Nintendo shared more details about the nature of Switch 2 backward compatibility during the dedicated Switch 2 Direct. Subsequently, it published a list of games for the original Switch that might not function correctly on the Switch 2. A set of follow-up interviews with the Switch 2 development team also provided clarification on questions such as what to expect from the Switch 2 eShop and how purchasing original Switch games might work on the new console. Nintendo explained how Switch 2 upgrades will work as well, with games that have a dedicated "Switch 2 Edition" version and those that will have free updates that make smaller improvements.

Table of Contents [hide]

• Can you play Switch games on Switch 2?
• Are all Switch games backwards compatible?

Can you play Switch games on Switch 2?

Nintendo confirmed in a support post that you can play digital and physical Switch games on the Switch 2, with a few exceptions.

The Switch 2 won't support all Switch 1 games.Are all Switch games backwards compatible?

On April 2, Nintendo confirmed that the backwards compatibility support is limited and provided a list of more than 100 games that, as of the Switch 2's June 5 launch, may not work with the new console. Most of these are listed as having "compatibility issues" that developers are "currently investigating." The only game that Nintendo flat-out says won't play on the Switch 2 is the Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04: VR Kit. That kit requires you to insert the Switch tablet into the Toy-Con device, and the Switch 2 tablet is larger than the original Switch. It simply won't fit.

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The Nintendo Switch 2 offers a fairly massive upgrade when it comes to raw storage space. The 256GB onboard SSD is four times larger than the Switch OLED (64GB) and eight times the size of the original Switch and Switch Lite (32GB). That said, the Switch 2's performance upgrades will inevitably lead to bigger file sizes for upcoming games, which could compel you to expand your console's storage capacity. Just like its predecessor, the Nintendo Switch 2 has a microSD card slot. But while the Switch worked with basically every microSD card sold in stores, the Switch 2 is only compatible with a very specific type of storage: microSD Express cards.

See all microSD Express Cards at Amazon

The Express format is a recent advancement in the semiconductor industry that hasn't been widely adopted by manufacturers yet. The Nintendo Switch 2 will certainly increase its adoption rate by both manufacturers and consumers in a hurry. During this week's Nintendo Direct, we learned that both Samsung and SanDisk will be releasing Super Mario-themed microSD Express Cards this year. If you want to get ahead of any potential Switch 2 storage woes, we've put together a brief list and explainer detailing the microSD Express options available now from SanDisk and Lexar. None of the current cards are themed around Nintendo franchises, but you'll probably save some cash by grabbing a non-branded one anyway.

• SanDisk 128GB microSD Express Card -- $45 ($50)
• SanDisk 256GB microSD Express Card -- $60 ($65)
• Lexar 256GB Play Pro microSD Express Card -- $50
• Lexar 512GB Play Pro microSD Express Card -- $100
• Lexar 1TB Play Pro microSD Express Card -- $200

For more on the new console, check out GameSpot's Nintendo Switch 2 preorder guide, which includes all of the first-party hardware and games featured in the Nintendo Direct. Preorders for the Switch 2, its accessories, and a bunch of launch games will open on April 9, and we're only two months out from the console's June 5 launch.

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The original Nintendo Switch's now iconic detachable Joy-Con controllers could have attached to the console magnetically like the Switch 2 Joy-Con 2s, but the idea was shelved during development after late Nintendo President Satoru Iwata was presented with a prototype.

Information about the origin of the idea behind the Switch 2's newly revealed magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers come from a four-part developer interview posted on Nintendo's website diving into the Switch 2's creation. In part two of the interview, Kouichi Kawamoto, a producer at Nintendo's entertainment planning and development department, shared why the magnetic Joy-Con idea didn't work out for the original Switch.

"I took the prototypes to Iwata-san, the company's President at the time, for feedback," Kawamoto said. "But unfortunately, the Joy-Con controllers would wobble when attached to the console using magnets due to the weak connection. We decided to scrap the idea as we were concerned it would make customers uneasy about using the console."

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Though Nintendo shied away from discussing prices during its Switch 2-focused Direct, we now have our first look at what some of the console's new games will cost, and they're certainly not cheap.

Shortly after the Nintendo Direct ended, Nintendo updated its official website with information pertaining to the upcoming Switch 2 release. In addition to sharing the console's hefty price tag, the site also gave us a bit more insight on how much Switch 2-exclusive games will cost.

Among those shared is Mario Kart World, which is arguably the biggest day-one selling-point for the console. According to Nintendo's North American website, the suggested retail price for the title is $80, though it notes that the "actual price may vary." To make matters more interesting, however, a visit to Nintendo's Spanish website reveals two prices for Mario Kart World: €80 for digital copies and a staggering €90 for physical editions. Conversation rates aside--though it should be noted that €90 is nearly $100--this seems to indicates that America will also see a pricing difference between digital and physical versions, meaning Mario Kart World is at least $80.

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Certain physical Nintendo Switch 2 games will be digital downloads that use a new feature called Game-Key Cards, Nintendo has revealed.

Why a particular game may use a Game-Key Card instead of a regular Nintendo Switch 2 game cartridge is unclear, but a page on the Nintendo customer support page breaks down how it will all work. Information about the Game-Key Card system didn't appear in the recent Switch 2 Nintendo Direct but instead appeared online via Nintendo's website after the broadcast.

Unlike a regular physical game cartridge, Game-Key Cards don't include game data but are instead a "key" that can be used to download and later access a particular game. The Game-Key Card is required even after that game has been downloaded and installed and is in many ways treated just like a normal game cartridge, minus the console actually running the game off it.

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Nintendo offered a closer look at the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 during its latest Nintendo Direct presentation, showcasing the system's hardware and new features. Afterward, the company detailed some of the console's specs, including its battery life.

According to a spec sheet on the official Nintendo website, Switch 2's battery life will last between 2-6.5 hours on a single charge. Nintendo says this range is a "rough estimate" and will vary depending on a number of conditions, including what games you are playing. The company also confirmed that it will take approximately three hours to fully charge a Switch 2 when it's in sleep mode.

For reference, Switch 2's battery life is roughly in the same ballpark as the original Switch when it first launched back in March 2017. The launch model's battery lasted between 2.5-6.5 hours on a single charge, while the revised model, released in 2019, improved battery life to 4.5-9 hours. The Switch OLED model similarly lasts between 4.5-9 hours on a single charge.

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Nintendo has officially revealed the Switch 2, which launches on June 5 and carries a $450 price tag. That makes it a fairly hefty investment--and if you plan to lug the handheld console around with you, it's a good idea to pair it with a carrying case. A bunch of third-party cases are already popping up at Amazon, but the best option might be picking up the official Switch 2 Carrying Case from Nintendo. There's also an All-In One Carrying Case large enough to accommodate multiple accessories, giving you two ways to transport your console. Preorders are expected to open on April 9 alongside Switch 2 preorders--here's a closer look at both.

Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case $35

The Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case was crafted specifically for the upcoming console. Along with a sturdy exterior shell, the case is bundled with a screen protector and cleaning cloth. And since the screen has ballooned to an impressive 7.9-inches (compared to 6.2 for the original Switch and 7 inches for Switch OLED), these should help you keep it free from scratches and fingerprints.

The case is equipped with two large zippers that mimic the red and blue design of the Joy-Con, and they bring a nice pop of color to an otherwise understated accessory. Much like the existing carrying case for Switch, this should be a good option for anyone looking to keep their Switch 2 safe while stowed in a backpack or suitcase.

See at the Nintendo Store Nintendo Switch 2 All-In One Carrying Case $80

Plan on traveling with not just your Switch 2, but all of its accessories? Then take a look at the All-In-One Carrying Case. Offering much more space than the above case, it's capable of packing in the following gear:

• Nintendo Switch 2 system
• Switch 2 dock
• Joy-Con 2 controllers
• Various cables
• Up to six game cards

Sporting a design that looks a bit like a GameCube, it's a convenient way to bring your entire Switch 2 setup with you wherever you go. Inside are a variety of dividers to keep everything organized, while a mesh net in the lid lets you pack cables and smaller gear.

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Nintendo Switch 2 launches this June and is backwards compatible with an extensive list of Switch 1 games. While some of these titles will receive paid upgraded editions for Switch 2, a number will also get free updates for the new console.

As detailed on the official Nintendo Switch 2 website, Nintendo will release updates for select Switch 1 games to "improve playability" on Switch 2. According to the company, the exact specifics of the updates will vary by title, but they "may improve performance or add support for features such as GameShare in select games."

Nintendo has confirmed that the following Switch 1 games will receive free Switch 2 updates:

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If you tried to boot up Call of Duty: Warzone today, only to encounter an error message saying the game is offline and unplayable, there is no cause for panic or alarm. The popular battle royale game was taken offline today, April 2, for a period of 24 hours as Activision prepares to bring back Warzone's OG map, Verdansk.

Warzone's servers were taken offline today, April 2, at 9 AM PT / 12 PM ET. The Warzone tile from the menu now displays a "Countdown to Verdansk launch" timer that will run for 24 hours. On April 3 at 9 AM PT / 12 PM ET, Verdansk will go live--this assumes the schedule holds and nothing goes awry.

While Warzone may be offline for 24 hours, Black Ops 6's new Season 3 update is available now, ushering in new multiplayer and Zombies content. Any Warzone fans who still want to play Call of Duty during the 24-hour downtime can play Black Ops 6 multiplayer and Zombies for free, and this includes the new Season 3 content that just went live today.

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Mario Kart World is launching on June 5 alongside the Nintendo Switch 2, and it's looking like another great installment in the beloved franchise. And if you're going to be picking it up later this year, consider snagging the official Joy-Con 2 Wheel from Nintendo. A two-pack will cost just $20, making it a solid choice for local multiplayer matches.

Joy-Con 2 Wheel (Set of Two) $20

Designed specifically for the updated Joy-Con 2, this accessory is a nice companion for all sorts of racing games on Switch 2. It includes a light blue and light red wheel, giving you and a friend a more immersive way to race. And since it uses a magnetic connection to lock the Joy-Con into place, you won't have to worry about it shaking loose during the heat of battle.

We're expecting preorders to open on April 9--the same date they open for Switch 2.

See at the Nintendo Store

Mario Kart World is going to be quite expensive at $80--so it's nice that this optional pack of Joy-Con 2 Wheels is quite affordable. A cheaper way to get the game is by bundling it with the Switch 2 console, as the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle costs $500. The standalone console is priced at $450, so you're essentially saving $30 when bundled together.

Nintendo revealed heaps of other accessories for Switch 2, including an updated Switch 2 Pro Controller with new back buttons, Joy-Con that can function as a mouse, and a Charging Grip to help keep your Joy-Con juiced up for your next play session. There's also a Nintendo Switch 2 Camera built for GameChat, so you can easily connect with friends without needing the companion mobile app.

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ZenGrip 2

$40 (was $50) | Releases Spring 2025

Preoder ZenGrip 2 at Satisfye Preorder ZenGrip 2 with Carrying Case at Satisye

Dbrand Killswitch for Switch 2

$3 to reserve a unit | Releases Spring 2025

Preorder at Dbrand

The Switch 2 officially launches on June 5, and just like previous Nintendo consoles, there'll be a wide range of official accessories to purchase alongside it, including new Switch 2 Grips from third-party manufacturers Dbrand and Satisfye. The design differs between the grips from the two brands. Dbrand's Killswitch Grip for Switch 2 is a wrap-around protective case, while Satisfye's new ZenGrip 2 slides on and off the new handheld, matching the design the company's Switch 1 grips, while also allowing you to keep it on while the console is docked. Preorders are available for both models and are expected to ship soon.

ZenGrip 2 $40 (was $50) | Releases Spring 2025

Like other ZenGrip models, ,Satisfye's ZenGrip 2 is designed to make playing on a Switch 2 more comfortable with its handles. The grip slides on the Switch 2 and is designed so you can still place the console into Switch 2 dock even while the grip is attached. The ZenGrip 2 will be available on its own for $50 or with a carrying case included that is priced at $70. Additionally, you can save 20% by using the code FOUNDER20 when you check out, which will drop the price for the ZenGrip 2 to $40 and $56 for the carrying case bundle.

• ZenGrip 2 -- $40 ($50)
• ZenGrip 2 and carrying case -- $56 ($70)

Preoder ZenGrip 2 at Satisfye Preorder ZenGrip 2 with Carrying Case at Satisye Dbrand Killswitch for Switch 2 $3 to reserve a unit | Releases Spring 2025

Dbrand's Killswitch grip for Switch 2 works more like a case that covers the body of the Switch 2 and adds ergonomic handles to the new Joy-Cons, but you'll still be able to detach the Joy-Cons and use the kickstand. Dbrand hasn't revealed pricing yet for it, but you can reserve one of these for $3 right now. That reservation price will also be subtracted from the final purchase.

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Beyond third-party accessories, you can also pick up official gear straight from the Nintendo store. This includes the new Switch 2 Pro Controller, the Switch 2 camera, and extra Joy-Con controllers. Pricing has also been revealed for each item, so you can budget accordingly in the months leading up to the Switch 2 release in June. Here's a closer look at all the official accessories revealed thus far:

Switch 2 Accessories

• Switch 2 Pro Controller -- $80
• Switch 2 Camera -- $50
• Joy-Con 2 Controllers (2-Pack) -- $90
• Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip -- $35
• Joy-Con 2 Straps (2-Pack) -- $13
• Joy-Con 2 Racing Wheels (2-Pack) -- $20
• Switch 2 Dock Set -- $110
• Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector -- $35
• Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case -- $80
• Switch 2 AC Adapter -- $30

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Nintendo Switch 2

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Nintendo never considered making the Switch 2 a piece of "high-performance hardware" aimed at consumers who wanted more-powerful tech. Takuhiro Dohta from Nintendo's Entertainment Planning and Development Department made the comments in part of the company's lengthy Q&A session following the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct.

A Nintendo representative asked Dohta and Kouichi Kawamoto, also from the Entertainment Planning and Development Department, why the team decided to call the system the Switch 2. Kawamoto said the team toyed with the idea of calling it the Super Nintendo Switch, but in addition to Nintendo already having a system with "Super" as a descriptor--Super Nintendo--the team didn't want people to focus on the console's specifications.

"Switch 2 is a new system with improved performance, but we'd like players who get their hands on it not to focus on the specs, but rather to think of it as the latest system developed by Nintendo," Kawamoto said. "So, in the hope that it becomes the new standard for Nintendo Switch, we named it Nintendo Switch 2."

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Nintendo pulled back the curtain on its anticipated Switch successor, the Nintendo Switch 2, during its lengthy April Nintendo Direct presentation. In addition to giving fans a closer look at the hardware itself, Nintendo confirmed that Switch 1 owners will be able to transfer their system data over to the upcoming console.

According to the company, you can move your data from the original Switch to the Switch 2 by logging in to your Nintendo Account and using the System Transfer feature. This will transfer your game saves, digital titles, user profiles, screenshots you've taken, and other data (such as your settings and parental controls) to the new console.

As detailed on the Switch 2 transfer guide website, you will need to have an active internet connection to perform a system transfer. Once the transfer is complete, digital Switch 1 titles you own will be automatically redownloaded on Switch 2, allowing you to pick up where you left off on the new system.

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Bravely Default will finally break free of the Nintendo 3DS, with an HD remaster of the turn-based JRPG set to release on the Nintendo Switch 2 as a launch title.

Officially titled Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster (a reference to the game's original subtitle in Japan), the game will feature remastered visuals, a redesigned UI, upgraded online compatibility, quality-of-life features like the ability to speed up battles, and two new minigames that take advantage of the Switch 2's Joy-Con 2 mouse functionality, according to a trailer shown during the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct. Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, and the Switch 2, will release June 5.

Bravely Default brings to mind classic Final Fantasy titles, as a group of warriors of light seek to defeat evil and restore light to the four crystals that maintain peace and balance in the world of Luxendarc. The game features turn-based combat and a job system where players can mix and match different jobs and abilities to create unique party compositions. The game's title refers to its battle system, where Brave Points can be spent to increase the number of actions per turn. Alternatively, players can "Default" to stock up on actions and shore up their defenses.

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Nintendo Switch 2 releases on June 5, and it's shaping up to be an impressive successor to the existing Nintendo Switch. A bunch of new accessories are arriving for the handheld console, including new Joy-Con, an updated Charging Grip, and the Joy-Con 2 Wheel that's ideal for the upcoming Mario Kart World. Preorders for Switch 2 go live on April 9, and we're expecting the same for all the upcoming accessories.

Joy-Con 2 Controllers $90

The new Joy-Con are going to be a bit more expensive than their predecessors, which were priced starting at $80. However, the Joy-Con 2 make some nice improvements. Along with motion controls and HD Rumble 2, you'll find a new C button to quickly access the GameChat feature. They can also be used as a mouse for certain games, with your movements tracked as you scroll it across a flat surface. You'll also find slightly larger bumper buttons for easier access when using a single Joy-Con, which should make it less painful to share with a friend.

This set includes a left and right Joy-Con, plus a pair of Joy-Con 2 straps. Note that these are only compatible with Nintendo Switch 2. You can also purchase Joy-Con 2 (L) and Joy-Con 2 (R) separately, though pricing is yet to be confirmed. Expect a single Joy-Con to cost around $45.

A pair of Joy-Con and straps are included with your Switch 2 console.

See more at the Nintendo Store Charging Grip $35

For a more traditional gamepad experience, the Joy-Con 2 can be connected to the Charging Grip. Along with a USB-C cable and charging port to juice up your Joy-Con, the Charging Grip features two customizable back buttons--a feature that's also found on the new Switch 2 Pro Controller.

While the Joy-Con 2 are included with your Switch 2 purchase, the Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip is sold separately. It also cannot be used with the original Switch Joy-Con.

See more at the Nintendo Store Joy-Con 2 Wheel (Set of Two) $20

If you're planning to play Mario Kart World--which can be bundled with your Switch 2 console--consider picking up the Joy-Con 2 Wheel. This two-pack includes a red and blue wheel that's perfect for local multiplayer, and a magnetic connection helps keep your Joy-Con 2 in place no matter how wild you drive. These only work with the new Joy-Con 2 and not the existing Joy-Con.

See more at the Nintendo Store Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector $35

Carry your Switch 2 in style with this official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case. Along with a sturdy exterior and two colorful zippers for quick access, you'll get a screen protector and cleaning cloth as a bonus.

See more at the Nintendo Store Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case $80

Want to lug your entire Switch 2 system around with you? Then pick up the All-In-One Carrying Case. Designed with enough space for your Switch 2, docking station, Joy-Con 2, cables, and six game cards, it's a compact way to bring your whole setup on the road.

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Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade will release on Nintendo Switch 2 as one of many third-party games announced for the console.

As of writing, specific details are scant. There is no price point or release date for the game's Switch 2 port. In a short video segment, which was part of the April Nintendo Direct, Square Enix director Naoki Hamaguchi promised "more updates on the Final Fantasy VII Remake project for Switch 2." What exactly this statement means is unknown. Perhaps the sequel, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, will also see a Switch 2 port. The aforementioned video segment showed off a couple early portions of the game, with principle characters Cloud and Barrett fighting robots. Other third-party games releasing on the Switch 2 include Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, Sid Meier's Civilization VII, and Borderlands 4.

For anyone unaware, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade originally released in 2021 as a PC port and PS5 upgrade for the erstwhile PS4 exclusive. It improved graphical features and added a mini-story featuring party member Yuffie. Final Fantasy 7 Remake is a partial remake of the classic game, covering the party's journey through the city of Midgar.

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Nintendo has confirmed that it explored "a lot of ideas" for what to called the Switch 2 before landing on that name. In an Ask the Developer interview published on Nintendo's website, Switch 2 producer Kouichi Kawamoto said Nintendo's teams had a difficult time coming up with a name for the console.

"There were a lot of ideas for the name, and we really struggled to find the right one," he said.

One of the ideas that Nintendo considered was "Super Nintendo Switch." Nintendo decided against this, however, because it "didn't feel right to use the same naming convention as the Super NES."

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