Nintendo Switch 2 Games Have Some of the Worst Box Art Ever

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Numerous gaming enthusiasts can’t wait to grab the latest Nintendo Switch 2 console due to its advanced hardware. The anticipation is that frustrating gameplay on the original Switch will be eliminated by the Switch 2. However, the Switch 2 encounters a significant hurdle at its launch and in the long run – its games. Initial disclosures of the pricing for Nintendo Switch 2 games left gamers stunned by the hike in prices for new Switch 2 games as well as enhancements to existing titles. Yet, cost isn’t the sole issue with Switch 2 games. There’s also the controversial box art design, which is… a matter of taste.

Physical game media continues to thrive among gaming enthusiasts, despite claims that digital libraries dominate today. Gamers appreciate the tangible aspect of collecting game boxes as a way to showcase their collections, which doubles as both decor and a topic for conversation. Additionally, having a physical copy acts as a safeguard when games disappear from online availability. However, when it comes to displaying these physical game boxes, especially the early Switch 2 releases, there are some aspects that fall short in terms of aesthetics.

Since numerous games such as Pokemon Legends Z-A are coming out for both the Switch and its successor, the Switch 2, it provides an opportunity to observe the evolution in Nintendo’s box art design. This change is certainly intriguing. I want to emphasize that my intention isn’t to criticize game key art or artists. Instead, I’m referring to the overall layout and presentation of the key art on Switch 2 boxes. Although it’s possible these games may appear different when they physically arrive, digital mock-ups suggest that the box designs for Switch 2 games might not be the most visually appealing choices for displaying on shelves.

Nintendo Switch 2 Box Design Looks Like GameStop Used Game Replacement Art

Based on the Nintendo Switch 2 game boxes that have been unveiled thus far, it seems like they’re taking a fresh design approach. For Nintendo Switch games, the box is transparent, featuring a tiny red Nintendo Switch logo in one corner. However, it appears that not enough of the traditional Nintendo red was used. Instead, the Switch 2 game boxes will be entirely red. Frankly, I can’t complain about that since we appreciate colorful designs. Xbox has previously had green game boxes, and PlayStation is known for its classic blue design. But in terms of aesthetics, things seem to go downhill from there.

In the design of the Nintendo Switch 2, a large label occupies a significant portion of the cover, including a full banner. As a result, the main artwork of the games has to be reduced in size to fit. For instance, the game “Legends Z-A” appears slightly off-centered and diminished due to this adjustment. This issue isn’t exclusive to Pokemon either; even Nintendo’s own titles, such as the initial launch game “Mario Kart World,” are compromising their game art to accommodate the Switch 2 banner at the top.

The design of these game boxes didn’t need to be like this. Both Xbox and PlayStation games use smaller, less obtrusive banners, despite having similar box designs. I think the thinner box shape might be responsible, as it makes the logo banner occupy a larger portion of the available space. For me, this design recalls the old GameStop used game inserts where they would stick a small printout on a standard box if the original case was missing. Do you remember when used games sometimes had off-center game art and a large banner at the top? That was endearing for used games, but not so much for a new game that costs $80 and comes in its original case.

Besides myself, many others share the same opinion. In fact, there’s an entire discussion thread on Graphic Design Reddit about finding better ways to redesign the oversized Nintendo Switch 2 banner on the game boxes. Frankly, some of the suggestions in that thread are quite impressive.

To be clear, the aesthetic appeal of the box is insignificant next to how the games actually perform. Even though the cover of “Legends Z-A” Switch 2 may not be as eye-catching as its predecessor on the Switch 1, it’s highly likely that it will deliver a superior gaming experience on the newer console due to better performance. While the Switch version might appear more visually appealing for collectors, at the heart of it all, we’re primarily seeking a smoother and more efficient gaming experience, characterized by a higher frame rate.

Despite my expectations, I’m secretly hoping that when I come across a real Nintendo Switch 2 game case in public, it doesn’t appear as unattractive as the online mockups suggest. After all, this is one more factor discouraging me from rushing to buy a Switch 2 on its release day.

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2025-05-30 23:43