The Nintendo Switch’s lifecycle is drawing to a close, leaving behind a vast library of incredible games. From iconic franchises like Zelda and Mario to beloved titles like Animal Crossing and Metroid, the Switch boasts a diverse catalog. With the highly anticipated Switch 2 on the horizon, many wonder about the fate of their existing game collections. This new console, maintaining the hybrid handheld/home console design, promises enhanced power and performance. But will backwards compatibility allow players to seamlessly transition to the Switch 2 without abandoning their current libraries? Let’s explore the official information regarding Switch 2 backwards compatibility.
Will the Switch 2 Play Switch Games?
The Switch 2 and Switch side by side.
Yes, the Switch 2 is backwards compatible! Nintendo has confirmed that players can enjoy their existing Switch game libraries on the new console. Both physical game cartridges and digital downloads will be playable on the Switch 2. By logging in with your Nintendo account, you can access your digital library and download previously purchased games. Physical cartridges will function as expected, simply insert and play.
Performance and Unsupported Titles
Currently, details regarding potential performance or visual enhancements for original Switch games running on the Switch 2 remain scarce. While backwards compatibility is confirmed, Nintendo has indicated that a small number of titles may not be supported on the new hardware. Specific unsupported games are yet to be announced.
