Nintendo has rolled out a major firmware update for the Switch console, introducing several new features designed to bridge the gap between the original system and its upcoming successor. With the Nintendo Switch 2 scheduled to launch on June 5th, this update prepares current Switch owners for the transition while adding new functionality to the eight-year-old console.
Virtual Game Card System Transforms Digital Libraries
The most significant addition in the v20.0.0 update is the new Virtual Game Card system, which fundamentally changes how digital games are managed. Digital software, DLC, and select free titles are now represented as virtual game cards that can be loaded and ejected between up to two Nintendo Switch systems. This feature allows users to lend games to others within the same Nintendo Account family group, creating a digital sharing system that mimics physical game lending.
Key Features in Nintendo Switch Update 20.0.0:
- Virtual Game Cards: Digital games can be "loaded" and "ejected" between two systems
- GameShare: Local multiplayer sharing from Switch 2 to other nearby systems
- System Transfer to Switch 2: Both local and cloud-based options available
- Online License Settings: Play purchased games while online without loading virtual game cards
- User Verification: PIN or account sign-in required for Virtual Game Card menu access
- Multiple save data transfer: Select and transfer multiple saves simultaneously
- Updated user icons: Including new Donkey Kong design from upcoming Switch 2 games
GameShare Enables Local Multiplayer Between Generations
The update introduces GameShare functionality, though with some limitations. This feature will allow compatible software to be shared from a Nintendo Switch 2 to nearby systems for local multiplayer gaming. However, Nintendo has specified that the Switch 2 must initiate the GameShare process, and the feature cannot be used between two original Switch consoles (including OLED and Lite models). This means current Switch owners will need to wait until the Switch 2 launches to take advantage of this feature.
Online License Settings Provide Flexible Access
To complement the Virtual Game Card system, Nintendo has added Online License Settings. When enabled, this option allows users to play their downloaded software or purchased DLC while connected to the internet, even without having the virtual game card loaded on their system. This provides greater flexibility for accessing digital content across multiple devices within the same Nintendo Account ecosystem.
System Transfer Options Prepare for Switch 2 Migration
Perhaps most importantly for those planning to upgrade, the update adds comprehensive system transfer capabilities. Users can now transfer their data from a Switch to Switch 2 using local communication once they have both consoles. For those who might sell or trade in their original Switch before acquiring a Switch 2, Nintendo has implemented a cloud-based transfer option that uploads system data to a dedicated server.
Cloud Transfer Comes With Important Caveats
The cloud transfer option comes with significant warnings. Once system data is uploaded to Nintendo's server, the original Switch will be reset to factory settings. Nintendo recommends only using this feature if users are certain they'll complete the transfer on a Switch 2, as the data will only be stored for up to one year. For those who plan to keep using their original Switch until they acquire a Switch 2, Nintendo suggests waiting and using the local transfer method instead.
User Interface and Icon Updates
The update also brings visual refreshes to the Switch interface. Some user icons have been updated, including a new Donkey Kong icon that matches the character's design in upcoming Switch 2 exclusives like Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World. Additionally, the Nintendo eShop and Nintendo Switch News icons on the HOME Menu have received color changes.
Enhanced Save Data Management
The update improves save data management by allowing multiple save files to be selected and transferred simultaneously in the Transfer Your Save Data menu. This streamlines the process of moving game progress between systems, which will be particularly useful for those planning to migrate to the Switch 2.
User Verification Adds Security
To protect access to the new Virtual Game Card menu, Nintendo has added User-Verification Settings. This security feature allows users to restrict access by requiring a PIN or Nintendo Account sign-in, helping prevent unauthorized lending or transfers of digital games.
With just over a month until the Switch 2's release, this substantial update demonstrates Nintendo's commitment to creating a smooth transition between console generations while adding valuable features to its existing hardware.