The Xenoblade Chronicles Series Thread: Definitive Edition (All Spoilers in Tags)

[Nuvendil]

curl-6 said:

killeryoshis said:

I keep hearing that the story part is in a cart and the expansion pass is a code. The way Nintendo has it worded it on their website is confusing. I think I'll wait for more info.

I could be wrong, but to me it definitely reads like the physical version is just a download code, not actually the expansion on a cartridge.

Apparently the Japanese side has much clearer wording.  Torna: The Golden Country is on a cart.  The Expansion Pass is a code.  Hence why it is a "standalone version".