Nintendo has recently unveiled exciting information regarding the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, particularly emphasizing its backward compatibility. The new console will support many previously released Switch games and accessories, including Joy-Cons and the Pro Controller.
Let’s explore all the latest details surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 and what fans can expect.
1. Comprehensive Overview of Nintendo Switch 2 Backward Compatibility
Takuhiro Dohta, the Switch 2 director, revealed that the primary focus for the console was performance enhancement, which resulted in backward compatibility being a secondary concern. This shift means that although the Switch 2 will support certain previous games, it faces technical limitations.
The Nintendo Switch 2 employs a hybrid approach, blending software emulation with hardware compatibility. This setup allows the transition of Switch 1 data to a format that the new console can process in real-time. A full-fledged software emulator was deemed impractical due to potential negative impacts on battery performance.
The company has released an initial list of Switch 1 games that will not be supported on the Switch 2. This includes graphically demanding titles like Doom Eternal and certain emulated games such as Arcade Archives. There are also titles like Fall Guys and Alien: Isolation which may encounter in-game compatibility issues.
Out of the extensive library, Nintendo has confirmed compatibility for 122 first-party titles and over 15, 000 third-party games, with ongoing efforts to enhance compatibility and collaboration with developers.
i. Compatible Games with Nintendo Switch 2
Viewers at the Nintendo Switch 2 event were directed to the official Nintendo website for the compatibility details of original Switch titles. The backward compatibility landscape is more intricate than previously anticipated.
A thorough list of tested games has been compiled by Nintendo, indicating that over 100 first-party games and more than 15, 000 third-party titles are functional with the new hardware. Notable titles include:
- Mario Party Jamboree
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
- Pokémon Legends Z-A
(These titles will feature paid upgrades ranging from $10 to $15, introducing new features and significant modifications.)
- ARMS
- Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
- Super Mario Odyssey
- Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
- Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics
- The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
- The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
- Game Builder Garage
- New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
- Pokémon Scarlet
- Purple Pokémon
- Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain
(These games will receive free performance-focused updates, although content updates may differ.)
Interestingly, some initially deemed incompatible, such as Ring Fit Adventure, 1-2-Switch, Game Builder Garage, and Nintendo Switch Sports, are partially functional on the Switch 2 through original Joy-Cons or alternative solutions detailed by Nintendo.
Players can use their original Joy-Cons with the Switch 2 for these games, though note that the Switch 2 won’t charge them.
ii. Incompatible Games with Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo has classified games with compatibility issues into two main categories: “games with startup issues” and “games with in-game compatibility issues.”
Currently, 141 titles are reported to have startup issues, such as:
- Fortnite (Switch 1 version; a dedicated Switch 2 version will be available at launch)
- Dead by Daylight
- Doom: Eternal
- Final Fantasy
- Rocket League
- Warframe
- NBA 2K25
Additionally, 47 titles are noted for in-game compatibility issues, including:
- Alien: Isolation
- Fall Guys
- Harvestella
- Overcooked! All You Can Eat
- Alan Wake: Remastered
- Saints Row IV: Re-Elected
Nintendo commits to actively working on improving these games’ compatibility leading up to the Switch 2’s release in early June. An exception is the VR Labo kit, which will not be supported.
2. Performance of Switch 1 Games on Switch 2
Nintendo does not guarantee enhanced performance or graphical updates for Switch games played on the Switch 2. Players should anticipate developers and publishers to release patches that may improve their games’ performance on the new platform.
Nintendo has laid out two upgrade strategies for first-party titles:
Free Updates
- Selected titles will receive free updates aimed at enhancing gameplay on the Switch 2.
- Enhancements may encompass performance upgrades, support for Switch 2 features like GameShare, and other improvements.
- Updates will be provided for the 12 previously mentioned compatible games.
Paid Upgrades
- Nintendo will offer paid “upgrade packs” for select games, bundled as part of a “Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.”
- Upgrade specifics will vary by game, including enhancements such as improved performance, quicker load times, HDR support, and new content.
- These upgrades have been announced for six previously mentioned compatible games.
3. Storage and Accessory Compatibility of Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 is equipped with 256 GB of internal storage, which can only be expanded using microSD Express cards. While a microSD card from the original Switch can be used in the Switch 2, it will only allow access to saved screenshots and videos.
The Switch 2 is compatible with the majority of accessories from the original Switch, including Joy-Cons and the Pro Controller; however, the original Switch dock is not compatible with the new console.
- Original Switch Joy-Cons can be used wirelessly with the Switch 2 but will need a separate charger.
- The Switch Pro Controller functions wirelessly and can be charged via the Switch 2 dock or USB-C ports.
With these updates, you are now informed about the latest developments regarding Nintendo’s Switch 2.
For further insights, you can view the Nintendo Direct for the Switch 2 streamed live on April 2nd, 2025, here.
Leave a Reply ▼