"Nintendo Switch 2 Enhances Original Games"

The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it boasts impressive backward compatibility with games from the original Switch. However, Nintendo is going above and beyond by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2. These enhancements are not just limited to graphical improvements and higher frame rates; they promise a whole new level of gameplay experience.

Nintendo has outlined three primary categories of games that will be playable on the Switch 2:

1. Native Switch 2 Games: These are titles developed specifically for the Switch 2 and are not playable on the original Switch.
2. Compatible Switch 1 Games: These are games whose cartridges can be directly inserted into the Switch 2 and played natively on the console.
3. Switch 2 Edition Games: These are Switch 1 games that receive new features and performance enhancements when played on the Switch 2.

Note that this classification does not include classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which offers a library spanning NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube titles.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

The key highlight from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is that Nintendo is adding extra value for players opting for the Switch 2 Edition of a Switch 1 game.

Take, for instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree. The Switch 2 Edition will introduce a new feature called Jamboree TV, utilizing the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and a separately sold USB-C camera. This edition will also offer upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode, enhanced frame rates, new minigames, and improved online functionalities.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-generational 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 mode, while Performance Mode offers 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld. Both 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. Meanwhile, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will gain additional support for the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing players with guides and in-game assistance.

Some games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will only see performance and resolution enhancements as part of their Switch 2 Edition.

When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?

The Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, and the first batch of Switch 2 Edition games will launch 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, June 5, 2025.

Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV will follow on July 24, 2025, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s update will arrive on August 28, 2025.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A do not have specific release dates yet, but both are expected to launch sometime in 2025.

The cost of Switch 2 Editions varies based on ownership of the original Switch 1 game. If you don't own the Switch 1 version, you can buy the Switch 2 Edition at retail, which will be easily identifiable by its new red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will also feature a prominent Switch 2 logo.

For those who already own the game on Switch 1 and want the Switch 2 Edition upgrades, an upgrade pack must be purchased from Nintendo. These upgrade packs will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. Pricing for the upgrade packs has not been disclosed yet.

Some upgrade packs, 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 grants access to online features and a classic game library.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions

4 ImagesIn summary, the Switch 2 Editions offer enhanced gameplay experiences for popular Switch 1 titles, ensuring a smooth transition to the new console with its backward compatibility. Nintendo is clearly aiming to enrich its launch library with these improved versions of beloved classics.

For further details on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore all the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing and pre-order information.