The long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it's largely backward compatible with games from the original Switch. However, Nintendo is going a step further by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games, dubbed Switch 2 Editions, which offer more than just graphical upgrades and improved frame rates.
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, exclusively developed for this new system and not playable on the original Switch. Second, there are compatible Switch 1 games, whose cartridges can be inserted directly into the Switch 2 and played natively. Lastly, there are Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 games, offering new features and performance upgrades on the Switch 2.
It's worth noting that this categorization does not include the classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which features a library spanning the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube.
What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?
Nintendo's Switch 2 Direct showcased their commitment to enhancing the gaming experience with Switch 2 Editions. For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch game, will receive a Switch 2 Edition with a new feature called Jamboree TV. This utilizes the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and an optional USB-C camera, enhancing gameplay with new content and interaction methods.
Alongside resolution upgrades up to 1440p in TV mode and better frame rates, new minigames and online features will be included. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will support mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes like Quality Mode (60fps at 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld) and Performance Mode (120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld), all with HDR support.
Other Switch 2 Edition games, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land, will introduce new story content like the Star-Crossed World add-on. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will gain additional support for the Zelda Notes service through the Nintendo Switch App, providing guides and game help.
Some games, like Pokémon Legends: Z-A, will only see performance and resolution improvements as part of their Switch 2 Edition.
When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?
The Nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, with the first batch of Switch 2 Edition games arriving around the same time. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will launch their Switch 2 Editions on the console's release date.
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 Pokémon 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 purchase the Switch 2 Edition at retail, easily identifiable by its new red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will prominently feature a Switch 2 logo.
For those who already own the Switch 1 version and want the upgrades, an upgrade pack will be available for purchase from select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and Nintendo eShop. The cost of these upgrade packs has not been disclosed yet.
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 provides access to online features and the classic game library.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions
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This comprehensive guide 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 and enhanced versions of Switch classics to bolster its launch library.
For more information on the Nintendo Switch 2, check out all the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing details and pre-order information.
