"Nintendo Switch 2 Enhances Original Games"

The Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and as anticipated, it boasts substantial backward compatibility with games from the original Switch. However, Nintendo is going above and beyond by offering specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2. These enhancements go beyond mere graphical upgrades and frame rate improvements, providing players with a more enriched gaming experience.

Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three groups: Native Switch 2 games, exclusively designed for the new console; Compatible Switch 1 games, which you can play directly on the Switch 2 using their original cartridges; and Switch 2 Edition games, which are upgraded versions of Switch 1 titles with new features and performance enhancements.

This classification does not include the classic games accessible through Nintendo Switch Online, which offers a vast library from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now the GameCube.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

The key highlight from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is Nintendo's commitment to enhancing the gaming experience for those who play Switch 2 Editions of Switch 1 games.

Take Super Mario Party Jamboree, for instance. The Switch 2 Edition introduces Jamboree TV, a new suite of content that utilizes the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, Switch 2's built-in microphone, and an optional USB-C camera. Alongside this, the game will feature enhanced resolution up to 1440p in TV mode, improved frame rates, new minigames, and enhanced online functions.

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

Other Switch 2 Edition titles, 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 gain additional support through the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing in-game guides and assistance.

Games like Pokemon Legends: Z-A will focus primarily on performance and resolution enhancements for their Switch 2 Edition.

When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?

The Nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025, which coincides with the launch of the first batch of Switch 2 Edition games.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will launch their Switch 2 Editions on the console's release day, June 5, 2025.

Subsequent releases include Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV on July 24, 2025, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land's update on August 28, 2025.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A are expected to arrive later in 2025, though specific dates have not yet been announced.

The cost of Switch 2 Editions varies. For those who don't own the Switch 1 version, the Switch 2 Edition can be purchased at retail, featuring a distinctive red-colored physical case. Digital versions will also be clearly marked with a Switch 2 logo.

For existing Switch 1 game owners looking to upgrade, Nintendo offers upgrade packs, available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and Nintendo eShop. The price for these upgrade packs has not been disclosed yet.

Some upgrade packs, such as those for the Switch 2 Editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, will be included with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, which also provides 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 an exciting upgrade for gamers, with Nintendo ensuring a smooth transition to the new console through backward compatibility and enhanced game versions. Nintendo aims to enrich its launch library with these improved versions of beloved Switch classics.

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