Nintendo Switch 2 Backwards Compatibility: Confirmed Games List (Updating)

Get ready, Switch fans! The successor to the wildly popular Nintendo Switch is on the horizon, and everyone’s buzzing about one crucial question: Will our existing libraries make the jump? Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will offer backwards compatibility, meaning you’ll likely be able to play most of your current games on the new system. But hold your horses—that “most” leaves room for some potential hiccups. Let’s break down everything we know (and suspect) so far.

Confirmed Compatible Games

While a full list is still MIA, Nintendo has showcased a few key titles running on Switch 2 hardware. This offers a glimmer of hope for a smooth transition for many fan favorites.

Confirmed Switch 2 Compatible Games
Super Mario Wonder
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Metroid Prime 4
Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma
Professor Layton and the New World of Steam
Super Mario Party Jamboree
Pokémon Scarlet
Pokémon Violet
Animal Crossing New Horizons

Why Some Games Might Miss the Cut

The likeliest culprit for incompatibility? Hardware differences. The original Switch boasts unique features like the IR sensor (used in Nintendo Labo) and HD Rumble. If the Switch 2 ditches or modifies these, games heavily reliant on them might face challenges. Think 1-2-Switch or Ring Fit Adventure – their core gameplay could be affected by changes in motion controls or haptic feedback. Emulation is another factor. If Nintendo uses emulation to achieve backwards compatibility, some games might run into performance issues or require tweaks to function correctly. This isn’t unusual with new consoles, and hopefully, patches and updates can address most problems.

What We Know (and Don’t Know) So Far

• The Good: Nintendo has publicly committed to backwards compatibility, suggesting a significant portion of the Switch library will be playable on the Switch 2. Several high-profile titles have already been confirmed.

• The Not-So-Good: That “most games” caveat hangs in the air. We still lack a definitive list of compatible (and incompatible) games, leaving some uncertainty. Specific details about digital purchases, save data transfer, and accessory compatibility are also scarce.

• The Hopeful: The upcoming April 2nd Nintendo Direct is our beacon of hope! We anticipate concrete details and, fingers crossed, a comprehensive compatibility list. This will be crucial for anyone deciding whether to dive into new Switch games now or hold out for the Switch 2.

Your Burning Questions, Answered (Maybe)

• Will my digital games transfer? While highly probable given Nintendo’s past console transitions, we await official confirmation.

• What about my save data? Another critical question! Cloud saves (especially for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers) seem likely, but again, we need specifics.

• Can I use my old accessories? The jury’s still out on controller and dock compatibility. We’ll have to wait and see what Nintendo has in store.

• Should I sell my Switch? Definitely not! Even with backwards compatibility, some gems might remain exclusive to the original hardware. Plus, you might just want to relive those classic moments on the OG system.

Stay Tuned!

The Switch 2 backwards compatibility saga is just beginning. Bookmark this page and follow us for the latest updates. We’ll be dissecting every announcement from the April 2nd Nintendo Direct and beyond, keeping you informed as the story unfolds. While speculation and educated guesses abound, remember to take everything with a grain of salt until Nintendo delivers official word. The gaming world is watching, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds!