Switch 2 backwards compatibility explained: What has Nintendo said?
It's-a good news. Yahoo!
Following weeks of rumours and speculation, Nintendo has officially unveiled the Switch 2, which is set to launch this year.
The Switch 2 reveal provided fans with a first look at the new console, which is expected to be a hefty upgrade from its predecessor.
As the list of expected and rumoured games continues to grow, the topic of backward compatibility keeps sparking conversation among fans.
Here, find everything there is to know about Switch 2 backward compatibility and how it's going to work.
Does the Nintendo Switch 2 have backward compatibility?
Yes, the Nintendo Switch 2 does feature backward compatibility.
The news came on X (the social media site formerly known as Twitter), with Shuntaro Furukawa choosing to commune with the fans directly.
"This is Furukawa," he said at the start of his message. "At today's Corporate Management Policy Briefing, we announced that Nintendo Switch software will also be playable on the successor to Nintendo Switch."
This news will be welcome among a lot of fans. There are so many great Nintendo Switch games, and it would be a shame to leave that library behind.
Nintendo Switch 2 backward compatibility explained
Backwards compatibility means that you won't have to do that. You'll be able to take your old games with you. Yay!
This is not always a given with new consoles. For example, last time Nintendo launched a new console, Wii U and 3DS players were not able to transfer their old games onto the Switch at all.
The Switch 2 will have the ability to play physical game cartridges as well as digital downloads, which is great if you've got an extensive collection.
However, there's always a chance some games won't possess backward-compatible capabilities.
When more details on the Switch 2's backward compatibility feature appear, we'll be sure to update the page with the latest information.
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If you're looking for something fun to do in the meantime, check out our Mario trivia quiz below.
Read more on Nintendo:
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- Best Nintendo Switch games for kids
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- How to charge Nintendo Switch controllers
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- How to connect Nintendo Switch to TV
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Authors
Rob Leane is the Gaming Editor at Radio Times, overseeing our coverage of the biggest games on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC, mobile and VR. Rob works across our website, social media accounts and video channels, as well as producing our weekly gaming newsletter. He has previously worked at Den of Geek, Stealth Optional and Dennis Publishing.
Jon Nicholson is a Freelance Gaming Writer, specialising in the Call of Duty franchise. He previously worked for Gfinity, GGRecon and Red Bull writing a variety of gaming news and guides. Alongside his previous work, he's a Freelance News Writer for Esports Insider.
