The controversially priced Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, which would bring new content and enhancements to existing titles, like frame rate increases and higher graphic fidelity.

According to Marvelous Games' FAQ page for its Switch 2 launch title Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition cartridges will be cross-compatible with the original Switch (via VGC). "There’s no need to the full game: simply insert the card into either a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 console, and the correct version will launch automatically," according to the FAQ page.

Nintendo previously stated that the Switch 2 Edition games would contain the full game on the cartridge and not require a . But, it was unclear if the Switch 2 cartridges would work with the Switch 1.

Switch 2 Edition Cards Can Play Switch 1 Versions Of Games

More Opportunities For Sharing Games

Since the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of titles receiving upgrades will not require s, and since it appears the cartridges are cross-compatible, the console will apparently just run the correct version of the game when it is inserted. This should allow s to still exchange or borrow games from friends or family, and be able to play the correct version without needing to have one over the other.

Of course, the Nintendo Switch 2 Editions that run on the Switch 2 will have exclusive features and upgrades for the Switch 2 version, and the Switch 1 won't have access to those upgrades. For example, the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild has an exclusive weapon repair feature in the Zelda Notes app, which won't be accessible on the Switch 1 version of the game, presumably.

This is a benefit for someone who owns a Switch 1 and may want to try a game a friend has, but that friend has the Switch 2 version. With this strategy, players will still be able to play the Switch 1 version using their friend's Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of the game. It's worth noting — this appears to only be the case for games that have a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade; Switch 2-exclusive titles will only work on the Switch 2.

Similar To Xbox Smart Delivery, But Upgrading Comes With A Cost

The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Games and Upgrades Aren't Cheap

This Switch 2 feature is similar to the Xbox Smart Delivery system, where players can play the best version of the game they have purchased, without having to have access to a specific Xbox One or Xbox Series X/S. But, the Xbox Smart Delivery system also gives s a free the Xbox Series X/S versions of previously purchased titles when they purchase a Series X/S console, and that is not the case with the Switch 2.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of games are even more expensive than their Switch 1 versions, if you don't already own the game. Upgrades to the Switch 2 version will cost $10 in most regions. Some games, like the two Zelda games, will also get free upgrades to the Switch 2 versions if the player is a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack member. While this news is probably not going to change the minds of consumers about whether they should get a Nintendo Switch 2 or not, it is a nice feature to have.

Source: Marvelous Games, VGC