Nintendo is shaking up digital game ownership with a new feature for the Switch and upcoming Switch 2: Virtual Game Cards. Launching in late April, this update allows digital games to be loaned out much like physical cartridges, offering more flexibility for Nintendo Account family groups.

With this system, users can digitally “eject” and “load” games between two linked devices. A new management screen will give players control over which Virtual Game Cards are active, making it easy to share and organize digital libraries.

Key highlights of the feature include:

• Game sharing between two systems under the same Nintendo Account.

• Game lending via local wireless communication to other family group members.

• Pre-loading options after initial setup to streamline access on both devices.

• One-game lending limit, with a two-week borrow period.

• After the lending period ends, the game automatically returns to the original account holder.

• Borrowers retain their save data, allowing progress to resume if the game is borrowed again or purchased later.

This move blurs the line between physical and digital ownership, giving Nintendo fans more ways to enjoy and share their game collections.