After years of speculation, regarding the system hasn't stopped churning. As excited as everyone is to see what's next, one of the biggest concerns regarding the hardware upgrade is whether or not consumers will be able to bring across all the games they purchased for the original Nintendo Switch; Backward compatibility has become a major selling point for consoles.
Posting on X (formerly Twitter), President of Nintendo Shuntaro Furukawa revealed that "Nintendo Switch software will also be playable on the successor," confirming the rumors that claimed that the so-called Switch 2 would feature backward compatibility.
That announcement was enough to drum up excitement, but Nintendo went further by revealing that Nintendo Switch Online will also be available for its next console. The post concludes with a promise that more information on the system and its compatibility with the Nintendo Switch will be announced "at a later date."
An Expected Announcement But A Welcome One
It's A Win No Matter What
While most fans expected some kind of backward compatibility for the Nintendo Switch 2, many are relieved to have it confirmed. The Switch has an extensive library of titles, including some of the best games Nintendo has ever made. Indie games have also thrived on the hybrid console so many s have built up impressive collections that would have gathered dust if the Switch's successor provided no means of carrying them over.
Having this kind of backward compatibility will also ensure that the Nintendo Switch 2 can land with an established library of games. Players will undoubtedly be looking forward to software designed for the (presumably) beefier hardware but if those titles are slow out of the gate then there's at least seven years worth of games that will likely play better on the upgraded console. It's a win for consumers no matter which way it's analyzed.
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With Xenoblade Chronicles X announced for the Switch, there are still some great Wii U titles that haven't made it to the Switch yet.
Backward Compatibility Is The Right Call
It Keeps Everyone Happy
I've built up a decent collection of games for the Nintendo Switch in the form of physical cartridges and digital s so being able to carry them forward into the next generation is great news. If Nintendo opted to ignore backward compatibility, I have to imagine the fallout amongst its s would have been disastrous. It's a smart albeit somewhat obvious move.
Source: Nintendo/X
- Brand
- Nintendo
- Original Release Date
- March 3, 2017
- Hardware Versions
- Nintendo Switch
- Original MSRP (USD)
- $299.99
- Weight
- .71 lbs
