
The players
ININ Games
A retro and arcade game publisher that initially hinted at Nintendo's plans for smaller cartridge sizes.
Nintendo
The Japanese video game company that has remained tight-lipped about the rumors, leaving gamers and industry experts speculating.
TrendForce
An industry analyst firm that has predicted the rise in RAM memory costs due to high demand from AI projects.
Nintendeal
A trusted source that has confirmed the production of smaller capacity Switch 2 game cards.
What’s next
Despite the reduced capacity, these smaller cartridges will still come at a premium due to rising material costs. Additionally, Game-Key Cards, an alternative to physical cartridges, aren't going anywhere just yet.
The takeaway
The potential introduction of smaller, more affordable cartridges for the Nintendo Switch 2 could be a significant development for indie publishers and gamers alike. While the details remain uncertain, this rumor highlights the ongoing evolution of physical game distribution and the need for cost-effective solutions in the ever-changing video game industry.
