Nintendo Switch 2: Which Original Switch Games Are Getting Free Upgrades?

The gaming world is buzzing with anticipation for the Nintendo Switch 2, and one of the biggest questions on players’ minds is: Will my favorite Switch games get free upgrades? Nintendo has a history of rewarding its loyal fanbase, and early reports suggest that several first-party titles will indeed receive free enhancements—including higher resolutions, smoother frame rates, and even new content—when played on the next-gen console.

From The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to Super Mario Odyssey, some of the Switch’s most iconic games could look and play better than ever. But which titles are confirmed? What improvements can we expect? And will third-party games follow suit? This guide breaks down everything we know so far, separating fact from speculation and helping you prepare for the next era of Nintendo gaming.

Nintendo Switch 2 Big Names: Nintendo’s First-Party Upgrades

Nintendo has remained tight-lipped about official backward compatibility, but insider reports and patent filings suggest that select first-party games will receive free performance patches for the Switch 2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is almost guaranteed to get an upgrade, likely running at 4K/60fps with improved draw distances—similar to the Wii U emulation mods that already push the game beyond its original limits.

Super Mario Odyssey, another system-seller, could see enhanced textures and ray-traced lighting, making its vibrant worlds even more immersive. Meanwhile, Metroid Prime 4, which was delayed multiple times, might finally launch as a cross-gen title, optimized for both the original Switch and its successor.

But the real surprise? Animal Crossing: New Horizons could receive a major content update, reintroducing missing features like the beloved “Brewster’s Café” and expanding island customization. Nintendo knows this game’s community is still active, and a next-gen refresh could reignite player engagement before a potential sequel.

Third-Party Upgrades: Will EA, Ubisoft, and Others Follow?

While Nintendo’s own titles are likely to get free upgrades, third-party support is murkier. Some publishers, like Capcom, have already confirmed that Monster Hunter Rise and Resident Evil Village will receive next-gen patches, though it’s unclear if these will be free or paid DLC. The Witcher 3, which received a recent Switch update, might also get a performance boost, given CD Projekt Red’s history of supporting older games.

However, other studios may treat the Switch 2 as a chance to re-sell remastered versions. EA, for example, could push FIFA 25 (or whatever it’s called by then) as a separate purchase rather than a free upgrade. The same goes for Skyrim, which has been re-released on every platform imaginable—Bethesda might see the Switch 2 as another opportunity to sell the game yet again.

What About Physical Cartridges? Will They Work?

One of the biggest concerns for collectors is whether their physical Switch games will be compatible with the Switch 2. Nintendo has filed patents for a dual-slot cartridge system, suggesting that the new console could support both old and new game cards. If true, this would be a massive win for preservation and consumer trust. However, digital owners shouldn’t worry—Nintendo’s account system will almost certainly allow for cross-platform library access, meaning your eShop purchases will carry over.

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