Nintendo Fine Print Reveals 'Nintendo Switch 2 Edition' Games and Fans Are Trying to Work Out What That Means

Today's Nintendo Direct announcement of a new Virtual Game Cards feature for sharing games between systems has sparked both surprise and curiosity among fans. However, it's also prompting questions, particularly about the Nintendo Switch 2, due to a revealing footnote on an official Nintendo webpage.

The webpage detailing how Virtual Game Cards function includes mostly clear information. Yet, a footnote at the page's bottom, linked to transferring games between Switch systems, has caught everyone's attention. It states:

**Compatible systems must be linked to a Nintendo Account to use virtual game cards. Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games can only be loaded on a Nintendo Switch 2 system. To move virtual game cards between two systems, you must pair the systems via local wireless and an internet connection, but only when pairing the systems for the first time. Up to two systems total can be linked per Nintendo Account.

The term "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games" is what's stirring debate. While "exclusive games" for the Nintendo Switch 2 is understandable, as it was known these would be limited to the new console, the "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" label is less clear. Given that the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to be largely backward compatible with the original Switch, what exactly constitutes a "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" game?

Some fans theorize that this could hint at "enhanced editions" of current Switch games, featuring new elements or enhanced performance, designed exclusively for the Switch 2. If true, it would be logical that these versions couldn't be shared with the original Switch, as they would be fundamentally different and incompatible.

However, other theories suggest this might not confirm anything definitive. It could simply indicate that the Virtual Game Card feature won't allow transferring certain or all Nintendo Switch 2 games back to the original Switch, even if they're the same title. Alternatively, it might just be a provision for potential future releases by third-party developers of "Nintendo Switch 2 Editions" of games.

We sought clarification from Nintendo, but a spokesperson informed us that an answer would be provided on April 2, coinciding with the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct. So, everyone, just a bit more patience is needed.