The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it boasts impressive backward compatibility with games from the original Nintendo 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 improvements and framerate boosts, offering players a more 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 specifically for the new console and not playable on the original Switch. Second, compatible Switch 1 games, which can be played directly on the Switch 2 using the same cartridges. Finally, Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 titles, offering new features and performance improvements when played on the Switch 2.
This classification does not include the classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which now encompasses titles from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and GameCube.
So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?
The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct revealed that Nintendo is committed to enhancing the gaming experience for those playing Switch 2 Editions of Switch 1 games.
For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree will feature a new suite of content called Jamboree TV, designed to leverage the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, Switch 2 microphone, and the separately sold Switch 2 USB-C camera. Along with upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode and improved frame rates, new minigames and online functionalities will be included.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will support mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes. Quality Mode provides 60fps at 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld, while Performance Mode delivers 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld, with all modes supporting HDR.
Other Switch 2 Edition titles, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s Star-Crossed World add-on, will include new story content. Meanwhile, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will integrate with the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, offering guides and game help.
Some games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will primarily focus on performance and resolution enhancements as part of their Switch 2 Edition upgrades.
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 the same 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 console's launch day, June 5, 2025.
Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV and the update for Kirby and the Forgotten Land will follow on July 24, 2025, and August 28, 2025, respectively.
Both Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A are slated for release sometime in 2025, though specific dates have not yet been announced.
**How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?** -----------------------------------------The cost of Switch 2 Editions varies based on ownership of the original Switch 1 version. If you do not own the Switch 1 game, 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 to ensure you're buying the correct edition.
For those who already own the Switch 1 version and desire the enhancements of the Switch 2 Edition, an upgrade pack will be available for purchase. These upgrade packs can be found at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. Pricing details for these upgrade packs have not yet been disclosed by Nintendo.
Notably, the upgrade packs for The Legend of Zelda: 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 a 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 deliver an enhanced gaming experience, building on the strong foundation of backward compatibility and adding new features and improvements to beloved titles. Nintendo's approach ensures a seamless transition to the Switch 2, bolstering its launch library with upgraded versions of Switch classics.
For more detailed information on the Nintendo Switch 2, check out all the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing and pre-order details.
