The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and as previously reported, it offers substantial backwards compatibility with Nintendo Switch 1 games. However, Nintendo is not stopping at mere compatibility; they are pushing the envelope with specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games tailored for the Switch 2. These enhancements go well beyond simple graphical upgrades and framerate improvements, promising a richer gaming experience.
What Games are Playable on Switch 2?
Nintendo has categorized games for the Switch 2 into three main types. First, there are native Switch 2 games, designed exclusively for this new console and not playable on the original Switch. Second, there are compatible Switch 1 games that you can insert directly into the Switch 2 and play without any issues. Finally, there are Switch 2 Edition games, which are Switch 1 titles that have been revamped with new features and performance enhancements for the Switch 2.
It's worth noting that this categorization does not include the classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which offers a nostalgic library spanning from NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, to now including GameCube titles.
So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?
The key highlight from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is that Nintendo is committed to enhancing the experience for those playing Switch 2 Editions of Switch 1 games. For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch game, will receive a Switch 2 Edition with a new suite of content called Jamboree TV. This new feature will leverage the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and a separately sold USB-C camera.
In addition to upgraded visuals with resolutions up to 1440p in TV mode and improved frame rates, you can expect new minigames and enhanced online functionalities. Another example is Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title that will support mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes such as Quality Mode, which runs at 60fps in 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld mode, and Performance Mode, which achieves 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld mode. Both modes will support HDR.
Other Switch 2 Edition titles, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s Star-Crossed World add-on, will introduce new story content, while The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will integrate with the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing players with in-game guides and assistance.
Some games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will primarily see performance and resolution enhancements as part of their Switch 2 Edition.
When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?
The Nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, and the first wave of Switch 2 Edition games will be available around that time. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will launch their Switch 2 Editions on the same day, June 5, 2025.
Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV will follow on July 24, 2025, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s update will arrive on August 28, 2025. As for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A, their Switch 2 Editions are expected sometime in 2025, though specific release dates are yet to be announced.
How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?
The pricing for Switch 2 Editions varies. If you don't own the Switch 1 version of a game, you can buy the Switch 2 Edition at retail, easily identifiable by its distinctive red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will also feature a prominent Switch 2 logo, ensuring you're purchasing the correct edition.
For those who already own the Switch 1 version and wish to access the enhancements of the Switch 2 Edition, an upgrade pack will be available for purchase. These upgrade packs will be offered at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and Nintendo eShop, though the exact cost remains undisclosed.
Notably, some upgrade packs, such as those for the Switch 2 Editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, will be included in a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. This membership not only provides access to these upgrades but also to online features and a vast library of classic games.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions
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In summary, the Switch 2 Editions of games represent Nintendo's commitment to providing an enhanced gaming experience. With their backward compatibility approach, Nintendo is ensuring a smooth transition to the Switch 2, complemented by improved versions of beloved Switch classics.
For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore all the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing and pre-order information.
