"Nintendo Switch 2 Enhances Original Games"

The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and as previously reported, it boasts impressive backward compatibility with Nintendo Switch 1 games. However, Nintendo isn't stopping at mere compatibility; they are introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2, offering more than just graphical and framerate upgrades.

What Games are Playable on Switch 2?

Nintendo has categorized games for the Switch 2 into three distinct types. First, there are native Switch 2 games, exclusively designed for this new system and not playable on the original Switch. Second, compatible Switch 1 games that you can directly insert into the Switch 2 and play without any issues. Lastly, Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 games, featuring new functionalities and performance improvements tailored for the Switch 2.

It's worth noting that this does not include the classic games available through the Nintendo Switch Online service, which spans a rich library from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now the GameCube.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

Nintendo's Switch 2 Direct highlighted that the Switch 2 Edition games will offer additional content and enhancements. Take Super Mario Party Jamboree, for instance; its Switch 2 Edition will introduce Jamboree TV, a new suite of content that leverages the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and a separately sold USB-C camera. Alongside these new features, expect upgraded visuals up to 1440p in TV mode, improved frame rates, fresh minigames, and enhanced online capabilities.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will support mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes: Quality Mode at 60fps in 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld, and Performance Mode at 120fps in 1080p when docked or 120fps in 720p in handheld. All modes will support HDR.

Other Switch 2 Edition games will also feature 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 integrate with the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing in-game guides and help. Meanwhile, games like Pokémon Legends: Z-A will focus 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 be available on launch day. Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV will follow on July 24, 2025, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s update will be released on August 28, 2025. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A are expected sometime in 2025, though specific dates are yet to be announced.

How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?

The pricing for Switch 2 Editions varies. If you don't own the Switch 1 version, you can buy the Switch 2 Edition, which comes in a distinctive new red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will be marked with a prominent Switch 2 logo for easy identification.

For those who already own the Switch 1 version and want the new enhancements, Nintendo offers upgrade packs. These will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop, though pricing details for these packs are still under wraps. Notably, upgrades for Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will be included in the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, which also provides access to online features and a classic game library.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions

4 ImagesThat sums up everything you need to know about the Switch 2 Editions of games. Nintendo is making the transition to the Switch 2 seamless with its backward compatibility and enhancing the launch library with improved versions of beloved Switch classics.

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