The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it boasts impressive backward compatibility with Switch 1 games. However, Nintendo is taking things a step further by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2, offering more than just graphical and framerate upgrades.
**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, exclusively developed for this new system and not playable on the original Switch. Second, there are compatible Switch 1 games, whose cartridges can be directly inserted into the Switch 2 for native play. Lastly, Switch 2 Edition games are enhanced versions of Switch 1 titles, featuring new features and performance improvements when played on the Switch 2.
This classification does not include classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which offers a rich library spanning NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube titles.
So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?
During the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, it became clear that Nintendo aims to offer additional value to players with Switch 2 Editions of Switch 1 games. For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree's Switch 2 Edition includes a new feature called Jamboree TV, which utilizes the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and the separately sold Switch 2 USB-C camera.
In addition to enhanced resolutions up to 1440p in TV mode and improved frame rates, players can expect 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 delivers 60fps at 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld, while Performance Mode offers 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld mode, with all modes supporting HDR. Other Switch 2 Edition titles will introduce new story content, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land's Star-Crossed World add-on. Meanwhile, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will integrate additional support for the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing guides and game assistance. Some games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will focus solely on performance and resolution enhancements.When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?
The Nintendo 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 launch their Switch 2 Editions on the same day.
Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV's Switch 2 Edition 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 Pokemon Legends: Z-A do not have confirmed release dates 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. Digital versions will feature a prominent Switch 2 logo.
For those who already own the Switch 1 version and want the Switch 2 upgrades, an upgrade pack will be necessary. These packs will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop, though pricing details are yet to be announced.
Some upgrade packs, such as those for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, will be included with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, which also provides access to online features and a classic game library.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions
4 Images
In summary, the Switch 2 Editions promise to enhance your gaming experience with new features and improved performance. Nintendo's commitment to backward compatibility ensures a smooth transition to the Switch 2, while the launch library will be enriched with these enhanced versions of beloved Switch classics.
For more information on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the latest news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing details and pre-order information.
