Overview
- Nintendo is hinting at enhanced versions of original Switch games for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, as indicated on their Virtual Game Card webpage.
- The potential for “Switch 2 Edition”games suggests upgrade pathways from previous titles.
- There is growing speculation within the gaming community regarding the nature of these new editions.
The impending Nintendo Switch 2 appears to be on the horizon, with intriguing hints pointing to console-specific game editions found within the Virtual Game Card section of Nintendo’s website. Although comprehensive details remain elusive, this could mark the first substantial indication that enhanced versions of classic titles, released on the original 2017 Switch, will be available on the new console.
For some time, Nintendo Switch enthusiasts have been on the lookout for information about the Switch 2. In November 2024, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa confirmed that the new console would support backward compatibility, sparking speculation that it would naturally facilitate upgrade opportunities for games designed for older hardware. Recent findings have potentially shed light on this aspect.
According to insights from popular YouTuber ActualAero, a particular detail was uncovered on the Nintendo Virtual Game Card webpage. The webpage highlights several uses for Virtual Game Cards, and among the key points, Nintendo mentions “Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games”and “Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive games”as distinct categories. This detail remains accessible on the site as of now.
Nintendo’s Reference to ‘Switch 2 Edition Games’
The mention of “Nintendo Switch 2 Edition”strongly suggests an upgrade option for multiple games originally released on the earlier Nintendo Switch. Nintendo has clarified that both Switch 2 Exclusive Games and Switch 2 Edition games will only be playable on the new console. This notice appears to be aimed at preventing confusion for original Switch owners who might encounter a situation where a friend shares a Virtual Game Card for a title they already own. Such information inadvertently amplifies excitement about a long-anticipated feature among Nintendo fans.
The announcement of Switch 2 Editions has led to a flurry of speculation regarding which titles might enjoy these upgrades. With the rumored capabilities of the new console, including DLSS, some enthusiasts expect it could enhance all games automatically. However, a prevailing opinion suggests that Nintendo might implement a pay-for-upgrade model akin to many current PlayStation games, implying that gamers should anticipate additional fees ranging from five to twenty dollars for these enhancements. This possibility fuels excitement for titles like the anticipated demo of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild for the Switch 2, which was showcased at Gamescom 2023. Though this information has emerged sooner than many expected, Nintendo is likely to provide extensive details during its upcoming Direct presentation on April 2.