Nintendo Switch 2 Enhances Original Games

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as previously announced, it boasts impressive backward compatibility with games from the original Switch. However, Nintendo is going a step further by introducing specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2. These "Switch 2 Editions" aren't just about graphical improvements and smoother framerates; they promise a host of new features and enhancements.

**What Games are Playable on Switch 2?** ----------------------------------------

Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three distinct types: native Switch 2 games, which are exclusively designed for the new console; compatible Switch 1 games, where you can simply insert the cartridge and play on the Switch 2; and Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 titles with new features and performance boosts.

It's worth noting that this classification does not include the classic games accessible through the Nintendo Switch Online service, which offers a rich library spanning from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, to the newly added GameCube titles.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct highlighted that Switch 2 Edition games offer more than just a simple upgrade. For instance, the Switch 2 Edition of Super Mario Party Jamboree introduces Jamboree TV, a new suite of content that leverages the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2's microphone, and a separately sold USB-C camera. Alongside these, you'll enjoy upgraded resolutions up to 1440p in TV mode, enhanced frame rates, new minigames, and expanded online functionalities.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, set to be a cross-gen title, will support Joy-Con 2 mouse controls and offer multiple display modes: Quality Mode delivers 60fps at 4K when docked, or 1080p at 60fps in handheld; Performance Mode offers 120fps at 1080p when docked, or 120fps at 720p in handheld, with HDR support across all modes.

Other Switch 2 Edition games, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land with its 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, providing in-game guides and assistance.

Some titles, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will focus solely on performance and resolution enhancements for their Switch 2 Editions.

When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?

The Nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, and that's when the first wave of Switch 2 Edition games will be available. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will launch their Switch 2 Editions on the same day.

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

**How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?** -----------------------------------------

Pricing for Switch 2 Editions varies. If you're new to the game, you can buy the Switch 2 Edition at retail, easily identified by its distinctive red-colored physical game case. Digital versions will feature a prominent Switch 2 logo for clear identification.

For those who already own the Switch 1 version, an upgrade pack will be available to access the new features. These upgrade packs can be purchased from select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and the Nintendo eShop. The exact cost of these packs has not been disclosed yet.

Notably, upgrades for Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will be included in the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, which also provides 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 to elevate your gaming experience with significant enhancements and new content. Nintendo's commitment to backward compatibility ensures a smooth transition to the new console, while the Switch 2 Editions add a fresh twist to beloved classics.

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