The Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it boasts impressive backward compatibility with Nintendo 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 are not just limited to graphical improvements and frame rate boosts; they promise a more immersive gaming experience.
**What Games are Playable on Switch 2?** ----------------------------------------Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three types: Native Switch 2 games, which are exclusively designed for the Switch 2 and cannot be played on the original Switch; Compatible Switch 1 games, which can be played directly on the Switch 2 using their original cartridges; and Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 games offering new features and performance upgrades.
It's worth noting that this classification does not include the extensive library of classic games available 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 highlighted that Nintendo aims to enhance the gaming experience with Switch 2 Editions of Switch 1 games. For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree will feature a new content suite called Jamboree TV, leveraging the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2 microphone, and an optional USB-C camera. Alongside these, expect upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode, improved frame rates, new minigames, and enhanced online functionalities.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will be a cross-gen title supporting mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offering various display modes. Quality Mode will run at 60fps in 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld mode, while Performance Mode will offer 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld mode, all with HDR support.
Other Switch 2 Edition titles like Kirby and the Forgotten Land will include new story content with the Star-Crossed World add-on, while The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will gain additional features through the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing in-game guides and assistance.
Pokemon Legends: Z-A will focus primarily on performance and resolution enhancements for its Switch 2 Edition.
When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?
The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and the first wave of Switch 2 Edition games will be released 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 day, June 5, 2025.
Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV will follow on July 24, 2025, with Kirby and the Forgotten Land's update arriving on August 28, 2025. Both Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A are slated for release sometime in 2025, though exact dates have yet to be announced.
**How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?** -----------------------------------------The cost of Switch 2 Editions varies. If you don't own the original Switch 1 version, you can purchase the Switch 2 Edition at retail, identifiable by its distinctive red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will feature a prominent Switch 2 logo.
For those who already own the Switch 1 version and wish to upgrade to the Switch 2 Edition, an upgrade pack will be available. These can be purchased from select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop, though pricing details are yet to be disclosed.
Notably, the upgrade packs for Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will be included in a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, which also grants access to online features and a vast library of classic games.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions
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In summary, the Switch 2 Editions promise to enhance your gaming experience with new features, improved performance, and additional content. Nintendo's commitment to backward compatibility, combined with these enhanced editions, aims to make the transition to the Switch 2 seamless and exciting for gamers.
For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore all the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing information and pre-order availability.
