The Nintendo Switch 2 enhances the performance of original Nintendo Switch games, making them run smoother than ever. While this isn’t applicable to every title, many games benefit enough to recommend considering an upgrade to the Switch 2 at launch, even with a limited lineup of new games initially available.
This guide will explain how to upgrade your Switch 1 games for the Switch 2 and outline the improvements for the major games that receive significant updates. Once you’re done reading, get ready to revisit those classic titles!
How to Upgrade Switch 1 Games for Switch 2
The enhancements for Switch 1 games fall into three main categories:
- Minor performance improvements: These updates are subtle, and Nintendo hasn’t specifically highlighted them.
- Significant improvements: These enhancements are noteworthy enough for Nintendo to mention directly.
- Exclusive purchasable upgrades for Switch 2: Although limited in number, these upgrades offer the most substantial enhancements.
Even without purchasing the upgrades, you’ll still benefit from at least the minor improvements just by playing those games on the Switch 2.
Games with Minor Improvements
For most Switch 1 games, you can play them on the Switch 2 with no additional downloads required. We’ve experienced more stable performance in recent titles, such as Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition, where the hitches are missing and image quality has improved.
This is a widespread enhancement, so if you’re playing a Switch 1 game on the Switch 2, there’s a good chance you’ll notice some improvement, even if it’s minor.
Nintendo is also rolling out software updates for some of the titles with minor improvements. A good example is that Xenoblade Chronicles 3 has received an update for Switch 2.
To check for updates, press the ‘+’ button while highlighting the game on your home screen and select ‘Software Update’. It’s always a good idea to do this for any Switch 1 game you load onto your Switch 2.
Games with Major Improvements
Additionally, there are 20 games (with more potentially on the way) that showcase more significant upgrades:
- 51 Worldwide Games
- ARMS
- Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain
- Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
- Game Builder Garage
- New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
- Pokemon Scarlet & Violet
- Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
- Super Mario Odyssey
- The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
- The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
We’ve tested Super Mario Odyssey, and it automatically optimized itself when we installed it through the Virtual Card system, with no additional software update required. However, it’s always wise to double-check.
Super Mario Odyssey has impressed us with enhanced image quality and HDR support, making it feel like a whole new experience. It even supports GameShare, allowing online play with a friend.
Games with Purchasable Upgrades
As of now, there are six games with upgrades available—only two of which are available at launch, while others will roll out later.
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Switch 2 Edition: This version includes support for the new Zelda Notes app, improved frame rates, enhanced resolution, faster loading times, and HDR support.
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition: Also includes all the enhancements listed above.
- Super Mario Party Jamboree Switch 2 Edition: Adds the exclusive Jamboree TV mode and new gameplay features designed for mouse controls, microphones, and cameras. Set to release on July 24, 2025.
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land Nintendo Switch 2 Edition: This version has a new story mode called Star-Crossed World, with improved frame rates and visuals. It’s scheduled for August 28, 2025.
- Pokemon Legends: Z-A Nintendo Switch 2 Edition: This will offer better performance with higher frame rates and resolution when it launches on October 16, 2025.
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Nintendo Switch 2 Edition: Features support for mouse controls, enhanced resolution, faster load times, and HDR. No release date has been announced yet.
For details on how to upgrade to the Switch 2 Editions of these games, please refer to our dedicated guide on the subject.
