"Nintendo Switch 2 Enhances Original Games"

The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and as previously reported, it offers substantial backward compatibility with games from the original Switch. However, Nintendo is going beyond mere compatibility by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2, which promise more than just graphical and framerate improvements.

Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three distinct types. Firstly, there are native Switch 2 games, designed exclusively for the new console and not playable on the original Switch. Secondly, compatible Switch 1 games that you can insert directly into the Switch 2 and enjoy without any modifications. Lastly, Switch 2 Edition games, which are upgraded versions of Switch 1 titles, featuring new features and performance enhancements tailored for the Switch 2.

It's important to note that this classification does not include the classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which now encompasses titles from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and GameCube.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

The key highlight from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is that Nintendo is enhancing the gaming experience for those playing Switch 2 Editions of Switch 1 games.

Take Super Mario Party Jamboree, for instance. The Switch 2 Edition introduces Jamboree TV, a new set of content utilizing the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's built-in microphone, and an optional USB-C camera. Alongside these new features, players can expect upgraded resolutions up to 1440p in TV mode, improved frame rates, fresh minigames, and enhanced online functionalities.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will support mouse controls with Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes. Quality Mode delivers gameplay at 60fps in 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld mode, while Performance Mode promises 120fps at 1080p when docked or 120fps at 720p in handheld mode. Both modes will support HDR, enhancing the visual experience.

Other Switch 2 Edition games, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land's Star-Crossed World add-on, will include new story content. 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, offering players guides and assistance in-game.

Some titles, like Pokémon Legends: Z-A, will primarily focus on performance and resolution enhancements as part of their Switch 2 Edition offerings.

When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?

The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled for release on June 5, 2025, with the initial batch of Switch 2 Edition games launching around the same time.

On launch day, June 5, 2025, gamers can dive into the Switch 2 Editions of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.

Following closely, Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV will hit the shelves on July 24, 2025, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land's update will be available on August 28, 2025.

While Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A do not have specific release dates yet, both are slated for release sometime in 2025.

Pricing for Switch 2 Editions varies depending on your ownership status. If you're new to these games, you can buy the Switch 2 Edition at retail, easily identifiable by its distinctive red-colored game case. Digital versions will prominently feature the Switch 2 logo, ensuring you purchase the correct edition.

For existing owners of the Switch 1 versions seeking the new enhancements, Nintendo offers upgrade packs. These can be purchased at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. Pricing details for these upgrade packs are yet to be disclosed.

Notably, some upgrade packs, such as those for 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 library of classic games.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions

4 ImagesIn summary, the Switch 2 Editions promise an enriched gaming experience, building on the success of Switch 1 titles with new features and enhanced performance. Nintendo's approach to backward compatibility and these enhanced editions ensures a smooth transition to the Switch 2, enhancing its launch library with updated versions of beloved classics.

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