The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it offers significant backward compatibility with games from the original Switch. 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 mere graphical improvements and frame rate boosts, offering a more immersive gaming experience.
**What Games are Playable on Switch 2?** ----------------------------------------Nintendo has outlined three main categories of games for the Switch 2. First, there are native Switch 2 games, designed exclusively for this new system and not playable on the original Switch. Second, there are compatible Switch 1 games, which can be played natively on the Switch 2 using their existing cartridges. Finally, there are Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 titles with new features and performance upgrades.
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?
The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct highlighted that these Switch 2 Editions come with additional perks for gamers. For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch game, will be enhanced with 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, the game will offer upgraded resolutions up to 1440p in TV mode, improved frame rates, new minigames, and enhanced online functions.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will introduce mouse controls via Joy-Con 2 and multiple display modes. Quality Mode will run at 60fps in 4K when docked, or 1080p at 60fps in handheld, while Performance Mode will offer 120fps in 1080p when docked or 120fps in 720p in handheld mode, all supporting HDR.
Other Switch 2 Edition titles will feature 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 integrate additional support for the Zelda Notes service within the Nintendo Switch App, providing guides and game help. Meanwhile, games like Pokemon Legends: Z-A will primarily see performance and resolution enhancements.
When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?
The Nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, with the first wave of Switch 2 Edition games expected 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 Pokemon Legends: Z-A are expected sometime in 2025, though specific dates have not yet been announced.
**How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?** -----------------------------------------The cost of Switch 2 Editions varies. If you're new to the game, you can buy 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 existing Switch 1 game owners looking to upgrade, Nintendo offers upgrade packs, available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. Pricing for these upgrade packs has not been disclosed yet.
Notably, some upgrade packs, such as those for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, are 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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There you have it, a comprehensive guide to the Switch 2 Editions of games. Nintendo is ensuring a smooth transition to the Switch 2 with its backward compatibility and enriched versions of beloved Switch classics.
For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing and pre-order information.
