It’s been a never-ending stream of confusion and misinformation when it comes to the Nintendo Switch 2. With Nintendo adopting a radio silence approach, it’s fallen on the public to figure out all of the specifics of Nintendo’s vague information, and a new wrinkle has just been thrown into the mix. According to Marvelous, developers of the Rune Factory series, the upcoming physical release of Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma for Switch 2 will contain both the Switch 1 and Switch 2 versions on its cartridge.
As spotted by Wario64 and VGC, Marvelous has posted an FAQ on its official website detailing what the upgrade pack for Switch 2 will contain. Strangely, the Limited Edition will not include the Switch 2 cartridge, but according to the information listed, the “Switch 2 Edition” will contain both versions of the game on the same cartridge. The FAQ reads:
“The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is a red 64GB game card that includes, in full, the Nintendo Switch game and the Upgrade pack. There’s no need to download the full game: simply insert the card into either a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 console, and the correct version will launch automatically.”
Marvelous does note that updates might be available in the form of patches, but that the full game is there for those without an internet connection. It also sort of confirms what I suspected from the wording Nintendo has been using with its physical Switch 2 editions. It seems these cartridges will function on both the Switch 1 and Switch 2. That would mean something like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is a bit redundant, as there is no real reason to buy the Switch 1 cartridge when the Switch 2 version will contain it.
Now, there is every chance that this stipulation is limited specifically to Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma’s physical Switch 2 edition. Maybe Marvelous sprung for the biggest cartridge specifically to include both versions to avoid any hassle. In some weird scenario, I could see Nintendo not including both versions on its cartridges as it might want to push people to buy both or stick with the digital upgrade for games they already have. It also brings up some questions about Switch 2 game cards, which are nearly identical to the original Switch cards but simply missing a notch.
Whatever the case, if you’re planning on getting Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma for Switch or Switch 2, you’d be best served by simply grabbing the Switch 2 physical edition. That way, you won’t need to pay extra whenever you do decide to upgrade your console.
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Written by Peter Glagowski
Peter has been a freelance gaming and film critic for over seven years. His passion for Nintendo is only matched by the size of his collection.
