"Nintendo Switch 2 Enhances Original Games"

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously reported, it offers substantial backward compatibility with games from the original Switch. However, Nintendo is taking things a step further by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2. These Switch 2 Editions go beyond mere graphical upgrades and framerate improvements, promising a richer gaming experience.

Nintendo has outlined three categories of games playable on the Switch 2:

1. Native Switch 2 Games: These are titles specifically developed for the Switch 2 and cannot be played on the original Switch.
2. Compatible Switch 1 Games: These are games whose cartridges can be directly used on the Switch 2 and played natively on the new console.
3. Switch 2 Edition Games: These are enhanced versions of Switch 1 games, featuring new features and performance enhancements when played on the Switch 2.

It's important to note that this classification does not include classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which offers a library spanning from NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, to GameCube titles.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct highlighted that Nintendo is keen on providing additional value for players opting for the Switch 2 Edition of a Switch 1 game. For instance, the Switch 2 Edition of Super Mario Party Jamboree includes a new feature called Jamboree TV, which utilizes the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and the separately sold USB-C camera. Alongside these innovations, the game offers upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode, improved frame rates, new minigames, and enhanced online functionalities.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will support mouse controls with the Joy-Con 2 and multiple display modes. Quality Mode allows for 60fps at 4K resolution when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld mode, while Performance Mode offers 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld mode, with HDR support across all modes.

Other Switch 2 Edition titles will introduce new story content, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land's Star-Crossed World add-on. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will integrate with the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing in-game guides and assistance. Meanwhile, Pokémon Legends: Z-A will focus primarily on performance and resolution enhancements.

When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?

The Nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, with the first wave of Switch 2 Edition games launching around the same time. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will both receive their Switch 2 Editions on the console's launch date, June 5, 2025.

The Switch 2 Edition of Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV will follow on July 24, 2025, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s update is scheduled for August 28, 2025. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A are expected to release their Switch 2 Editions sometime in 2025, though specific dates have yet to be announced.

The pricing for Switch 2 Editions varies. If you do not own the Switch 1 version of a game, you can purchase the Switch 2 Edition at retail, identifiable by its new red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will also feature a prominent Switch 2 logo to ensure you're buying the correct edition.

For those who already own the Switch 1 version and wish to access the enhanced features of the Switch 2 Edition, an upgrade pack will be required. These packs will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. The exact cost of these upgrade packs has not yet been disclosed by Nintendo.

Some upgrade packs, such as those for the Switch 2 Editions of The Legend of Zelda: 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 promise to enhance your gaming experience with new features and improved performance. Nintendo's approach to backward compatibility ensures a smooth transition to the new console, while the Switch 2 Editions add exciting new content to beloved Switch classics.

For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, be sure to check out the news from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, along with information on pricing and pre-order availability.