Nintendo Switch 2 Enhances Original Games

The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and as previously reported, it boasts impressive backward compatibility with Switch 1 games. However, Nintendo is taking things a step further by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2. These enhancements go beyond mere graphical upgrades and framerate improvements, offering a richer gaming experience.

What Games are Playable on Switch 2?

Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three types: Native Switch 2 games, which are exclusively developed for the new console and cannot be played on the original Switch; Compatible Switch 1 games, which can be directly played on the Switch 2 using their original cartridges; and Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 titles with new features and performance upgrades.

This classification does not include the classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which features a library spanning the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now the GameCube.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

During the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, it became clear that Nintendo is eager to enhance the gaming experience for players opting for the Switch 2 Edition of Switch 1 games. For instance, Super Mario Party Jamboree, originally a Switch game, will receive a Switch 2 Edition with a new feature called Jamboree TV. This will utilize the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and the separately sold Switch 2 USB-C camera.

In addition to an upgraded resolution of up to 1440p in TV mode and enhanced frame rates, new minigames and online functions will be added. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will support mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes, such as Quality Mode (60fps at 4K when docked, 1080p at 60fps in handheld) and Performance Mode (120fps at 1080p when docked, 120fps at 720p in handheld), all with HDR support.

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 include additional support for the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing guides and game assistance. Meanwhile, Pokemon Legends: Z-A will focus 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 initial batch 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 receive their Switch 2 Editions on the console's launch day.

Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV and Kirby and the Forgotten Land's update will follow on July 24, 2025, and August 28, 2025, respectively. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A are expected to launch their Switch 2 Editions sometime in 2025, though specific dates have not yet 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 the new red-colored physical game case and a prominent Switch 2 logo on digital versions.

For those who already own the Switch 1 version and want the enhanced features, an upgrade pack will be available for purchase from select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. The pricing for these upgrade packs has not been disclosed yet.

Notably, the upgrade packs for The Legend of Zelda: 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 the classic game library.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions

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That's everything you need to know about the Switch 2 Editions of games. Nintendo is ensuring a seamless transition to the Switch 2 with its backward compatibility and is enhancing its launch library with improved versions of beloved Switch classics.

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