Nintendo Is Making the Jump to Switch 2 as Easy as Possible for Everyone

Ever since Nintendo officially revealed the Switch 2, all eyes have been eagerly awaiting the upcoming April Direct. This event is expected to unveil the official release date, price, and confirmed game lineup for the Switch 2. However, in a surprising move, Nintendo released another Direct just a week before, featuring major titles like Pokémon Legends Z-A and Metroid Prime 4. Given Nintendo’s commitment to backward compatibility, this shouldn't be too surprising.

Prior to this week’s Nintendo Direct, Nintendo tempered expectations by stating, "There will be no updates about Nintendo Switch 2 during the presentation." While technically true—no direct mention of the Switch 2 was made apart from a reminder about the upcoming Direct and the new Virtual Game Card sharing system—it's not a stretch to assume that everything showcased will be playable on the Switch 2. Officially, these games are slated for the original Switch, but the implication is clear.

This approach is a win-win for everyone. Those who choose to stick with the original Switch still have plenty to look forward to as the console enters its eighth year. Meanwhile, those upgrading to the Switch 2 can enjoy an extensive back catalog of games right from the start.

Nintendo’s dedication to backward compatibility is poised to facilitate one of the smoothest console transitions we've ever seen. While the excitement for the Switch 2's capabilities and new games is palpable, Nintendo's cautious approach with the hardware ensures they cover all bases. The recent Nintendo Direct didn’t push for Switch 2 pre-orders or urge immediate upgrades. Instead, it embraced an inclusive approach, welcoming everyone—whether you plan to buy a Switch 2 at launch, upgrade later, or remain content with your current Switch.

That’s why there was no risk in showcasing a multitude of Switch games just days before the dedicated Switch 2 Direct. Beneath the surface, Nintendo laid further groundwork for the upcoming transition, introducing the Virtual Game Card system. This update allows Switch owners to link two consoles and share digital games, much like Steam's family sharing system. Its announcement at the end of the Switch's life cycle, with the Switch 2 on the horizon, likely aims to smooth the transition.

Some have noticed that the fine print for the Virtual Game Card system hints at a “Switch 2 Edition” for certain games. Whether this indicates exclusive enhancements, re-releases only compatible with the Switch 2, or something else remains unclear. Similarly, Nintendo previously mentioned that "Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported or fully compatible with Switch 2." This fine print likely serves as a precautionary measure for any potential unshareable games.

Nintendo seems to be treating the transition to the Switch 2 like a procession, akin to how Apple transitions between iPhone models. You don't have to upgrade, but there are clear benefits if you do, and you can bring your existing games along for the journey.