During today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo unveiled exciting details about the compatibility of the Nintendo Switch catalog with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. While nearly all Nintendo Switch games will be playable on the new console, a select group of titles will receive enhanced "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" versions, boasting unique features and upgrades.
The presentation kicked off with Super Mario Party: Jamboree, which is set to introduce a new feature called "Jamboree TV". This upgrade will include mouse controls, audio recognition, "more expressive rumble", and innovative gameplay utilizing a new camera accessory, promising to elevate the party experience.
Next up were The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, both slated for enhanced resolution, higher framerates, and HDR support. Additionally, these games will benefit from a new service on the Nintendo Switch Online app called Zelda Notes, which offers voice guidance to help players locate Shrines and Koroks. Players can also share their creations in Tears of the Kingdom via QR codes with friends, adding a social element to the adventure.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land is also getting a significant upgrade with a new story exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, titled "Star-Crossed World", alongside improved graphics and framerates, ensuring a richer experience for Kirby fans.
Two eagerly anticipated titles, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A, will also receive enhanced versions. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will feature mouse control capabilities, 4K resolution at 60fps, and HDR, while Pokemon Legends: Z-A will boast better resolution and framerates, enhancing the visual and gameplay experience.
These upgraded games will be available in both physical and digital formats. For owners of the original versions on the Nintendo Switch, upgrade packs will be available for Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom, Mario Party, and Kirby, allowing them to enjoy the new features at a reduced cost.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Nintendo Switch Editions
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Later in the presentation, Nintendo also revealed that several third-party games will receive Nintendo Switch 2 Editions. Notable titles include Civilization 7, which will support mouse controls, and Street Fighter 6, which will feature exclusive game modes for the Switch 2.
The concept of "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" games was first hinted at last week when a webpage mentioned these enhanced versions in a footnote related to the newly announced Virtual Game Card system. The footnote clarified that such games would not be transferable via Virtual Game Card to the original Nintendo Switch.
For a comprehensive overview of all the announcements from today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, you can find more details right here.
