"Nintendo Switch 2 Enhances Original Games"

The long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and as previously reported, it boasts impressive backward compatibility with games from the original Switch. But Nintendo isn't stopping there—they're rolling out specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games for the Switch 2, which promise more than just a simple graphical and framerate upgrade.

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

Nintendo has categorized the games playable on the Switch 2 into three distinct types. First, there are native Switch 2 games, designed specifically for the new console and not playable on the original Switch. Second, compatible Switch 1 games, where you can simply insert the cartridges into the Switch 2 and play them natively. Finally, Switch 2 Edition games, which are enhanced versions of Switch 1 games, offering new features and performance upgrades when played on the Switch 2.

This categorization does not include the classic games available through Nintendo Switch Online, which offers a rich library from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now even the GameCube.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

Nintendo's latest Switch 2 Direct has highlighted the additional perks that come with playing a Switch 2 Edition of a Switch 1 game. Take, for example, Super Mario Party Jamboree. The Switch 2 Edition introduces Jamboree TV, utilizing the Joy-Con 2's mouse controls, the Switch 2 microphone, and an optional USB-C camera.

Along with these new features, you can expect upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode, improved frame rates, fresh minigames, and enhanced online functions.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a cross-gen title, will support mouse controls via the Joy-Con 2 and offer multiple display modes, including Quality Mode at 60fps in 4K when docked or 1080p at 60fps in handheld, and Performance Mode at 120fps in 1080p when docked or 120fps in 720p in handheld. Both modes will feature HDR support.

Other Switch 2 Edition games will include new story content, like 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 benefit from the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App, providing guides and in-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 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 have their Switch 2 Editions available 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 remain unannounced.

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

Pricing for Switch 2 Editions varies. If you don't own the Switch 1 version, you can purchase the Switch 2 Edition in a new red-colored physical game case, or opt for the digital version marked with a distinctive Switch 2 logo.

For those who already own the Switch 1 version and want the enhanced Switch 2 Edition features, you'll need to buy an upgrade pack from Nintendo. These packs will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and Nintendo eShop. The cost of these upgrade packs has yet to be disclosed.

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 provides access to online features and a classic game library.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions

4 ImagesThat's everything you need to know about the Switch 2 Editions of games. Nintendo is ensuring a smooth transition to the Switch 2 with its backward compatibility and enhanced versions of beloved Switch classics.

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