The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and as previously reported, it maintains strong backward compatibility with games from the original Switch. However, Nintendo is taking a significant step further by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2, which go well beyond simple graphical and framerate improvements.

What Games are Playable on Switch 2?

Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three types. Firstly, there are native Switch 2 games, designed exclusively for this new system and not playable on the original Switch. Secondly, compatible Switch 1 games, which you can play directly on the Switch 2 by inserting their cartridges. Finally, Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 games, offering new features and performance upgrades when played on the Switch 2.

This categorization does not include the classic games accessible via Nintendo Switch Online, which encompasses titles from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

The key highlight from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is Nintendo's commitment to providing added value with the Switch 2 Editions of Switch 1 games.

For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch game, will come with a new feature set called Jamboree TV in its Switch 2 Edition. This will utilize the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, Switch 2's microphone, and the separately sold Switch 2 USB-C camera. Alongside these enhancements, the game will boast upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode, improved frame rates, new minigames, and enhanced online functions.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, set to be a cross-gen title, will introduce mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offer various display modes. Quality Mode will run at 60fps in 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld mode, while Performance Mode will achieve 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld mode. Both modes will support HDR.

Other Switch 2 Edition titles, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land, will feature new story content like the Star-Crossed World add-on. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will receive additional support through the Zelda Notes service within the Nintendo Switch App, offering guides and game assistance.

Certain games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will primarily focus on performance and resolution enhancements as part of their Switch 2 Edition upgrades.

When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?

Set for release on June 5, 2025, the Nintendo Switch 2 will see its first wave of Switch 2 Edition games 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 will follow on July 24, 2025, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s update will be available on August 28, 2025. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A are slated for release sometime in 2025, though exact dates have not been announced.

How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?

The cost of Switch 2 Editions varies based on ownership of the original game. New buyers can purchase the Switch 2 Edition at retail, 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 Switch 1 version and wish to access the Switch 2 Edition upgrades, an upgrade pack will be necessary. These packs will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and Nintendo eShop, though pricing details have yet to be disclosed.

Notably, the upgrade packs for the Switch 2 Editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will be included in 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

4 ImagesIn summary, the Switch 2 Editions offer an exciting way for gamers to experience enhanced versions of their favorite Switch 1 titles. Nintendo's approach to backward compatibility and the introduction of these upgraded editions promise a seamless transition to the new console, bolstering its launch library with improved versions of Switch classics.

For more information on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing details and pre-order information.