Capcom’s decision to release a physical copy of Street Fighter 6 on the Nintendo Switch 2 has raised some concerns among collectors and players alike, particularly those who value physical game ownership. The Nintendo Switch 2 version of Street Fighter 6 Fighters Edition is reportedly launching with a Game-Key card and an expiring digital code for its Year 1 and Year 2 downloadable content.
As pointed out by Twitter user @Genki_JPN, the Japanese retail box for the game clearly states that the Year 1 and 2 DLC is distributed through a redeemable code inside the package. This code will expire two years after the game’s release, making the content time-limited. Notably, this is in addition to the base game being distributed as a Game-Key card rather than a traditional game cartridge.
Unlike conventional game cards, Game-Key cards do not include the full game data. Instead, they function as a physical license key that allows players to download the full game onto their system. Nintendo has confirmed this format for select titles on its upcoming hardware, noting that while an internet connection is only required for the initial download, the card must be inserted each time the game is played.
This release format has sparked some debate. Since the game and the DLC are essentially locked behind online requirements and time-sensitive codes, this somewhat defeats the purpose of a physical release.
Many are likely to see this decision as an unusual one for Capcom, particularly as full editions of games, including all DLC, have become a standard part of physical re-releases in recent years. The risk here is that if the DLC code is not redeemed in time, the Switch 2 version will effectively become a stripped-down version of Street Fighter 6, lacking the content that defines the Fighters Edition.
This approach may also pose challenges for future buyers, especially those acquiring pre-owned copies or who prefer to hold off on redeeming content. While digital redemption has become commonplace, attaching expiration dates to significant portions of paid content introduces added friction for players and raises questions about long-term access to game content.
