Ever since Nintendo officially unveiled the Switch 2, anticipation has been building for the upcoming April Direct. This event is expected to provide the official release date, pricing, and a confirmed lineup of games for the Switch 2. However, just a week before this highly anticipated event, Nintendo surprised everyone with another Direct, featuring major titles like Pokémon Legends Z-A and Metroid Prime 4. Given Nintendo's commitment to backward compatibility, this move shouldn't have been too surprising.

Prior to this week's Nintendo Direct, the company managed expectations by stating, "There will be no updates about Nintendo Switch 2 during the presentation." While this was technically accurate—as the Switch 2 wasn't mentioned beyond a reminder about the upcoming Direct and the introduction of the new Virtual Game Card sharing system—it's reasonable to infer that all the games showcased will be compatible with the Switch 2, even though they are officially slated for release on the original Switch.

It's a win-win scenario for everyone involved. Those continuing to use the original Switch have plenty to look forward to as the console enters its eighth year, and those upgrading to the Switch 2 can rest assured knowing they'll have access to an extensive back catalog of games from day one.

Nintendo's dedication to backward compatibility promises one of the smoothest transitions between console generations we've ever witnessed. While most are eager to discover the capabilities of the Switch 2 and its new game lineup, Nintendo's cautious approach with the hardware ensures all bases are covered. The recent Nintendo Direct didn't seem focused on boosting Switch 2 pre-orders or urging upgrades. This inclusive strategy is commendable. Nintendo is essentially welcoming everyone, whether you plan to buy a Switch 2 at launch, upgrade later, or are happy with your current Switch.

This is why there was no risk in showcasing a plethora of Switch games just days before the dedicated Switch 2 Direct. Beneath the surface, Nintendo was laying further groundwork for the upcoming transition. I'm referring to the Virtual Game Card system, an update that allows Switch owners to link two consoles and share digital games. This feature is particularly useful given the rising trend of digital game sales and mirrors Steam's family sharing system. But why announce it at the end of the Switch's lifecycle, with the Switch 2 just weeks or months away? Likely to ensure a smoother transition to the Switch 2.

Some have noted that the fine print for the Virtual Game Card system mentions a "Switch 2 Edition" for certain games. Whether this implies exclusive enhancements for Switch 2 Edition games that can't be shared with the original Switch, exclusive re-releases only compatible with the Switch 2, or something else, remains unclear. Similar to Nintendo's earlier statement that "Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported or fully compatible with Switch 2," this fine print probably safeguards Nintendo against any games that can't be shared.

Regardless of what the fine print signifies, Nintendo's approach to the Switch 2 transition feels more like a smooth progression, akin to Apple's iPhone upgrades. You're not forced to upgrade, but there are clear advantages if you do, and you can bring your existing games along for the journey.