There are two types of Nintendo Switch software: a retail version and a downloadable version. The contents of a game will be the same no matter which version you play.

Retail version

The retail version of a software title is the physical copy that you can buy in shops, etc.

To play the retail version of a software title, remove the game card from the packaging and insert it into the Nintendo Switch console.

→How to use a game card

Downloadable version

You can purchase the downloadable version of a software title in Nintendo eShop on the console or on the Nintendo homepage, etc. You can download the software to the Nintendo Switch console or to a microSD card.

Distinct features of downloadable software

• You don't have to worry about losing your game cards.
• You can play different software without having to switch out the game cards.