# Nintendo’s Virtual Game Cards Arrive, Bringing Game Sharing and a Closed Loophole

## Nintendo’s Virtual Game Cards Arrive, Bringing Game Sharing and a Closed Loophole

Nintendo has rolled out a new update for the Switch, introducing Virtual Game Cards as a new method for sharing digital games. While this feature offers a potentially more convenient way to lend out your favorite titles, it also closes a previously exploited loophole that allowed simultaneous online play with shared games, as reported by *Eurogamer*.

Prior to the introduction of Virtual Game Cards, the only official way to share digital Switch games was by logging into your Nintendo Account on another Switch console and downloading the game. This system, now accessible under “Online License Settings,” inadvertently allowed the game owner and a friend to play the same digital game online concurrently. This feature was popular among players who wanted to share games with friends and family while still enjoying online multiplayer.

The latest update doesn’t eliminate the original sharing system entirely. You still have the option to share games via the “Online License Settings.” However, the key difference is that simultaneous online play using this method is no longer possible. This change will undoubtedly disappoint players who relied on this unintended feature.

Virtual Game Cards offer a new approach to game sharing. Instead of granting full access to your account, you create and distribute these virtual cards, giving access to specific games. While details are still emerging on how this system will be fully implemented, Nintendo has confirmed that Virtual Game Cards won’t be limited to management solely on the Switch or the rumored “Switch 2.” Players will also be able to manage their Virtual Game Cards through a dedicated website, accessible at [https://accounts.nintendo.com/portal/vgcs](https://accounts.nintendo.com/portal/vgcs). This online portal promises added convenience, allowing users to manage their shared games even when away from their console.

Ultimately, Nintendo’s introduction of Virtual Game Cards represents a shift in its digital game sharing strategy. While the new system offers a potentially streamlined method for sharing games, the closure of the simultaneous online play loophole will likely be met with mixed reactions from the Switch community. Whether the convenience of Virtual Game Cards outweighs the loss of this feature remains to be seen.