"Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Games Hint at New Console, Fans Speculate"

Today's Nintendo Direct announcement of a new Virtual Game Cards feature for sharing games between systems has sparked surprise and interest among fans. However, it has also raised questions, particularly about the Nintendo Switch 2, due to a footnote on an official Nintendo webpage.

The page detailing how Virtual Game Cards work is mostly clear, but a footnote at the bottom catches attention. It states:

**Compatible systems must be linked to a Nintendo Account to use virtual game cards. Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games can only be loaded on a Nintendo Switch 2 system. To move virtual game cards between two systems, you must pair the systems via local wireless and an internet connection, but only when pairing the systems for the first time. Up to two systems total can be linked per Nintendo Account.

The phrase "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games" is causing confusion. While the mention of "exclusive games" is expected, given that some games will be playable only on the Nintendo Switch 2 and not the current Switch, the term "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games" is less clear. Given the Nintendo Switch 2's backward compatibility with the original Switch, what exactly constitutes a "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition game"?

Some fans speculate that this could be a hint at "enhanced editions" of existing Switch games, tailored for the Switch 2 with additional features or improved performance. These versions would be exclusive to the Switch 2 and not compatible with the original Switch, explaining why they can't be shared.

However, other theories suggest that this footnote doesn't necessarily confirm anything new. It might simply indicate that certain Nintendo Switch 2 games cannot be sent back to the original Switch, even if they are the same game. Alternatively, it could be a provision allowing third-party developers to release "Nintendo Switch 2 Editions" of games in the future.

We contacted Nintendo for clarification but were informed by a spokesperson that an answer would be provided on April 2, coinciding with the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct. Fans will need to wait a bit longer for more details.