What's Happening?
Japan's National Diet Library has announced that it will not include Nintendo Switch 2 Game-Key Cards in its preservation efforts. The library, which houses over 9,600 video games, stated that the Game-Key Cards do not qualify as content for preservation because the games' data are not stored on the physical media itself. These cards act as authentication keys, allowing users to download games onto their consoles. Concerns have been raised about the format's reliance on internet connectivity and the availability of Nintendo's eShop, especially following the closure of the Wii U and 3DS eShops in 2023.
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Why It's Important?
This decision by the National Diet Library highlights ongoing debates about digital preservation and the challenges of archiving digital content. The exclusion of Game-Key Cards raises questions about the future of game preservation, especially as more titles move to digital-only formats. For consumers and preservationists, this underscores the importance of ensuring access to digital content over time. The decision also reflects broader concerns about digital ownership and the potential loss of cultural and historical artifacts in the digital age.
