Nintendo Switch 2 Game Upgrades: What to Expect

Published on 17 Apr 2025

Nintendo recently shared exciting news. Some Switch games will get better versions on the Switch 2. Now fans can really soak up their favorite games and enjoy them to their fullest thanks to these improvements.

The Switch 2 is Nintendo's next console. It will likely release in 2025. Many players wonder which games will get upgrades. Here's what we know so far.

Which Switch Games Will Get Switch 2 Versions?

Nintendo hasn't confirmed specific titles yet. But experts have ideas based on company hints. Popular games with long playtimes may get updates first.

Likely Candidates for Switch 2 Upgrades

These games could receive enhanced versions: These games could receive enhanced versions:

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Better graphics and performance
Super Mario Odyssey - New levels and smoother gameplay
Animal Crossing: New Horizons - More items and quality boosts
Pokémon Scarlet/Violet - Fixed performance issues
Splatoon 3 - Upgraded multiplayer features

What Upgrades Can Players Expect?

Switch 2 versions won't just be simple ports. Nintendo promises meaningful improvements. Here are the most likely upgrades.

Visual Improvements

Current Switch games run at 720p handheld and 1080p docked. Switch 2 could support:

4K resolution when docked
Better textures and effects
Higher frame rates (60fps or more)

Performance Boosts

The Switch 2 has a punchier hardware base and that will really help games run nicer and smoother. Expect:

Faster load times
More stable performance
Bigger game worlds with less lag

New Content Possibilities

Some games might get extra features: Some games might get extra features:

New levels or missions
Additional characters
Expanded multiplayer options

How Will Upgrade Purchases Work?

Nintendo hasn't explained this fully. But we can guess based on past practices.

Possible Upgrade Paths

Players might get Switch 2 versions through:

Free updates for simple enhancements
Paid upgrades for major new content
Complete re-releases as separate products

Which Game Types Benefit Most?

Certain genres gain more from hardware improvements. The gaming community especially expects better:

Action and Adventure Games

Fast-paced titles need smooth performance. The Switch 2 helps action games like:

Bayonetta 3
Metroid Dread
Hyrule Warriors

RPG and Strategy Games

These games often push the Switch's limits. Upgrades could improve:

Xenoblade Chronicles 3
Fire Emblem Engage
Triangle Strategy

Will Online Features Improve?

Many Switch games offer multiplayer modes. The Switch 2 might enhance online play with:

More stable connections
Bigger player counts
Reduced lag during matches

How Will This Affect Game Prices?

Upgraded games might cost more than originals. But Nintendo often keeps prices fair. Possible price ranges:

$10-20 for basic upgrades
$40-60 for full new versions

What About Physical vs. Digital?

Both formats will likely get upgrades. Physical copies might need:

Rebuying the game card
Update patches for improvements

Digital owners may get easier upgrade paths. Nintendo's accounts link purchases across consoles.

Conclusion

Nintendo's Switch 2 will refresh many Switch games. Players can expect better graphics, smoother play, and maybe new content. The upgrade process isn't fully clear yet. But it will make favorite games feel new again. This smart move helps Nintendo keep their players really engaged when there aren't that many big new games to look forward to.