The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it boasts impressive backwards compatibility with Switch 1 games. 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 simple graphical upgrades and framerate improvements, offering a more enriched gaming experience.
What Games are Playable on Switch 2?
Nintendo has outlined three categories of games for the Switch 2. First, there are native Switch 2 games, designed exclusively for the new system and not playable on the original Switch. Second, there are compatible Switch 1 games, which can be played directly on the Switch 2 using their original cartridges. Finally, there are Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 titles, featuring new features and performance upgrades when played on the Switch 2.
This classification does not include the classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which offers 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 offer more than just a simple upgrade. For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch game, will include a new feature called Jamboree TV in its Switch 2 Edition. This will utilize the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, the Switch 2 microphone, and the separately sold Switch 2 USB-C camera. Alongside these, the game will have upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode, improved frame rates, new minigames, and enhanced online functions.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will support mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes. Quality Mode will run at 60fps in 4K when docked and 1080p at 60fps in handheld mode, while Performance Mode will achieve 120fps at 1080p when docked and 120fps at 720p in handheld mode. All modes will support HDR.
Other Switch 2 Edition titles will include 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 feature additional support for the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing guides and game help. Some games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will primarily focus on performance and resolution enhancements.
When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?
The Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, and the first batch of Switch 2 Edition games will be available around that 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. 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 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?
Pricing for Switch 2 Editions varies based on ownership of the original Switch 1 game. New buyers can purchase the Switch 2 Edition at retail, which will be identifiable by its red-colored physical game case and a prominent Switch 2 logo on digital versions. For those who already own the Switch 1 version and wish to upgrade, Nintendo will offer upgrade packs available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. The cost of these upgrade packs has not yet been disclosed. Notably, some upgrades, such as those for 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 classic game library.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions
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In summary, the Switch 2 Editions promise to enhance the gaming experience with new features and performance upgrades, making the transition from the original Switch to the Switch 2 seamless and exciting. For more information on the Nintendo Switch 2, be sure to check out the latest news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing and pre-order details.
