The Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and as previously reported, it will be largely backwards compatible with Switch 1 games. However, Nintendo is making a concerted effort to introduce specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2, going beyond mere graphical and framerate improvements.
What Games are Playable on Switch 2?
Nintendo has outlined three types of games playable on the Switch 2: native Switch 2 games designed exclusively for the system, compatible Switch 1 games that can be played directly on the Switch 2, and Switch 2 Edition games. These editions are enhanced versions of Switch 1 games, featuring new features and performance upgrades when played on the Switch 2.
This classification does not include classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which offers a library spanning 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 will offer more than just the original experience. For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch game, will include a new suite of content called Jamboree TV. This will leverage the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, Switch 2 microphone, and the separately sold Switch 2 USB-C camera. Alongside upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode and improved frame rates, players can enjoy new minigames and enhanced online functions.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will support mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes. Quality Mode provides 60fps at 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld mode, while Performance Mode delivers 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld mode, all with HDR support.
Other Switch 2 Edition titles, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s Star-Crossed World add-on, will introduce new story content. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will gain additional support for the Zelda Notes service within the Nintendo Switch App, offering guides and game assistance.
Some games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will focus solely on performance and resolution enhancements as part of their Switch 2 Edition.
When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?
The Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, coinciding with the launch of the first batch of Switch 2 Edition games. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will receive their Switch 2 Editions on the console's launch day.
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. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A do not have specific release dates yet but are expected sometime in 2025.
How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?
The cost of 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 and a prominent Switch 2 logo on digital versions.
For those who already own the Switch 1 version and want the upgrades, an upgrade pack will be necessary. These will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop, though the exact cost has not been disclosed.
Some upgrade packs, such as those for Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, will be included in a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, which also grants access to online features and the classic game library.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions
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In summary, the Switch 2 Editions promise to enhance your gaming experience with new features and improved performance. Nintendo's approach to backward compatibility and enhanced game editions ensures a smooth transition to the new console while offering exciting new content for returning titles.
For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing and pre-order information.
