Nintendo is shaking things up with the Switch 2 by introducing “Game-Key Cards” for several third-party games. Unlike regular physical game cards, these cards don’t hold the full game. Instead, they act as keys to download the game online. This change has left many collectors disappointed.

One major release, RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army, will also be distributed using this method. Limited Run Games announced it’s managing a Collector’s Edition of the game, priced at $249.99 USD, which also includes a game-key card instead of a full physical copy. This has drawn frustration from fans, especially as the standard edition will also be a game-key card release.
Online, reactions have been mixed. Many fans express their dissatisfaction, questioning the value of spending high amounts for a key rather than a tangible item. The announcement has triggered discussions about the future of game collecting. Some wonder if this move may influence other companies to follow suit, pushing consumers towards a more digital-focused approach.
Historically, physical copies of games were the standard. As recently as a decade ago, collectors cherished physical editions. In contrast, recent market trends show a significant rise in digital purchasing. A report from Statista indicates that in 2022, digital game revenue surpassed $14 billion, showcasing a shift away from physical ownership.
Experts suggest that this trend may redefine how we think about game collecting and ownership. “We’re moving towards a digital ecosystem where the concept of ownership is more about access than possession,” says gaming analyst Jennifer Lewis. “Players need to adapt to this change as the industry evolves.” This shift doesn’t seem to be temporary; with technology advancing, the lines between digital and physical continue to blur.
The Collector’s Edition of RAIDOU Remastered, while unique, raises questions about the future of special game editions. As video games evolve, so will the ways we collect and enjoy them.
For more details about Limited Run Games and their releases, check their official page here.
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