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Nintendo Switch 2 to Offer Enhanced Versions of Select Switch 1 Titles
Anticipation builds for the Nintendo Switch 2, with confirmation that the new console will not only support backward compatibility for original Switch games but will also feature enhanced editions of select first-party titles. These optimized versions promise a superior gaming experience. Nintendo has announced that initial games receiving upgrades for the Switch 2 include critically acclaimed titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, along with fan favorites like Kirby and the Forgotten Land, Super Mario Party Jamboree, Pokémon Legends Z-A, and the highly awaited Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. These games are set to leverage the advanced capabilities of the Switch 2 for improved gameplay.
Enhanced Zelda Titles: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom
The updated iterations of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom for Nintendo Switch 2 will boast significant visual and performance improvements. Players can expect enhanced resolution and smoother framerates, along with the addition of High Dynamic Range (HDR) support for richer colors and deeper contrast. Furthermore, these editions will exclusively introduce “Zelda Notes,” a novel feature integrated within the Nintendo Switch app. This tool is designed to assist players with voice navigation in locating hidden Korok seeds and shrines. The feature also enables players to exchange in-game creations using QR codes, facilitating sharing with friends. Both enhanced Zelda titles are slated for release on Switch 2 on June 5.
Upgrade Paths for Existing Owners
Owners of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom who are subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack will benefit from complimentary Switch 2 upgrade packs, providing access to the enhanced versions at no additional cost.
Super Mario Party Jamboree: New Content and Features
The Switch 2 version of Super Mario Party Jamboree introduces “Jamboree TV,” an expansion packed with fresh minigames designed to take advantage of the new console’s hardware. New additions like “Bowser Live” and the motion-controlled “Carnival Coaster” will be included. Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV is set to launch on Switch 2 on July 24, offering a host of new party experiences.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land: Story DLC Expansion
Beyond graphical and framerate enhancements, Kirby and the Forgotten Land will receive exclusive story-driven downloadable content (DLC) on Switch 2, titled “Star-Cross World.” This expansion introduces a dramatic event where a meteor strike transforms the Forgotten Land into a crystallized environment. Players will explore this altered world and encounter newly mutated enemies. Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Cross World is scheduled to arrive on Switch 2 on August 28.
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Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Performance Modes Revealed
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond on Switch 2 will offer gamers flexible control options, including mouse and keyboard support. Performance details include a 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (fps) “Quality Mode” (1080p/60fps HDR in handheld mode) and a 1080p/120fps HDR “Performance Mode” (720p/120fps HDR in handheld mode), allowing players to prioritize visual fidelity or frame rate.
Pokémon Legends Z-A: Enhanced Visuals
Players who experience the upcoming Pokémon Legends Z-A on Switch 2 can anticipate improved resolution and framerates, delivering a more visually engaging Pokémon adventure.
Standalone Editions and Upgrade Packs
The Switch 2 enhanced editions of these titles will be available for purchase as standalone copies, both physically and digitally. Alternatively, owners of the original Switch versions will have the option to acquire an Upgrade Pack to access the new and improved editions. Nintendo has yet to announce pricing details for either the Upgrade Packs or the standalone versions.
Free Performance Updates for More Switch 1 Games
In addition to dedicated enhanced editions, Nintendo has also confirmed that several other existing Switch 1 games will receive complimentary updates to optimize their performance on Switch 2 via backward compatibility. These games include:
- Arms
- Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
- Super Mario Odyssey
- Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
- Clubhouse Games 51 Worldwide Classics
- The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
- The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
- Game Builder Garage
- New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
- Pokémon Scarlet & Pokémon Violet
- Big Brain Academy Brain vs Brain
Nintendo has indicated that specific improvements from these updates may vary per game. They stated, “By connecting your Nintendo Switch 2 to the internet, you can download free updates that may improve performance or add support for features such as GameShare in select games. The contents of these free updates will differ depending on the game.” Gamers should expect to see varied enhancements depending on the title.