Nintendo Switch 2 Enhances Original Games

The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously announced, it offers robust backward compatibility with Nintendo Switch 1 games. However, Nintendo is going beyond mere compatibility by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2, which promise more than just graphical and framerate enhancements.

What Games are Playable on Switch 2?

Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three types. Firstly, there are native Switch 2 games, designed exclusively for the new console and incompatible with the original Switch. Secondly, compatible Switch 1 games that can be played directly on the Switch 2 using their existing cartridges. Lastly, Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 titles, featuring new features and performance upgrades tailored for the Switch 2.

This classification does not include the classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which offers a library spanning NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube titles.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

Nintendo's Switch 2 Direct highlighted that Switch 2 Edition games will offer additional content and enhancements for players. For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch game, will have a Switch 2 Edition with a new feature called Jamboree TV. This will utilize the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and a separately sold USB-C camera, bringing innovative gameplay elements. Additionally, it will feature upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode, improved frame rates, new minigames, and enhanced online functions.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, as a cross-gen title, will support mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes. Quality Mode delivers 60fps at 4K when docked and 1080p at 60fps in handheld, while Performance Mode runs at 120fps in 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld, with HDR support across all modes.

Other Switch 2 Edition games 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 in-game guides and assistance. Some games, like Pokémon Legends: Z-A, will focus solely on performance and resolution improvements.

When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?

The Nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, with the first batch of Switch 2 Edition games launching around the same time. 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 and the Kirby and the Forgotten Land update will follow on July 24, 2025, and August 28, 2025, respectively. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A are expected sometime in 2025, though specific release dates have not been announced.

How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?

Pricing for Switch 2 Editions varies depending on ownership of the original Switch 1 game. New buyers can purchase the Switch 2 Edition at retail, identifiable by its distinctive red-colored physical game case and a prominent Switch 2 logo on digital versions. Owners of the Switch 1 version can upgrade to the Switch 2 Edition through an upgrade pack, available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and Nintendo eShop. The cost of these upgrade packs has yet to be disclosed by Nintendo. Notably, upgrades for 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 ImagesIn summary, the Switch 2 Editions promise to enhance your gaming experience with significant upgrades and new content. Nintendo's commitment to backward compatibility ensures a smooth transition to the Switch 2, while these enhanced editions add value to the console's launch library.

For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing information and pre-order details.