The Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and as previously reported, it's largely backwards compatible with games from the original Switch. However, Nintendo is taking it a step further by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2. These enhancements go beyond mere graphical improvements and framerate boosts, promising a richer gaming experience.
What Games are Playable on Switch 2?
Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three types. First, there are native Switch 2 games, designed specifically for the new system and not playable on the original Switch. Second, compatible Switch 1 games, which you can play directly on the Switch 2 by inserting their cartridges. Lastly, Switch 2 Edition games, which are Switch 1 titles enhanced with new features and performance upgrades when played on the Switch 2.
This classification does not include the classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which offers a vast library from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube.
So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?
Nintendo's Switch 2 Direct highlighted that Switch 2 Edition games come with additional content and enhancements. For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch game, will feature a new suite of content called Jamboree TV. This will utilize the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and the separately sold Switch 2 USB-C camera. Alongside an upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode and improved frame rates, new minigames and online functions will be added.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will support mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes. Quality Mode will run at 60fps in 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld mode, while Performance Mode will achieve 120fps in 1080p when docked or 120fps in 720p in handheld mode. Both modes will support HDR.
Other Switch 2 Edition titles will include new story content, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land's Star-Crossed World add-on. 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 guides and game help. Some games, like Pokémon Legends: Z-A, will only receive performance and resolution enhancements.
When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?
The Switch 2 is set for release on June 5, 2025, with the first batch of Switch 2 Edition games arriving around the same 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 console's release date. Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV will follow on July 24, 2025, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land's update will be available on August 28, 2025. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A are slated for release sometime in 2025, though exact dates are yet to be announced.
How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?
Pricing for Switch 2 Editions varies. If you don't own the Switch 1 version, you can buy the Switch 2 Edition at retail, easily identifiable by its new red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will feature a prominent Switch 2 logo.
If you already own the Switch 1 version and want the Switch 2 Edition upgrades, you'll need to purchase an upgrade pack from Nintendo. These packs will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. Pricing details for these upgrade packs have not been disclosed yet.
Some upgrade packs, such as those for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, will be included in a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, which also provides access to online features and the classic game library.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions
4 Images
That's a comprehensive overview of the Switch 2 Editions of games. Nintendo is ensuring a smooth transition to the Switch 2 with its backward compatibility and enhancing the launch library with improved versions of Switch classics.
For more on Nintendo Switch 2, check out all the news announced during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, as well as details on pricing and pre-order availability.
