Nintendo is coming out with a new version of the Switch, dubbed the Switch 2, and it seems like there’s a catch. Before you can access the upgraded versions of games already on the Switch, you’ll need to fork over an extra $10. But what exactly are you getting for your hard-earned cash?
First-Party Nintendo Games: The Clear Winners
When it comes to first-party Nintendo games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, the benefits of upgrading to the Switch 2 version are pretty clear. For just $10 more, players will get additional story logs, achievements, and daily stat bonuses for Link. Super Mario Party Jamboree and Kirby and the Forgotten Land are also getting new modes and DLC expansions, but at a higher price point of $20.
Third-Party Games: A Murkier Territory
On the other hand, upgrading third-party games to the Switch 2 version is a bit more confusing. Games like Hogwarts Legacy and Civilization 7 are offering upgrades for $10, which promise features like DLSS support, faster broom flying, and improved resolution. Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is also jumping on the bandwagon, offering better frame rates and mouse controls with the upgrade pack.
Backwards Compatibility and the Switch 2
While players could technically play the Switch 1 versions of these games on the new console through backwards compatibility, the upgraded versions offer incentives like improved graphics and gameplay. Nintendo has mentioned that the Switch 2 requires software emulation for backwards compatibility, but the extent of the upgrades remains unclear. Not every game is taking the upgrade route, with titles like Sonic X Shadow: Generations maintaining the same price on both versions without an upgrade path.
The Future of Game Upgrades on Switch 2
As the launch of the Switch 2 approaches, it seems like many publishers are following Nintendo’s lead in offering upgraded versions of their games for an extra fee. It remains to be seen how indie games like Hades 2 will handle the next-gen transition, with some developers opting to offer improved performance without additional costs. With the precedent set by other consoles like the PlayStation and Xbox, it’s no surprise that Nintendo is looking for ways to capitalize on its back catalog with upgraded editions of popular titles.
In conclusion, the landscape of game upgrades on Switch 2 is evolving, with some titles requiring a fee for access to enhanced features and performance. Whether players are willing to pay the extra $10 for these upgrades remains to be seen, but it’s clear that Nintendo and other publishers are looking to maximize their profits in the next generation of gaming consoles.