Nintendo Switch 2: Backward Compatibility Update – What You Need to Know
The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is generating buzz, and a key question on everyone's mind is: will my old games work? Nintendo has been diligently testing backward compatibility, and the latest update provides crucial insights. While the vast majority of games appear set to function, there are a few caveats that Switch owners need to be aware of.
Nintendo has been hard at work testing over 15,000 third-party Switch games, and the initial results are promising. According to the latest compatibility support page update, a significant portion – roughly two-thirds – of these games either have "no issues" or will have problems resolved by launch or shortly after. This is good news for gamers who have amassed a large Switch library.
However, not all games will transition seamlessly. Nintendo has identified over 100 titles with "start up issues" on the Switch 2. While the majority are expected to work eventually, this means potential delays or the need for patches. A further 46 games may have other compatibility issues even if they start up correctly, and 49 others have issues planned to be addressed around launch.
Furthermore, a handful of apps and games simply won't be compatible. These include video streaming apps like Hulu, Crunchyroll, Niconico, and Abema, as well as the comics app InkyPen. The innovative, but physically specific, Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04: VR Kit is also on the ineligible list. It's unclear if these apps will receive dedicated Switch 2 versions in the future. For gamers who rely on these services on their current Switch, this news could be disappointing.
A potential wrinkle arises for games that rely heavily on specific features of the original Switch Joy-Cons. Titles like Ring Fit Adventure, 1-2 Switch, and Nintendo Switch Sports might require the use of external Joy-Cons when played on the Switch 2, suggesting the new console Joy-Cons may not have the same feature set. This could impact the seamless experience for these unique, motion-controlled games.
Despite these challenges, the overall picture is positive. Nintendo's diligent testing and commitment to resolving compatibility issues bode well for the Switch 2's launch. Wall Street seems to agree: Nintendo stock (NTDOF) jumped 4.19% on Tuesday following the compatibility update, showcasing investor confidence in the company's direction. The vast library of compatible games is a strong selling point for the new console.
The Switch 2's backward compatibility picture is complex, but largely favorable. While some games and apps won't make the jump, and others may require workarounds, the sheer volume of compatible titles provides a solid foundation for the new console's success. How will these compatibility issues affect your decision to upgrade? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
