Free Switch 2 Game Update Changes
Nintendo has detailed what improvements players should expect with free Switch 2 updates for original Switch games, such as Pokemon Scarlet/Violet, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, and Super Mario Odyssey. The benefits range from frame-rate improvements to HDR support.
Switch 2 is backwards compatible with almost all original Switch games, though there are some exceptions. Nintendo has only pointed to these 12 games as receiving free Switch 2 updates so far, and there has been no indication of other titles getting patched in the future. Added GameShare and GameChat functionality are two newly touted social features for Switch 2. The former can let players share a game to other people (even on the original Switch) with just a single copy of the game. Meanwhile, GameChat lets people talk together online and even share their gameplay over the internet.
The Nintendo website provides game specifics for the Switch 2 updates, as Pokemon Scarlet/Violet will see better image quality and improved frame rates on the upcoming hybrid console. Indications are that it does indeed run much smoother than on the original Switch.
Meanwhile, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom will receive upgraded image quality and HDR support, though nothing is confirmed for the game’s previously reported frame-rate issues. However, there is speculation the title has an uncapped frame rate that will naturally benefit from running on the more powerful Switch 2.
In addition to these free updates, there will also be paid Switch 2 Editions of games, such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild/Tears of the Kingdom and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond.
Below is the list of Switch games getting free Switch 2 updates and how they will improve. Don’t forget the system’s tablet features HDR support, but a compatible TV is needed in docked mode.
Arms
- Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs for improved image quality
- Frame rate: Optimized for Nintendo Switch 2 for smoother movement (even when playing with three or more players)
- HDR support
Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain
GameShare support
- Up to four people can play in Party Mode
- Share locally or share online via GameChat
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
- Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs for improved image quality
- HDR support
GameShare support
- Two people can play all of the courses
- Share locally or share online via GameChat
Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics
GameShare support
- Up to four people can play 34 games
- Share locally or share online via GameChat
Game Builder Garage
- Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs for improved image quality
- Supports Joy-Con 2 mouse controls
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
- Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs for improved image quality
Pokemon Scarlet/Violet
- Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs for improved image quality
- Frame rate: Improved for smoother movement on Nintendo Switch 2
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
- Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs for improved image quality
- Frame rate: Optimized for smoother movement on Nintendo Switch 2 (including Bowser’s Fury)
- HDR support (Bowser’s Fury only)
GameShare support:
- Up to four people can play Super Mario 3D World
- In Bowser’s Fury, two people can play together, with one player controlling Mario and the other controlling Bowser Jr.
- Share locally or share online via GameChat
Super Mario Odyssey
- Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs for improved image quality
- HDR support
GameShare support:
- Two people can play together, with one player controlling Mario and the other controlling Cappy
- Share locally or share online via GameChat
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
- Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs for improved image quality
- HDR support
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
- Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs for improved image quality
- HDR support
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Several adjustments have been made to improve gameplay on Switch 2.
Super Mario 3D All-Stars
Several adjustments have been made to improve gameplay on Switch 2.
Kirby Star Allies
Several adjustments have been made to improve gameplay on Switch 2.
Kirby’s Dream Buffet
Several adjustments have been made to improve gameplay on Switch 2.
Pikmin 3 Deluxe
Several adjustments have been made to improve gameplay on Switch 2.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3
Several adjustments have been made to improve gameplay on Switch 2.
Splatoon 3
Splatoon 3 fans are in for a treat, as the game’s free Switch 2 update will add more than just improved visuals and performance. Player arsenals are also being updated with new paint-splattering gear in the version 10.0.0 update, and a new stat in the ranked Anarchy Battles called Series Weapon Power will appeal to hardcore players looking to track their win/loss ratios with specific weapons.
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake offers a free upgrade for Nintendo Switch 2 users, enhancing visuals and performance at no additional cost. While there are no adjustments to the gameplay, which sees you following the Hero of Aliahan on a quest to defeat Baramos, the upgrade adds the option to prioritize frame rate, as well as graphics improvements. The upgrade is available right now via a downloadable patch.
Hades 2
- Enhanced texture quality
- Enhanced visual effects
- Adds 120 fps performance mode at 1080p resolution in TV Mode
- Adds 60 fps performance mode at 1080p in Handheld Mode
Hollow Knight: Silksong
Adds a higher resolution, improved frame rates, and additional effects.
Lynked: Banner of the Spark
Adds Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, GameShare online via GameChat, improved graphics, and improved performance.
Shadow Labyrinth
Upgrades the frame rate and resolution.
No Man’s Sky
Adds multiplayer mode, the Settlements mode, and enhanced visuals.
The Exit 8
Adds improved resolution and frame rate to create a smoother gameplay experience.
Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles
Adds improved frame rates and resolution.
High on Life
- Adds support for Joy-Con 2 mouse controls
- Improves VFX quality
- Upgrades texture quality
- Higher frame rate
- Enhanced resolution at up to 1080p 30fps in TV mode.
It’s exciting to see Nintendo providing updates for original Switch games! Enhancements like these can really breathe new life into beloved titles. Looking forward to experiencing the improvements in PokĂ©mon Scarlet and Violet!
Absolutely! It’s great that Nintendo is focusing on improving the gaming experience for players. These updates can really breathe new life into older titles, making them feel fresh and more enjoyable. Plus, it’s a smart way to keep the community engaged as we look forward to the new console!
updates really show their commitment to keeping the community engaged. It’s interesting to see how they are addressing performance issues and adding new features that enhance gameplay. I’m especially looking forward to the quality-of-life improvements in PokĂ©mon Scarlet/Violet!
I agree, the updates definitely highlight Nintendo’s dedication to their players. It’s also great to see that they are focusing on enhancing gameplay experiences, especially for titles like PokĂ©mon Scarlet/Violet, which keeps the excitement alive for both new and veteran fans!
I completely agree! It’s encouraging to see how Nintendo is not only improving gameplay but also enhancing overall player experience. I’m particularly excited to see how these updates will impact multiplayer features in games like Pokémon Scarlet/Violet.