Following Nintendo’s March 2025 Direct, fans noticed references to “Switch 2 Editions” on the official website. At first, it seemed these were simple performance-boosted versions of existing games for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. But now, after a dedicated Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, we know there’s a lot more going on—and not all of it is good news.
🎮 What Are Switch 2 Editions?
Nintendo Switch 2 Editions are enhanced versions of select games, playable only on the Switch 2 console. These aren’t just free next-gen patches—they’re separate purchases that offer:
- 4K resolution and 60 FPS support
- Enhanced graphics and faster load times
- In some cases, brand-new content, features, or gameplay modes
Some games will get free performance boosts when played on the Switch 2, but Switch 2 Editions offer premium upgrades and new features exclusive to paid versions.
📜 Confirmed Switch 2 Editions (So Far)
At launch or shortly after, these games will have official Switch 2 Editions:
- Civilization VII
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
- Pokémon Legends: Z-A
- Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma
- Shadow Labyrinth
- Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar
- Super Mario Party Jamboree
- Tamagotchi Plaza
More Switch 2-enhanced games may be revealed soon.
💰 How Much Do Switch 2 Editions Cost?
Nintendo hasn’t revealed official pricing yet, but here’s what we know:
- You can buy a Switch 2 Edition bundle, which includes the base game and all enhancements.
- If you already own the base game on the original Switch, you can purchase an upgrade pack (only usable on the Switch 2).
- Select Switch Online subscribers will get free upgrades—Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, for example.
While exciting, this pricing model raises concerns. Paying extra for features like mouse control or app integrations may feel excessive for some fans.
🚀 What’s New in Switch 2 Edition Games?
Each Switch 2 Edition comes with different enhancements. Here’s what we know about major titles:
🧩 Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
- Mouse control support
- Enhanced graphics and faster loading
- A smoother, more PC-like experience on Switch 2
🧝 Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom
- Zelda Notes via the Nintendo Switch app
- Share creations, track secrets, get GPS-like navigation through Hyrule
- Free upgrade for Switch Online subscribers
🌌 Kirby and the Forgotten Land
- New story expansion: Star-Crossed World
- Exclusive to Switch 2 Edition
🎲 Super Mario Party Jamboree
- Additional mini-games
- Integration with Switch 2 accessories (new camera, Joy-Con mouse mode)
⚠️ Pros & Cons of the Switch 2 Editions
✅ Pros
- True next-gen upgrades beyond just visual fidelity
- Expanded content and exclusive features
- Cross-gen compatibility with some options for upgrading
❌ Cons
- Requires separate purchases or paid upgrades
- Some features feel like DLC locked behind paywalls
- Not all features are hardware-dependent (e.g., Zelda Notes is app-based)
🧠 Final Thoughts: Are Switch 2 Editions Worth It?
Nintendo’s Switch 2 Editions strategy is ambitious, offering more than just technical upgrades. These enhanced games introduce meaningful new experiences—but at a cost. Whether they’re worth it depends on:
- How much you value added content
- Your tolerance for upgrade pricing
- Whether you already own the original game
As we await more pricing details, one thing is clear: Nintendo Switch 2 games won’t just look better—they may actually play differently. That could be a game-changer… or just another way to squeeze players’ wallets.
