No Backwards Compatibility For Nintendo Switch 2 Games

Just yesterday, Nintendo unveiled its upcoming console, the Nintendo Switch 2, through a brief video presentation. While the footage gave us a glimpse of its design and hinted at the next installment of Mario Kart, it left many questions unanswered. However, one vital piece of information stood out: the new system will support both digital and physical games from the original Nintendo Switch. Nonetheless, there’s a point of concern among fans. Nintendo mentioned that some games might not be backward-compatible, but specifics are still unclear.

Although we are in the dark about the exact implications of this, one plausible explanation relates to a somewhat overlooked capability of the original Switch.

While the Nintendo Switch is widely celebrated for its innovative handheld design, it has another distinct feature that was heavily promoted during its launch: the infrared (IR) sensors located on the Joy-Con controllers. Initially, these sensors were intended to showcase unique gameplay mechanics, but they haven’t been utilized as extensively as anticipated. Both Nintendo and third-party developers have released only a limited number of games that take advantage of this feature.

Interestingly, the Nintendo Switch 2 does not seem to incorporate IR sensors, at least not in the same manner as its predecessor. This leads to speculation that several titles may not be fully compatible with the new hardware due to their reliance on the original’s IR functionality.

Games that could be impacted include WarioWare: Move It!, Ring Fit Adventure, 1-2 Switch, Game Builder Garage, Nintendo Labo, Resident Evil Revelations, and Dr. Kawashima’s Brain Training.

That said, it’s still possible some of these games could operate on the Switch 2. For example, Ring Fit Adventure primarily uses infrared sensors to monitor players’ heart rates. However, games like 1-2 Switch rely heavily on IR technology, making their compatibility with the new system less likely.

We’ll need to wait for official clarity on which titles are confirmed to work with the upcoming console. Until then, all eyes will be on the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct set for April 2.