The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it boasts impressive backward 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 "Switch 2 Editions" go beyond mere graphical upgrades and framerate enhancements, offering a host of new features and improvements.
**What Games are Playable on Switch 2?** ----------------------------------------Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three main types:
- Native Switch 2 Games: These are developed specifically for the Switch 2 and cannot be played on the original Switch.
- Compatible Switch 1 Games: These games' cartridges can be seamlessly used in the Switch 2, allowing you to play them natively on the new console.
- Switch 2 Edition Games: These are Switch 1 games that will receive enhanced features and performance upgrades when played on the Switch 2.
It's worth noting that this 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.
So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?
Nintendo's Switch 2 Direct highlighted the added value for players opting for Switch 2 Editions of Switch 1 games. For instance, the Switch 2 Edition of Super Mario Party Jamboree introduces a new feature called Jamboree TV. This utilizes the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and a separately sold USB-C camera, offering a fresh interactive experience. Additionally, it comes with 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 delivers 60fps at 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld, while Performance Mode achieves 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 feature new story content like the Star-Crossed World add-on. Meanwhile, 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 guides and game assistance.
Some titles, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will focus solely on performance and resolution enhancements for their Switch 2 Edition.
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 Tears of the Kingdom will be available on launch day.
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 Pokemon Legends: Z-A are scheduled for release sometime in 2025, though specific dates have not 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 buy the Switch 2 Edition at retail, easily identifiable by its new red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will feature a prominent Switch 2 logo.
For those who already own the Switch 1 version and want the Switch 2 Edition upgrades, you'll need to purchase an upgrade pack. These will be 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, upgrade packs 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 a classic game library.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions
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This comprehensive overview covers all you need to know about the Switch 2 Editions. Nintendo's approach to backward compatibility and enhanced game versions promises a seamless transition to the Switch 2, enriching the gaming experience with improved versions of beloved Switch classics.
For more information on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including details on pricing and pre-order availability.
