The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here, and as previously confirmed, it maintains strong backward compatibility with the original Switch. But Nintendo isn't stopping at just compatibility—they're pushing forward with a clear strategy to enhance select Switch 1 games for the new hardware. These aren't just simple graphical or performance upgrades; they represent a broader vision of what upgraded titles can be on the Switch 2.
What Games Are Playable on Switch 2?
According to Nintendo, there are three main categories of games playable on the Switch 2:
- Native Switch 2 Games – Titles built from the ground up specifically for the new system and exclusive to it.
- Compatible Switch 1 Games – Original Switch titles that can be played directly on the Switch 2 using physical cartridges or digital downloads.
- Switch 2 Edition Games – Enhanced versions of Switch 1 games that offer additional features, improved visuals, better performance, or entirely new content when played on the Switch 2.
Also included in this ecosystem are classic titles available through Nintendo Switch Online, spanning systems like the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube.
What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?
Nintendo is clearly aiming to add value for players who upgrade to the Switch 2 Edition of existing games. These editions go beyond typical remastering efforts, offering gameplay enhancements, visual improvements, and support for new hardware features such as the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, integrated microphone, and optional USB-C camera (sold separately).
- Super Mario Party Jamboree gets an all-new mode called Jamboree TV, which leverages the new input devices for fresh gameplay experiences. Alongside this, you’ll find resolution improvements up to 1440p in TV mode, smoother frame rates, new mini-games, and enhanced online functionality.
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will support Joy-Con 2 mouse controls and multiple display modes including Quality Mode (4K/60fps docked or 1080p/60fps handheld) and Performance Mode (1080p/120fps docked or 720p/120fps handheld), all with HDR support.
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land receives a substantial expansion in the form of the Star-Crossed World DLC, exclusive to its Switch 2 Edition.
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom gain access to the Zelda Notes service via the Nintendo Switch App, offering real-time guides and tips during gameplay.
- Pokemon Legends: Z-A focuses more on technical enhancements, delivering higher resolution and performance boosts under the Switch 2 Edition label.
When Are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?
The Nintendo Switch 2 launches globally on June 5, 2025, and several Switch 2 Edition titles will launch alongside it.
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Editions will be available starting June 5, 2025.
- Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV arrives July 24, 2025.
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s Star-Crossed World update releases August 28, 2025.
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A are both slated for release sometime in 2025, though exact dates remain unannounced.
How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?
Pricing varies depending on your current ownership status:
- If you don’t already own the Switch 1 version, you can purchase the full Switch 2 Edition either digitally or physically. Physical copies will feature a distinctive red game case, while digital versions will prominently display the Switch 2 logo to help identify them easily.
- If you already own the Switch 1 version and want to upgrade to the enhanced Switch 2 Edition, you’ll need to buy an Upgrade Pack. These packs will be available through select retailers, the My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. However, official pricing has not yet been announced.
- Certain Upgrade Packs, such as those for Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, will be included with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership—a subscription that also grants access to online multiplayer and the classic game library.
In summary, Nintendo is making the transition to the Switch 2 smooth and appealing by combining robust backward compatibility with meaningful enhancements in the form of Switch 2 Editions. Whether you're upgrading for performance, new content, or both, these enhanced titles look set to enrich the console's early days.
For more details about the Nintendo Switch 2, check out everything revealed during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including the official price and pre-order availability.
