Nintendo Switch 2: Free Upgrades Detailed – What to Expect for Your Favorite Games

The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is generating buzz, and Nintendo is finally shedding light on what free upgrades will bring to existing Switch games. While details were initially scarce, a recent update reveals the extent of enhancements players can anticipate for their favorite titles.

Nintendo has confirmed that a selection of first-party Switch games will receive free Switch 2 upgrades. These upgrades aim to leverage the new console's capabilities to improve the gaming experience without requiring players to purchase entirely new versions.

So, what exactly do these free upgrades entail? According to Nintendo, the primary focus is on enhancing visual fidelity. Most games will benefit from "improved image quality" and optimizations tailored for the Switch 2 display, resulting in noticeably sharper visuals. This extends to both the handheld mode and when playing on high-resolution TVs.

Beyond resolution bumps, some titles will also see improvements to frame rates. Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet, in particular, will receive optimizations for smoother movement. Other games like Super Mario Odyssey are slated to get HDR support, adding more depth and vibrancy to the visuals and GameShare support.

Here's a breakdown of enhancements for specific games:

• ARMS: Visual upgrades (resolution, frame rates and HDR)
• Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain: GameShare (up to four players, local / online GameChat sharing)
• Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker: Visual upgrades (resolution and HDR) and GameShare (two players in all courses, local / online GameChat sharing)
• Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics: GameShare (up to four players can play 34 games, local / online GameChat sharing)
• Game Builder Garage: Visual upgrades (resolution), Joy-Con 2 mouse control
• New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe: Visual upgrades (resolution)
• Pokémon Scarlet & Pokémon Violet: Visual upgrades (resolution, frame rates)
• Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury: Visual upgrades (resolution, frame rates and HDR), GameShare (up to four players in Super Mario 3D World, two players in Bowser's Fury and local / online GameChat sharing)
• Super Mario Odyssey: Visual upgrades (resolution, frame rates), GameShare (two players, local / online GameChat sharing)
• The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom: Visual upgrades (resolution, HDR)
• The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening: Visual upgrades (resolution, HDR)

GameShare functionality is another notable feature, allowing up to four players to enjoy certain games together locally or online via GameChat. This is a significant addition that enhances the social aspect of gaming on the Switch 2.

These free updates will be available on June 5, coinciding with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. A system update will be required to access the enhancements.

The free upgrades for existing Switch titles represent a solid value proposition for early adopters of the Switch 2. By offering enhanced visuals, improved performance, and new features like GameShare, Nintendo is ensuring that players can continue to enjoy their favorite games on the new console.

What are your thoughts on these free upgrades? Are there any specific enhancements you're particularly excited about? Share your opinions in the comments below!

• Nintendo
• Nintendo Switch 2
• Super Mario