Story perspectives

Japan's NDL Struggles to Preserve Nintendo Switch 2 Games

8/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Japan's National Diet Library (NDL) stated that Nintendo Switch 2 game-key cards cannot be preserved due to lack of game data.
NDL's collection policy requires physical media containing content, excluding cards that serve solely as download keys.
Concerns exist regarding the longevity of games reliant on online servers, particularly third-party titles.
NDL has started archiving digital books, suggesting possible future updates to video game preservation policies.

History

Historical Context

The 1996 National Information Infrastructure Act underscored the need for digital preservation in the U.S., with the Library of Congress warning that 90% of digital content could be lost without proper archiving. Similarly, Japan's National Diet Library faces challenges preserving Nintendo Switch 2 game-key cards, emphasizing the urgent need for updated video game preservation policies to protect cultural heritage for future generations.

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Story summary

Japan's National Diet Library (NDL) stated that Nintendo Switch 2 game-key cards cannot be preserved due to lack of game data.
NDL's collection policy requires physical media containing content, excluding cards that serve solely as download keys.
Concerns exist regarding the longevity of games reliant on online servers, particularly third-party titles.
NDL has started archiving digital books, suggesting possible future updates to video game preservation policies.

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