After almost a decade of being the flagship console, the Nintendo Switch is finally getting a successor, and fans got their first look at the Nintendo Switch 2.
While Nintendo provided a good look at the hardware, many fans wonder about the device's specs. When it comes to newer consoles, the question that always seems to be thrown around is, “Is it backward compatible?”
Does the Switch 2 have Backward Compatibility?
As confirmed by the official announcement, the Nintendo Switch 2 will be able to play Nintendo Switch games, both physical and digital versions. This means players can get their regular Nintendo Switch cartridge and put it right into the Switch.
This should also mean that anyone with a library of games attached to their Nintendo account can port their games to the Switch 2.
There is one footnote when it comes to backward compatibility, which reads:
“Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2. Details will be shared on the Nintendo website at a later date.”
It’s not clear what Switch games won’t be coming to the new console, but it’s possible that this could have something to do with third-party games. While Nintendo has mostly been developing original games for their console, they don’t have a say regarding third-party developers. It’s possible that the Switch 2 won’t have the same kind of tech the original had that would allow for third-party games.
What Other Specs Are Fans Looking For?
For now, Nintendo is still keeping many details about the Nintendo Switch 2 under wraps. So far, fans can tell that the device will have a bigger screen and controllers. Based on the reveal trailer, the new joysticks could also double as optical mice.
Many fans have also been hoping for the Switch 2 to be a more powerful console. Despite its success, the Switch wasn’t considered as powerful as its fellow-gen consoles, such as the Xbox One and PS4, so it couldn’t play all the AAA games that fans were looking for.
With the Steam Deck proving that powerful computing power can be put in a handheld device, maybe Nintendo has found a way to stuff it all inside the Switch this time. Then again, their games have focused more on the IP and playability than graphic quality. There’s a reason why even old people are more open to getting a Switch than a PS5.
While fans discuss what could be coming to the Switch 2, Nintendo is gearing up for a more detailed reveal later this year with Nintendo Direct. Hopefully, it will answer everybody’s questions and give fans a look at upcoming games.
The Nintendo Direct will reveal more about the Nintendo Switch 2 on April 2.