The Nintendo Switch 2 has 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. These enhancements go beyond mere graphical upgrades and framerate improvements, offering a richer gaming experience.
Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three types. First, there are native Switch 2 games, designed exclusively for the new system and not playable on the original Switch. Second, compatible Switch 1 games, which can be played directly on the Switch 2 using their original cartridges. Finally, Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 titles, featuring new features and performance boosts when played on the Switch 2.
This classification does not include the classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which offers a library spanning the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct highlighted that Switch 2 Edition games will offer 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's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and the separately sold Switch 2 USB-C camera. Alongside these, the game will offer upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode, improved frame rates, 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 will run at 60fps in 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld mode, while Performance Mode will deliver 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. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will gain additional support for the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing guides and game help. Some games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will focus solely on performance and resolution enhancements.
The 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 Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s update will follow on July 24, 2025, and August 28, 2025, respectively. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A are expected sometime in 2025, though specific dates have not been announced.
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.
For those who already own the Switch 1 version and want the Switch 2 Edition upgrades, an upgrade pack will be available from select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. The cost of these upgrade packs has not been disclosed yet. Notably, the upgrade packs for 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 the classic game library.
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In summary, the Switch 2 Editions promise to enhance your gaming experience with new features and improved performance. Nintendo's commitment to backward compatibility and enhanced versions of Switch classics ensures a smooth transition to the new console.
For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing and pre-order information.
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