The latest Nintendo Switch system update has rolled out, introducing new features such as Virtual Game Cards in anticipation of the upcoming Switch 2 launch. However, this update has also closed a popular method for playing the same digital game online across two systems simultaneously. As highlighted by Eurogamer, Switch users could previously leverage the primary console to access a game and play it online while the game's owner was logged into another Switch. Unfortunately, this loophole has been sealed with the introduction of the Virtual Game Cards system.
Despite this change, users have found a workaround to play a single copy of a digital game by going offline. By navigating to the user settings in your profile and enabling the Online Licenses option, you can still enjoy a digital game without the Virtual Game Card, provided it's not being played elsewhere or the Switch in use is offline. The setting's description reads:
"If this option is enabled, purchased digital software will be playable while the console is connected to the internet, even when the virtual game card for that software isn't loaded to the console. However, when using an online licence, only the user signed into the Nintendo Account that was used to purchase the software will be able to play it; it will not be playable for other users on the console. Your virtual game cards can be used to play software regardless of this setting. Online licences cannot be used on multiple consoles at the same time. The online licence and virtual game card for a software title cannot be used at the same time."
In essence, if one Switch is offline, you can still play the same game simultaneously across two Switches. Eurogamer confirmed this workaround through testing. The significant change is that the loophole allowing simultaneous online play has been closed.
The gaming community, particularly on forums like ResetEra and Reddit, is expressing frustration over this change. Many users are upset that their previous game-sharing setups are no longer functional, especially the ability to play online at the same time. This is particularly impactful for families and groups who enjoyed playing games like Splatoon or Minecraft together. The new system means families with multiple kids wanting to play the same game will now need to purchase additional copies, effectively doubling the cost.
This update comes just over a month before the launch of the Switch 2, which will also implement the same system. Additionally, the Switch 2 will utilize Game-Key Cards, where many games will not have the entire physical game on the cartridge and will require an online download to play.
