Street Fighter 6 on Switch 2: Digital Only Despite Physical Packaging
The wait for the Nintendo Switch 2 is almost over. This console not only offers new technical possibilities but also new distribution models. Capcom has announced that Street Fighter 6 will be one of the launch titles for the Nintendo Switch 2. Unfortunately, there’s a catch with the physical release.
Street Fighter 6 will be sold in both a physical version and a digital version. But if you buy the game in a box, there will be no traditional game card included. All you’ll get is a “Game Key Card.” This doesn’t contain any game data—just a license key that lets you download the game from the Nintendo eShop.
Physically packaged, but completely digital: Capcom’s download model sparks criticism
Street Fighter 6 will release on June 5, 2025 for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the form of a “Game Key Card.” While it’s a physical card, it holds almost no data. It’s not a game cartridge, but just a type of key to activate the game. This key allows you to download the game from the Nintendo eShop. Therefore, an internet connection is absolutely required.
Additionally, the “Year 1–2 Fighters Edition” includes a second download code for the fighter DLC. This code must be redeemed no later than June 5, 2027, or you lose access to the bonus content. So if you buy the game later or lose the code, you may permanently lose access to this content. That’s why it’s recommended to redeem the DLC as soon as you buy the physical version.
Many fans are criticizing these practices in online forums and on social media. They are unhappy with the combination of a seemingly physical product that is just a download. To many, it feels like a misleading label. The expiring DLC code is also seen as unfriendly to consumers—especially from the perspective of collectors or second-hand buyers.
The Japanese box says the Years 1-2 DLC for Street Fighter 6 Fighters Edition is a code in a box that expires 2 years from release. This is on top of the base game being a Game-Key card. (Pointed out by @DoesItPlay1)
— Genki✨ (@Genki_JPN) May 26, 2025
On other platforms you also get the base game on disc and a… pic.twitter.com/1QeFikffgQ
Technical benefits and exclusive modes – is that enough compensation?
Even though Street Fighter 6 is only available digitally, the version on Nintendo Switch 2 does offer some new content developed exclusively for Nintendo’s new hardware. This includes the modes “Gyro Battle” and “Calorie Contest“, which utilize the motion control of the Joy-Cons—a kind of fitness mode that Capcom says is meant to appeal to casual players.
Also, if you have the Year 1–2 Fighters Edition, all characters are immediately available. So unlike the 2023 release, you won’t have to wait two years for all the characters to arrive. And you don’t need to buy anything extra—at least while the code is still valid.
Nintendo has not commented in detail on the Game Key Card initiative, but many observers see this as a new form of “hybrid physical distribution”: Packaging exists more for shelf appeal than for actual functionality—a trend that can also be seen in other Switch 2 games like the upcoming Resident Evil 4 Remake.
Conclusion – Street Fighter 6 on the Switch 2
With Street Fighter 6, Capcom delivers a high-quality title for the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. However, the distribution model is causing confusion among many fans. An empty package, mandatory downloads, and time-limited content raise concerns about long-term usability and customer friendliness. While the game offers new content and features on Nintendo Switch 2—many are left with a bitter aftertaste.
Hey, I’m Kilian, but online you’ll probably know me as “Tux1243.” I've been part of the team for almost two years now, always trying to keep you in the loop with the latest and coolest gaming news. I also have a huge passion for doing deep dives and detailed analyses of entire game series and franchises. I love getting to the bottom of things and exploring the little details and backstories that make game worlds so fascinating.
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