Nintendo Switch 2 Enhances Original Games

The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it boasts impressive backward compatibility with games from the original Switch. 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, promising a richer 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 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. Lastly, 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.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct highlighted that Nintendo is keen on providing additional 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 see its Switch 2 Edition enriched with Jamboree TV, a new suite of content utilizing the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, Switch 2 microphone, and the separately sold Switch 2 USB-C camera. Alongside these, players can expect 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, while Performance Mode will deliver 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld, 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 benefit from additional support for the Zelda Notes service within the Nintendo Switch App, offering guides and game assistance. Meanwhile, Pokemon Legends: Z-A will focus solely on performance and resolution enhancements.

When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?

The Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, coinciding with the launch of the first batch of Switch 2 Edition games. 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 to release their Switch 2 Editions sometime in 2025, though specific dates have not yet been announced.

How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?

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 upgrades, an upgrade pack will be available for purchase 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 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, which also provides access to online features and the classic game library.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions

4 ImagesIn summary, the Switch 2 Editions promise to enhance your gaming experience with new features and improved performance. Nintendo's approach to backward compatibility and enhanced game versions ensures a smooth transition to the Switch 2, bolstering its launch library with upgraded versions of beloved Switch classics.

For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing and pre-order information.