Civilization 7 recalled after game became entry point for Switch 2 exploit

Recently, developers publicized a series of exploits for Nintendo’s latest console. While not a full Switch 2 jailbreak, CivSwitch provides userland access and could lead to significant breakthroughs. Citing security concerns, 2K Games has reportedly recalled the suddenly popular Civilization 7 cartridge.

A suspicious recall

Redditor MaruluVR shared how a German Amazon reseller contacted a fellow homebrew enthusiast. After buying a boxed copy of the Civilization 7 Switch port, he learned they could not process the order. The message explains that the “publisher has withdrawn the physical version (game cartridge)” due to “technical and security-related requirements.”

The email says the retailer has been instructed to recall the Switch title and offers alternatives. If the Switch 2 game were an option, they can substitute the code-in-box release, which includes the current-gen upgrade. Otherwise, the only resolution is a cancellation and refund.

Likely unaware of the Switch 2 jailbreak and exploits, the seller finds the recall puzzling. Nevertheless, the homebrew community believes the timing is too coincidental. Since Gezine’s CivSwitch emerged, the turn-based strategy experience has sold for higher prices on eBay. Other Reddit posters also report cancellations for the frequently sold-out target.

It’s unclear whether Nintendo asked 2K Games to restrict access to the physical Civilization 7 media. Still, the gaming giant previously blocked eShop users from downloading SmileBASIC 4. Available for the last-gen system, it’s an entry point for the ns2jb exploit. The jailbreak breaches a deeper level of security, enabling hackers to dump Switch 2 games and introduce a piracy threat.

How CivSwitch works

Even with limitations, CivSwitch lets testers explore the console’s vulnerabilities. The multiplayer chat is the weak point, allowing testers to run custom JavaScript code. To achieve userland access, they must insert an unpatched Civilization 7 cartridge. A programmed Raspberry Pi Pico or Pico 2 then connects to the handheld and acts as a USB keyboard to type the code.

Nintendo has not commented on CivSwitch, the ns2jb jailbreak, or related discoveries. Regardless, its actions could minimize the damage until updated firmware addresses security flaws.