Nintendo Switch 2 launches this June and is backwards compatible with an extensive list of Switch 1 games. While some of these titles will receive paid upgraded editions for Switch 2, a number will also get free updates for the new console.
As detailed on the official Nintendo Switch 2 website, Nintendo will release updates for select Switch 1 games to “improve playability” on Switch 2. According to the company, the exact specifics of the updates will vary by title, but they “may improve performance or add support for features such as GameShare in select games.”
Nintendo has confirmed that the following Switch 1 games will receive free Switch 2 updates:
- Arms
- Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain
- Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
- Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics
- Game Builder Garage
- New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
- Pokemon Scarlet
- Pokemon Violet
- Super Mario Odyssey
- Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
- The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
- The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
As previously mentioned, Nintendo will also release paid Switch 2 editions of certain Switch 1 games such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and Super Mario Party Jamboree. These updates will be more substantial and will include new features and functionality, such as Joy-Con mouse support and even additional content.
Nintendo has not announced pricing details for these paid upgrades. However, the company confirmed that the Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom upgrade packs will be free for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members.
Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5 and retails for $450 USD. Arriving alongside the system is the latest entry in the Mario Kart series, Mario Kart World, as well as a selection of GameCube games for Nintendo Switch Online members. A new 3D Donkey Kong game and a Kirby Air Ride sequel are also on the way later this year.
Nintendo Switch 2 preorders will open on April 9. You can catch up on other news from today’s Nintendo Direct in our roundup of all the biggest Nintendo Switch 2 announcements.