The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and as expected, it offers extensive backward compatibility with original Switch games. However, Nintendo is also making a dedicated effort to launch specially enhanced versions of these original titles for the new console. These "Switch 2 Edition" games appear to offer much more than just simple visual and frame rate improvements.
Which Games Are Playable on the Switch 2?
According to Nintendo, three primary types of games will be playable on the Switch 2. First are native Switch 2 titles, developed specifically for the new hardware and unplayable on the original Switch. Second are compatible Switch 1 games, whose cartridges can be inserted directly into the Switch 2 and played natively. Finally, there are Switch 2 Edition games, which are upgraded versions of original Switch titles that gain new features and performance enhancements on the new console.
This classification does not include the classic games available through the Nintendo Switch Online service, which offers a library of titles from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now the GameCube.
What Does a Switch 2 Edition Game Include?
The key takeaway from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation is that Nintendo is adding significant value for players who opt for the Switch 2 Edition of a game.
For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch title, will receive a Switch 2 Edition featuring a new content suite called "Jamboree TV." This mode will utilize the new Joy-Con 2's mouse-like controls, the Switch 2's built-in microphone, and a separately sold USB-C camera accessory.
In addition to upgraded resolution (up to 1440p in TV mode) and improved frame rates, these editions will often introduce new mini-games and enhanced online functionalities.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-generation title, will support the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls and offer multiple display modes. These include a Quality Mode that runs at 4K 60fps when docked (1080p 60fps in handheld) and a Performance Mode targeting 120fps at 1080p docked (720p in handheld). All modes will support HDR.
Other Switch 2 Edition titles will receive new story content, such as the "Star-Crossed World" add-on for Kirby and the Forgotten Land. Meanwhile, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will gain deeper integration with the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch Online app, providing players with guides and in-game assistance.
Some games, like Pokémon Legends: Z-A, will primarily feature performance and resolution upgrades under the Switch 2 Edition label.
When Will the Switch 2 Edition Games Be Released?
The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled for launch on June 5, 2025, which is when the first wave of Switch 2 Edition games is expected to arrive.
The Switch 2 Editions for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will be available on the console's launch day, June 5, 2025.
The enhanced version of Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV will follow a bit later on July 24, 2025. The update for Kirby and the Forgotten Land is set for August 28, 2025.
Since Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A do not have specific release dates yet, their Switch 2 Editions are tentatively planned for sometime in 2025.
How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?
The cost depends on your situation. If you do not own the original Switch version of a game, you can purchase the standalone Switch 2 Edition at retail. These physical copies will be easily identifiable by their new red-colored cases, and digital versions will feature a prominent Switch 2 logo.
If you already own the game on the original Switch and want the new enhancements, you will need to purchase an upgrade pack from Nintendo. These packs will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. However, Nintendo has not yet announced pricing for these upgrade packs.
Some upgrades, like those for the Switch 2 Editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, will be included as part of a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, the same subscription that provides access to online play and the classic game library.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Game Highlights and Editions
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That covers everything you need to know about the Switch 2 Edition games. We've previously detailed how Nintendo's strong backward compatibility makes the transition to the Switch 2 fairly seamless, and it's clear the company is aiming to strengthen its launch library with these improved versions of classic Switch titles.
For more on the Nintendo Switch 2, check out all the announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, including pricing details and pre-order availability.
