Cyberpunk 2077 to Use 25% of Switch 2's Storage

CD Projekt Red has officially announced that the install size for Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition on the Nintendo Switch 2 will be 64GB. This size is notably smaller than the 100-110GB required on Xbox or PS5, but it still represents a significant 25% of the Switch 2's confirmed 256GB internal storage. Set to launch alongside the Switch 2 on June 5, Cyberpunk 2077 will be available both as a physical 64GB game card and as a digital download from the Nintendo eShop. Unlike some other new Switch 2 game cards, which may only contain a download key, Cyberpunk 2077 will come with the full game on the card.

This revelation raises concerns about how quickly the Switch 2's internal storage might fill up. The Switch 2 boasts a significant upgrade from the original Switch's 32GB, but with larger game sizes on the horizon, storage space could become an issue. For example, Cyberpunk 2077 is significantly larger than one of the original Switch's biggest games, Tears of the Kingdom, which was only 16GB. Other upcoming titles, like the $80 Mario Kart World, are expected to demand even more storage.

The solution to this storage challenge lies in expandable storage. While the original Switch supported standard microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards, the Switch 2 is exclusively compatible with microSD Express cards. This means that existing microSD cards won't work, and users will need to purchase new, more expensive microSD Express cards. IGN's deals team has already identified the best prices on Switch 2-compatible microSD Express cards, offering options from 128GB ($44.99) to 1TB ($199.99) from brands like SanDisk and Lexar. Some of these options are already in high demand, with certain models listed as "temporarily out of stock" on Amazon.

Nintendo is also collaborating with SanDisk and Samsung to release its own branded microSD Express cards. Historically, these branded cards tend to be pricier than similar third-party options. As the Switch 2 drives demand, it's possible more manufacturers will enter the microSD Express market, potentially affecting prices. However, whether this will lead to more affordable options remains to be seen.

For those eager to learn more about the Nintendo Switch 2, you can catch up on all the details from the Nintendo Direct and find our comprehensive guide on securing your preorder for the Switch 2, which opens on April 9.