LEGO 2K Drive, the latest open-world racing game set in the world of Bricklandia, has been receiving positive reviews from critics and players. However, the physical version of the game for Nintendo Switch may present a significant drawback for those who prefer to buy and collect physical games. This decision could potentially impact the reception of LEGO 2K Drive during its initial post-launch weekend.
Developed by Visual Concepts, the renowned creators of the WWE 2K series, LEGO 2K Drive allows players to drive LEGO versions of licensed cars and compete against eccentric rivals for the Sky Trophy. The game features online multiplayer with cross-play across multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch.
One Nintendo Switch owner, Farbklex, was excited to purchase a physical copy of LEGO 2K Drive but was disappointed after reading the download code disclaimer. Instead of including a physical game cartridge, the retail version for Nintendo Switch provides a voucher code for the digital edition. Additionally, due to the limited internal storage of the Nintendo Switch console, players are required to have a microSD card to download and play the game. This decision by 2K has garnered criticism from Farbklex and other players, who express their frustration with the limitations of the Nintendo Switch version.
The current Nintendo eShop page for LEGO 2K Drive indicates a file size of 6.3 GB. However, players need to download additional content and updates before starting the game. Consequently, many LEGO 2K Drive players are dissatisfied with 2K’s choice to release the Nintendo Switch physical version in this manner, leading some to view the physical copy as wasteful.
2K could have potentially earned more goodwill from Nintendo Switch owners if LEGO 2K Drive had been released with a physical game cartridge. The criticism surrounding microtransactions and the physical version of the game may impact its overall reception in the coming weeks and months. Improved communication between 2K and the player community could help address some of these frustrations. A prime example of effective communication and transparency is seen with the launch of LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, which has garnered success by promising post-launch support and keeping players informed.
It is worth noting that the majority of physical Nintendo Switch games in 2023 do not require the use of a download code. Highly successful titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and the upcoming Pikmin 4 by Shigeru Miyamoto are among those that offer a complete physical game experience without additional downloads.
As LEGO 2K Drive continues its journey, it remains to be seen how 2K and the player community will address these concerns and shape the game’s future reception.
