Pokemon Pokopia Will Be First Nintendo-Published Title To Get Game-Key Card

Just weeks after announcing Pokemon Legends: Z-A, The Pokemon Company revealed a new, more relaxed game called Pokemon Pokopia, slated for release in early 2026. Unlike typical games, Pokopia will only be available physically as a ‘Game-Key Card,’ which some Switch 2 fans are unhappy about – with some even saying they won’t buy the game because of this.

Nintendo Japan recently announced a new way to purchase the game Pokopia using ‘Game-Keys,’ and showed an example on their YouTube channel. These Game-Keys are different from digital downloads because fans can buy and resell them. However, some players who prefer physical game cartridges feel this goes against Nintendo’s previous commitment not to release games in that format. While Koei Tecmo’s Omega Force developed the game, meaning Nintendo didn’t directly break their promise, many fans still see it as a contradiction.

If you’re still using key cards, I’d be happy to buy it secondhand. I’ve purchased every Pokémon game for the past 21 years.

— Miguel Ángel (@Mikeranjero98) November 11, 2025

They really made Pokopia the face of game key cards 💔💔

— Caleb 🅱️. (@Clbgolden) November 11, 2025

Seeing people defending Pokopia.

— TheREALDrtre81 (@Drtre81) November 11, 2025

My honest reaction when I figure out that Pokopia is going to be a Game-key card

— Pokémon Daily Post💫 (@PokeDailyPost) November 12, 2025

With the new Switch 2, Nintendo is also releasing Game-Key Cards to help keep game sizes manageable. These cards don’t store the game itself—they simply contain a digital license that lets you download the game directly to your console. Unlike buying a game digitally, you need the Game-Key Card inserted to play, but you can also transfer it to someone else if you decide to sell or give away the game.

Get ready for Pokémon Pokopia, launching on March 5, 2026 for the Switch 2! Nintendo will share a brand new trailer on Thursday, November 13th, showcasing more than 10 minutes of gameplay. For all the latest details about the game, check out our comprehensive guide to Pokémon Pokopia.

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2025-11-12 19:09