What's Happening?
Square Enix's Final Fantasy 7 Remake for the Nintendo Switch 2 will be released as a game key card, requiring a download of up to 90GB. This decision is due to the Switch 2's maximum game card size of 64GB, which is insufficient for the game's large file size. The game will occupy approximately 34% of the console's 256GB storage capacity, prompting criticism from game preservationists and discussions about the responsibility of Square Enix and Nintendo in addressing storage limitations. The use of game key cards has been a common practice among third-party publishers on the Switch 2.
Why It's Important?
The release of Final Fantasy 7 Remake on Switch 2 highlights the growing issue of storage capacity in modern gaming consoles. As games become larger and more complex, the need for adequate storage solutions becomes increasingly important. This situation raises questions about the balance between technological advancement and consumer accessibility. The reliance on game key cards and external storage options may affect consumer satisfaction and influence purchasing decisions. Additionally, the debate over responsibility for storage limitations could impact future industry standards and practices.
What's Next?
Consumers may need to invest in additional storage solutions, such as microSD Express Cards, to accommodate the game's size. The gaming industry may continue to explore alternative methods for game distribution and storage management. Discussions about the responsibility of developers and console manufacturers in addressing storage challenges are likely to persist, potentially influencing future hardware and software developments.