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Nintendo Says It Has No Plans to Ditch Physical Games

R
•2 min read
Nintendo Switch cartridge beside a console, emphasizing physical game media

The story in short

Nintendo’s Latin America VP says the company isn’t moving to an all‑digital future, reaffirming its commitment to physical game releases.

On 12 October 2026, Bill van Zyll, vice‑president and general manager for Nintendo Latin America, told a YouTube interview that Nintendo "no plans to ditch physical" media. The comment came amid growing speculation that the console maker might follow Sony and Microsoft toward an all‑digital catalog.

What we know

All three reports from Eurogamer, Notebookcheck and Nintendo Life relay the same core message: Nintendo is not abandoning physical game releases in the near term. Van Zyll emphasized that the company considers regional consumer preferences, noting that many Latin American gamers still rely on disc and cartridge copies. The statements were made on the same day, confirming a coordinated press response.

Why it matters for gamers

Physical media remains a crucial part of the gaming ecosystem for several reasons. First, it preserves ownership; players can trade, resell, or lend cartridges without needing an online connection. Second, in regions with limited broadband, downloading large titles can be impractical. Finally, collectors value tangible editions, and Nintendo’s history of iconic packaging fuels that market.

With Sony planning to halt PlayStation disc production in early 2028 (see our Sony PlayStation guide) and Microsoft hinting at a similar move, Nintendo’s stance provides a rare haven for fans who still cherish physical copies.

What to do now

  • Check your library. If you own a Switch, make sure you have the latest firmware to enjoy both digital and physical titles.
  • Consider buying physical editions. They often include exclusive art cards, physical manuals, or special case designs that digital versions lack.
  • Stay informed. Follow Nintendo’s regional announcements, especially if you’re in a market where physical sales dominate.
  • Explore resale options. Local game stores and online marketplaces can be good places to trade or sell used cartridges.

For now, Nintendo’s message is clear: physical games are here to stay, at least for the foreseeable future.

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Sources

Verified by 3 trusted sources. This story was written from the reports below and checked against them before it was published.