The long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it offers impressive backward compatibility with Nintendo Switch 1 games. However, Nintendo is going a step further by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games tailored for the Switch 2. These enhancements go beyond simple graphical upgrades and framerate improvements, promising an enriched 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 exclusively for this new system, which cannot be played on the original Switch. Second, compatible Switch 1 games that can be directly inserted into the Switch 2 and played without any issues. Lastly, Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 titles with new features and performance upgrades specifically for the Switch 2.
It's worth noting that this categorization does not include the classic games accessible through Nintendo Switch Online, which spans titles from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube.
So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?
The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct revealed that Nintendo is keen on providing extra value for players opting for the Switch 2 Edition of a Switch 1 game.
For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch game, will be upgraded with a new feature called Jamboree TV in its Switch 2 Edition. This addition will utilize the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and the separately sold USB-C camera. Alongside these enhancements, players can expect upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode, a better frame rate, new minigames, and enhanced online functionalities.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-generational title, will support mouse controls via Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes: Quality Mode, which runs at 60fps in 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld mode, and Performance Mode, which delivers 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld. Both modes will support HDR for a richer visual experience.
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 incorporate additional support for the Zelda Notes service within the Nintendo Switch App, offering guides and in-game assistance.
Some games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will focus solely on performance and resolution enhancements for their Switch 2 Edition.
When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?
The Nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, and the first wave of Switch 2 Edition games will launch around that 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 launch date, June 5, 2025.
The Switch 2 Edition of Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV will follow on July 24, 2025, with Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s update coming on August 28, 2025.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A have not yet received specific release dates but are expected sometime in 2025.
**How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?** -----------------------------------------The pricing for Switch 2 Editions varies. If you don't own the Switch 1 version, you can purchase the Switch 2 Edition at retail, which will be distinguishable by its red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will also feature a prominent Switch 2 logo to ensure you're buying the correct edition.
For those who already own the Switch 1 version and wish to enjoy the upgrades of the Switch 2 Edition, an upgrade pack will be necessary. These upgrade packs will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. Nintendo has yet to disclose the cost of these upgrade packs.
Some upgrade packs, like those for the Switch 2 Editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, will be included with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. This membership also provides access to online features and the classic game library.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions
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That concludes our comprehensive overview of the Switch 2 Editions of games. Nintendo is ensuring a seamless transition to the Switch 2 with its backward compatibility, and the enhanced Switch 2 Editions promise to elevate the gaming experience with improved versions of beloved Switch classics.
For more information on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing details and pre-order availability.
