# Nintendo Gears Up for Switch 2 with New Switch 1 Update: Virtual Game Cards, Cloud Transfers, and More

## Nintendo Gears Up for Switch 2 with New Switch 1 Update: Virtual Game Cards, Cloud Transfers, and More

Nintendo is laying the groundwork for the highly anticipated Switch 2 with the release of the V20.0.0 update for the original Nintendo Switch. This update introduces several new features designed to enhance the user experience and pave the way for a seamless transition to the upcoming console. While the rumored June 5th release date for the Switch 2 might be inaccurate, the update clearly signals Nintendo’s preparations for its arrival.

One of the most significant additions is the introduction of **Virtual Game Cards**. This innovative system allows users to collect their digital software and DLC, effectively creating digital cartridges that can be “loaded” and “ejected” between compatible systems. A key feature of Virtual Game Cards is the ability to lend games to members of your Nintendo Account family group. While the lending period is capped at two weeks, and the game can be recalled if the borrower is online, this provides a new way to share your digital library. You can manage your game cards via the web, hide unwanted cards, and explore the intricacies detailed in Nintendo’s Virtual Game Card Guide.

However, the GameShare feature, which allows sharing over local wireless connections, will only function between Switch 2 consoles. Attempting to use it between two original Switch systems will not work.

For users who require broader access to their digital games across multiple systems, Nintendo is introducing **Online License Settings**. When enabled, this feature allows players to access their digitally purchased games and DLC on any Switch console, provided they are connected to the internet. This circumvents the limitations of the Virtual Game Card system.

Of course, the most exciting aspect of the update for those planning to upgrade is the new **”System Transfer to Nintendo Switch 2″** option. Located within the System menu in System Settings, this feature provides two methods for transferring your data. You can either perform a local system-to-system transfer when your Switch 2 arrives, or leverage a new cloud-based option.

The cloud transfer allows users to upload their system transfer data to Nintendo’s servers, making it readily available for download onto a Switch 2. This is particularly useful for those gifting or selling their old Switch. However, a significant caveat is that utilizing the cloud transfer requires a factory reset of the Switch 1. Furthermore, the data is only stored in the cloud for one year if it isn’t downloaded.

Interestingly, Nintendo allows users to cancel a Switch 2 cloud transfer and revert the data back to a Switch 1. However, as detailed in Nintendo’s system transfer FAQ, if the transfer originated from a specific model (e.g., a Switch OLED), the data can only be restored to another console of the same model.

With these new features, Nintendo is not only enhancing the functionality of the original Switch but also preparing its user base for the eventual transition to the next generation. The Virtual Game Cards, Online License Settings, and robust system transfer options offer flexibility and convenience, suggesting that Nintendo is taking user experience seriously as they approach the highly anticipated launch of the Switch 2.