(Image credit: Nintendo)
Before yesterday’s Nintendo Direct, Nintendo firmly stated that the event would not include news about the Switch 2. However, the conclusion of one unexpected announcement might have inadvertently disclosed a significant detail about their upcoming console and the games it will feature. Specifically, it seems Nintendo might be indicating that Switch 2 versions of existing Switch 1 games are in the pipeline.
Amidst revelations about games like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and a fresh Rhythm Heaven entry, Nintendo introduced Virtual Game Cards — a function allowing the sharing of digital games across multiple consoles and with friends and family. This new feature is slated for a late April rollout on current Switch models and on the Switch 2 in the future. But it’s the small print regarding its compatibility with the impending console that is garnering attention.
“Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games can only be loaded on a Nintendo Switch 2 system,” reads Nintendo’s webpage on the new feature. While the existence of Switch 2 exclusive games was already known, the mention of Switch 2 edition games as distinct suggests a variation that will already exist in some other form.
We previously learned that the Switch 2 will offer backwards compatibility with Switch 1 games — most of them, anyway. Yet, this revelation implies it might not just involve playing these games with the same experience as on the prior console. Could this mean Nintendo is planning new-gen upgrades similar to those on the PS5 and Xbox Series X, or possibly releasing improved Switch 2 iterations of upcoming titles like Pokemon Legends: Z-A alongside their standard Switch versions?
Alternatively, a Switch 2 edition game might simply denote a title’s Switch 2 release that’s also launching on platforms like PlayStation or Xbox. For now, we await more details — there’s a promising chance for clarification during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct airing on April 2.
Don’t miss any of yesterday’s Nintendo announcements in our comprehensive March 2025 Nintendo Direct roundup. Stay informed with weekly updates, stories from your favorite communities, and more.