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With the Nintendo Switch 2 coming up, the fans are buzzing. Even better, some of your favorite games on the Nintendo Switch are receiving free updates for the new console. That’s right: improved performance, improved graphics, and faster loads, for the most part, without spending an extra penny. Here’s everything that we know so far about the officially announced titles and what to expect.

What Is the Nintendo Switch 2?

Nintendo has not officially announced every little thing yet. However, reputable industry sources report that the Nintendo Switch 2 will boast heavy upgrades compared to its predecessor. It has a more efficient processor, better resolution (up to 4K when docked and plugged into the TV), and upgraded Joy-Cons. Backward compatibility is also expected, so you can play your Switch library from the last generation, but not only that, some games will even get free next-gen updates.

Free Nintendo Switch 2 Game Upgrades

Free upgrades mean that if you already have the game on your current Switch (physically or digitally), you will be able to download one that runs better on the Switch 2 for free. This would be similar to what we have seen with PS4 to PS5 and Xbox One to Series X/S upgrades.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff: the list of officially announced and rumored Nintendo Switch games with free Switch 2 upgrades.

Confirmed Games with Free Upgrades for Nintendo Switch 2

Image from Nintendo Welcome Tour courtesy of Nintendo

These games are formally confirmed by developers or reliable sources to receive free Switch 2 upgrades. Check out the official site for more that is not on here.

  1. Super Mario Odyssey – A Switch classic. It’s not surprising that it’d get an upgrade, and also new players to experience simultaneously it gives motivation for those who’ve already experienced it to play it again.
  2. Pokemon Scarlet & Violet – These games started out poorly when coming out, and while players did eventually get used to it, it still had a plethora of issues (the most obvious of which was performance). It’d give these two a chance to truly shine.
  3. The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening is less well-known than Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom, but it is nothing to sneer at. Link’s Awakening had all sorts of performance issues, so fans will be able to play it the way it was originally meant.
  4. Arms – Some might say this is an unusual choice, but it’s one of the first games in a window of the original Switch’s launch, as well as being made specifically for the Switch. It’ll get another chance to demonstrate what it’s capable of.

Games to Receive Upgrades or Have Prices Confirmed

Unfortunately, some games will not be getting free upgrades for the Nintendo Switch 2. Some of these will be free for those who have Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass, but otherwise, you’ll have to pay for them.

  1. The Legend of Zelda: BoTW and ToTK – Extremely well-liked games on the Switch, although each will be charged $10 separately to upgrade (£ still to be announced in the UK and EU currently), meaning a total of $20 would be added to bring both along. Some are calling it cheaper than expected but still a disappointment to others.
  2. Super Mario Party Jamboree – An instant hit on the Switch, its price hasn’t been set in stone yet. Some would guess that since it’s not a flagship game, maybe it could be $5 or less, but Nintendo could easily leave it like the above. In the meantime, however, it will feature more content, so there is a good likelihood that it’ll be the same as Zelda or better.
  3. Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Similar circumstance as Jamboree, so difficult to speculate what the price could be. At least it’s pleasant that less prominent characters (than icons such as Mario and Zelda) will get to do it another time, though!

How to Acquire These Free Upgrades on Switch 2

Luckily, Nintendo made it easy to acquire your free Nintendo Switch 2 game upgrades.

  1. For free update, you shall have to plug the Nintendo Switch 2 onto the internet, then you shall be able to download the free updates easily.
  2. For upgrade purchases, you’ll have to purchase the upgrade bundle in the store (either by retailers, My Nintendo Shop formally, or even the Nintendo retail store on the console).

Will All Nintendo Switch Games Be Compatible with Switch 2?

According to leakers and insiders, one of the most prominent features of the Nintendo Switch 2 will be backward compatibility. Though, as stated, not every single game will be upgraded for free, or upgraded at all. Some will simply run as they are, and some will receive upgraded patches.

Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Switch 2 isn’t shaping up to be more than just a new console; it’s a complete reworking of the Switch experience. With free game updates, Nintendo is offering long-term fans a love that will have them cherish the games they’ve already purchased.

Simultaneously, however, people are slightly upset that Nintendo will be charging for some of the upgrades. It was inevitable, but at least most of them are going to get new material, so it’s something to look forward to. So, whether you want to return to Hyrule, catch pocket monsters, or hang out (i.e., sabotage friendships) at a Mario party, these extended experiences are worth the wait.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Gaming and was syndicated with permission.

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