Is Nintendo Switch 2 Backwards Compatible? Explained

It would be unfair if we said we didn’t already know that Switch 2 would support the previous generation of games. There have been lots of rumors; the big-red gaming giants themselves shared that the Switch successor will have this feature. But nothing is official until it is, right? Thanks to the official reveal, we now answer ‘Is Nintendo Switch 2 Backwards Compatible?’

Well, the answer is Yes. The Nintendo Switch 2 will have backward compatibility. This confirmation makes Nintendo’s upcoming handheld even more exciting. In the official Switch 2 first look trailer, we see a frame showcasing the backwards compatibility with some other details. So, if you want to know more about the feature, keep reading.

Nintendo Switch 2 Backwards Compatibility Explained

Nintendo previously hinted at the Switch 2’s backwards compatibility, but today’s announcement revealed more. We initially believed only digital games would be supported, but Nintendo clarified that some Switch games may not be compatible. The specific limitations will be detailed on their website in the coming days.

Fortunately, all the top-tier single-player or the best Co-op Switch games will be playable on the new console, effectively giving it a rich library from day one. The Switch already has an enormous library of nearly 12,000 games, making the possibility of bringing a significant portion to the Switch 2 incredibly delightful, especially considering the unknown launch lineup.

Switch 2 Digital Backwards Compatibility

Nintendo has confirmed that Switch 2 will be backwards compatible with digital games. This comes as a shock as most games in recent years do not give that leverage of multi-generation console support.

However, games utilizing IR sensors or specific gyro controls may not function perfectly on the new system. This news is reassuring for players with extensive digital libraries, as the Nintendo eShop will continue to offer original Switch downloads alongside new releases.

Switch 2 Physical Backwards Compatibility

The Switch 2 will have broad support for existing Switch games, but there may be instances where compatibility is limited or unavailable. The confirmation that some Nintendo Switch games might not be compatible with the Switch 2 likely stems from technological differences between the two consoles.

This situation evokes the Nintendo Labo experience, where unique hardware features like gyroscopes and IR sensors could be absent or altered in the Switch 2, rendering certain games unplayable.

And now you know whether the Nintendo Switch 2 is backwards compatible. Still have any doubts? Shoot your questions in the comments below.