Feed aggregator
Jin & Jan
Is Switch 2 Backwards Compatible? Here's Which Games Have Issues Or Don't Work
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?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.
Continue Reading at GameSpotMicroSD Express Cards For Nintendo Switch 2 - Here Are Your Options
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 AmazonThe 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.
Continue Reading at GameSpotNintendo Switch Could Have Had Magnetic Joy-Cons Like Switch 2
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."
Continue Reading at GameSpotNintendo Switch 2 Game Prices Reach Staggering $80
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.
Continue Reading at GameSpotCertain Nintendo Switch 2 Physical Games Are "Game-Key Cards" For Downloads
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.
Continue Reading at GameSpotHere's How Long Nintendo Switch 2's Battery Life Lasts
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.
Continue Reading at GameSpotProtect Your Nintendo Switch 2 With These Official Carrying Cases
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 $80Plan 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.
See at Nintendo StoreMore Gaming, Tech, and Entertainment Deals & Preorders
- Lego Mario Kart Building Sets Get Nice Discounts At Amazon
- Pac-Man Fans Can Preorder Shadow Labyrinth Secret Edition For Only $60
- Lord Of The Rings: The Two Towers 4K Steelbook Edition Is Up For Preorder
- + Show More More Gaming, Tech, and Entertainment Deals & Preorders Links (5)
- Amazon Sci-Fi And Fantasy Spring Book Sale - Save Big On Popular Box Sets
- James Bond Sean Connery 4K Steelbook Collection Is Up For Preorder
- Star Wars Skywalker Saga 4K Box Set Featured In Amazon's Spring Sale
- 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Controller Gets Nice Discount A Month After Its Release
- Best 4K Blu-Rays & Box Sets In Amazon's B2G1 Free Big Spring Sale
Some Switch 1 Games Will Get Free Updates On Switch 2
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:
Continue Reading at GameSpotCoD Warzone Servers Down, Here's Why It's Offline And For How Long
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.
Continue Reading at GameSpotPick Up Two Official Joy-Con Wheels For Mario Kart World For Just $20
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.
Continue Reading at GameSpotYou Can Already Preorder Nintendo Switch 2 Grips From Dbrand And Satisfye
$40 (was $50) | Releases Spring 2025
Preoder ZenGrip 2 at Satisfye Preorder ZenGrip 2 with Carrying Case at SatisyeDbrand Killswitch for Switch 2
$3 to reserve a unit | Releases Spring 2025
Preorder at DbrandThe 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)
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.
Preorder at DbrandBeyond 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
Continue Reading at GameSpot