Nintendo Unveils New Virtual Game Card System to Hide Game Cards

Nintendo's latest update for the Switch introduces the new Virtual Game Card (VGC) system, providing players with the option to keep their digital game collection private. This feature allows users to hide specific games from their acquired list on the Nintendo VGC portal, ensuring that certain titles remain out of sight from others who might glance at your game library.

As demonstrated by a user on X/Twitter, hiding Virtual Game Cards is straightforward. I personally tested this feature and successfully concealed games such as Suikoden I&II HD Remaster and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. These hidden games will still appear on your OLED Switch if they're installed or loaded, but they will vanish from your list once uninstalled.

To access your hidden games, navigate to the "Redownload Software" section in your game list and then proceed to the "Can't Find Software?" option. Here, you'll need to log into your Nintendo account to view the list of hidden games. The same process applies on the Nintendo website, where hidden games are tucked away in a separate folder under the "Can't Find Software?" section.

This feature can be particularly useful for those sharing consoles, offering a semblance of parental control by keeping games like Mortal Kombat or Doom out of reach. It could also be handy for those who prefer to keep certain titles private, perhaps when showcasing their Switch at social gatherings.

The latest firmware update not only brings the VGC system but also includes redesigned icons, a system transfer feature in anticipation of the upcoming Switch 2, and the closure of a popular game-sharing loophole. For more details on the new Nintendo Switch firmware update, you can explore further here.