Is Nintendo Switch 2 Backward Compatible with Switch 1?
June 5, 2025, marked the official release of Nintendo Switch 2, a console that not only aims for a technical leap but also prioritizes legacy support. One of the most anticipated features was backward compatibility: can we play our old Switch games on the new system?
The answer is yes — with some conditions. Switch 2 supports both physical and digital Switch 1 games, but requires a firmware update to version 19.1.0, either through internet connection or via games like Mario Kart World that include the update.
Can you play everything? What works, what doesn't, and what needs fixing
Over 15,000 games from the original Switch run smoothly on Switch 2, but a few come with performance issues, such as slowdowns or crashes. The only completely incompatible title is Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04: VR Kit, due to the new console size.
Even with these exceptions, the backward compatibility is one of the most extensive in Nintendo's history, giving players instant access to a massive library on day one.
Enhanced games: free patches and paid upgrades
Backward compatibility doesn't stop at functionality — some titles receive automatic improvements, like faster loading and stable framerates. Others offer free performance updates (e.g., Pokémon Scarlet and Violet in 4K/60 FPS).
Nintendo is also releasing paid enhanced editions, such as Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, with exclusive visual upgrades on Switch 2.
Do Switch 2 games work on the original Switch?
No. Games developed for Switch 2 do not run on the original console. The new cartridges are red-colored for easy identification. Despite fitting into the original Switch slot, the older hardware lacks the power to run them.
Only some titles marked as Switch 2 Edition will run on the original Switch, but without the next-gen improvements.
How does Switch 2's launch lineup compare to previous consoles?
Switch 2 launched with a strong lineup of over 25 games, including exclusives, remasters, third-party titles, and GameCube classics via Switch Online. This makes it one of Nintendo’s most robust day-one lineups to date.
Key titles include:
- Mario Kart World
- Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
- Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Switch 2 Edition
- F-Zero GX (via Switch Online)
Combined with backward compatibility, this gives players access to a catalog of over 15,000 games.
What’s next? The future of compatibility and upcoming exclusives
Nintendo has confirmed that more compatibility updates are on the way, along with new exclusive games that fully utilize Switch 2's potential. Enhanced versions of Super Mario Odyssey, Metroid Dread, and Bayonetta 3 are expected.
The big question is: which new titles will define the Switch 2 era? And will Nintendo embrace cloud gaming or advanced graphics to match its competitors?
