While it might be good news that theNintendo Switch 2will feature updated versions of some original Switch games, a potential imbalance between these new editions may already be forming that Nintendo should keep an eye on. Though the focus of theNintendo Switch 2has been on its next-gen games, Nintendo has also ensured the longevity of previous Switch games as it transitions to its new console. For games likeThe Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,Tears of the Kingdom, andKirby and the Forgotten Land, Nintendo has confirmed these will receive new Switch 2 Editions, and many more may follow.
However, among the Switch 2 Editions revealed or rumored so far, there seems to be some disparities in what players receive when upgrading certain Switch games. For example, while virtually all new editions will feature improved graphics andperformance thanks to the Switch 2’s hardware, only a select few have been confirmed to include additional content exclusive to the Switch 2, such asKirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World. While it may not be an immediate concern ahead of the Switch 2’s launch later this year, Nintendo should aim to manage expectations for developers and players regarding Switch 2 Editions games.
Breaking Down The Differences In Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Games
Beyond various Switch games receiving free updates when played on the Switch 2, according to Nintendo’s website, there are just under a dozen confirmed or speculated Switch 2 Edition games in the works for the upcoming console. Several have already been showcased by Nintendo, such asBreath of the WildandTears of the Kingdomenhanced gameplay orKirby’s upcomingStar-Crossed Worldexpansion, while others likePokemon Legends: Z-AorStory of Seasons: Grand Bazaarwill need additional updates. However, even among the Switch 2 Editions confirmed so far, it seems some games are getting a better deal than others.
For instance, whileMetroid Prime 4: Beyondand bothZeldagames will receive performance improvementsand quality-of-life features, they won’t receive any new story content. Meanwhile, games likeKirby and the Forgotten Landwill receive expansions similar toSuper Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury,andSuper Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TVwill feature Switch 2 exclusive minigames. Ultimately, this suggests that some Switch 2 Editions will be better value for money if some only offer minor or superficial improvements, even in cases where players had been anticipating expansions or DLC for games likeTears of the Kingdom.
Nintendo Should Standardize Its Switch 2 Edition Games
While it may not be possible for Nintendo to include new content in every Switch 2 Edition, it should either moderate how much can be added in these updated versions or ensure that costs reflect any new content. Based on Nintendo’s original Japanese listings and recent reports aboutprices for Switch 2 upgrade packs, Nintendo seems to at least be taking the latter approach, with some editions being free with Nintendo Switch Online membership or varying in price between ten dollars or more depending on the game. However, with no clear standards or baselines for content and pricing, this could become an issue for Nintendo.
Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Games Could Be A Temporary But Necessary Evil
Ever since the latest Nintendo Direct, there has been significantcontroversy around the prices of the Switch 2itself and its games, and things may potentially get worse following Nintendo’s delays to US pre-orders in response to uncertainty over tariffs. But Nintendo would arguably receive criticism over the Switch 2 regardless of any steps it took to mitigate controversy, as game prices have been increasing across the industry and backwards compatibility remains a hot-button topic. Therefore, these upgraded editions may only be a temporary but necessary evil until both Nintendo and its players fully transition to the Switch 2.
