The long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it's largely backwards compatible with Nintendo Switch 1 games. However, Nintendo is taking a step further by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2, going beyond mere graphical and framerate improvements.
**What Games are Playable on Switch 2?** ----------------------------------------Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three main types. First, there are native Switch 2 games, designed exclusively for this new system and incompatible with the original Switch. Second, there are compatible Switch 1 games, whose cartridges can be seamlessly used on the Switch 2. Lastly, there are Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 games with new features and performance upgrades.
This categorization does not include the classic games accessible through Nintendo Switch Online, which boasts a library spanning the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube.
So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?
Nintendo's Switch 2 Direct revealed that Switch 2 Edition games will offer more than just visual enhancements. Take, for example, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch 1 game. Its Switch 2 Edition introduces Jamboree TV, a new suite of content that leverages the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and the separately sold Switch 2 USB-C camera.
Alongside a resolution upgrade to 1440p in TV mode and improved frame rates, these editions will include new minigames and enhanced online functionalities.For Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, players can expect support for mouse controls with Joy-Con 2, and multiple display options: Quality Mode offers 60fps at 4K when docked, or 1080p at 60fps in handheld; Performance Mode delivers 120fps at 1080p when docked, or 120fps at 720p in handheld mode. All modes will support HDR.
Other Switch 2 Edition titles will receive 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 incorporate additional features through the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing in-game guides and assistance.For games like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, the Switch 2 Edition will primarily feature performance and resolution enhancements.
When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?
The Nintendo Switch 2 will launch on June 5, 2025, coinciding with the release 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 both receive their Switch 2 Editions on launch day.
Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV's Switch 2 Edition will follow on July 24, 2025, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land's update will be available on August 28, 2025. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A are slated for release sometime in 2025, though specific dates remain undisclosed.
**How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?** -----------------------------------------Pricing for Switch 2 Editions varies. For those without the Switch 1 version, the Switch 2 Edition can be purchased at retail, easily identifiable by its new red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will prominently feature a Switch 2 logo.
If you already own the Switch 1 version and want the Switch 2 Edition upgrades, you'll need to buy an upgrade pack from Nintendo. These packs will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. Pricing details for these upgrade packs have not yet been disclosed.
Some upgrade packs, such as those 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 grants access to online features and the classic game library.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions
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This comprehensive overview covers everything you need to know about the Switch 2 Editions of games. Nintendo is ensuring a smooth transition to the Switch 2 with its backward compatibility policy, and the enhanced versions of beloved Switch classics are set to enrich the launch library.
For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing and pre-order information.
