The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously announced, it boasts impressive backward compatibility with Nintendo Switch 1 games. However, Nintendo is taking it a step further by introducing specially enhanced versions of these games for the Switch 2, which promise to deliver more than just graphical and framerate enhancements.
**What Games are Playable on Switch 2?** ----------------------------------------Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three distinct types. Firstly, there are native Switch 2 games designed specifically for the new system, which cannot be played on the original Switch. Secondly, compatible Switch 1 games whose cartridges can be directly inserted into the Switch 2 and played without any issues. Lastly, there are 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 classification does not include the classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which spans titles from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube.
The recent Nintendo Switch 2 Direct emphasized that Nintendo is keen on providing additional value with the Switch 2 Edition games. For instance, the Switch 2 Edition of Super Mario Party Jamboree introduces Jamboree TV, a new suite of content that leverages the Switch 2's Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, microphone, and optional USB-C camera. Alongside these features, players can expect upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode, enhanced frame rates, new minigames, and expanded online functionalities.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, set to be a cross-generational title, will support Joy-Con 2's mouse controls and offer multiple display modes. These include Quality Mode, which achieves 60fps at 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld, and Performance Mode, which pushes the frame rate to 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld mode. All these modes will support HDR for an enhanced visual experience.
Other Switch 2 Edition titles, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s Star-Crossed World add-on, will bring new story content. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will integrate the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, offering players guides and game assistance.
Some games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will primarily focus on performance and resolution enhancements as part of their Switch 2 Edition upgrades.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, and the initial wave of Switch 2 Edition games will coincide with this launch. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will be available as Switch 2 Editions on the same day.
Subsequently, the Switch 2 Edition of Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV will be released on July 24, 2025, followed by Kirby and the Forgotten Land's update on August 28, 2025. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A, while confirmed for 2025, do not have specific release dates yet.
**How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?** -----------------------------------------The cost of Switch 2 Editions varies depending on your ownership of the original Switch 1 game. New buyers can purchase the Switch 2 Edition at retail, easily identifiable by its distinctive red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will also feature a prominent Switch 2 logo for easy recognition.
For those who already own the Switch 1 version and wish to upgrade, an upgrade pack will be available for purchase. These can be found at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. The pricing for these upgrade packs has yet to be disclosed by Nintendo.
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 grants access to online features and a classic game library.
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In summary, the Switch 2 Editions offer a seamless transition from the original Switch with enhanced features and performance. Nintendo is clearly focused on enriching the gaming experience with these upgraded versions of their classic titles.
For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing and pre-order information.
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