Anyone unsure of what the Nintendo Switch 2 actually is and what it does will want to read this simple breakdown before picking one up at launch.
Even if you don’t closely follow the gaming scene, you will have heard that Nintendo is launching another console, the Nintendo Switch 2, very soon.
One look at it, though, and we wouldn’t blame you for assuming it’s nothing but a souped-up reiteration of the Nintendo Switch console you probably already own. So, why is everyone getting so excited about it?
But we’re here to help break down the differences and help you decide whether it’s worth investing in a Switch 2 right now or waiting a while longer.
How is the Switch 2 different from the Switch?
The Switch 2 is an entirely different video game console to the original Switch that launched in 2017.
However, the two consoles do look similar and share many of the same features. For instance, the Switch 2 is still a hybrid console that can be played on the go as a handheld device or on your TV at home by plugging it into a dock.
You can also fold out a kickstand on the back to play the Switch 2 in tabletop mode, just like the Switch 1, although the new console’s stand is much bigger and can be adjusted to any angle up to 150°.
Think of the Switch 2 as the PlayStation 5 to the Switch 1’s PlayStation 4. Although very similar, it’s not just an updated version of the Switch, like the Switch OLED model is, but a completely new format.
What are the new features of the Nintendo Switch 2?
For starters, the Switch 2 is slightly bigger than the Switch 1 and is more powerful, which means it can run games faster and allow for better graphics.
The Switch 2 also has some unique features not available on the Switch 1. The first is GameChat, which lets you chat with friends online during gameplay sessions using the console’s built-in microphone.
GameChat is activated by pressing the ‘C’ button on the right-hand Joy-Con 2 controller, and it also allows you to share your screen so friends can see your gameplay.
Plus, you can display your face by plugging in a compatible USB-C camera accessory. One isn’t included with the Switch 2 when you buy it, but Nintendo is selling one for £49.99.
Normally, you will need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to use GameChat, but Nintendo is making it free for everyone for a limited time until March 31, 2026.
Another big new feature for the Switch 2 is GameShare. With this, you can easily share certain games with other Switch 2 owners. The main purpose of this is so you can play multiplayer games with friends without all of you needing to own separate copies.
Compatible games can be shared online through GameChat, but you’ll also be able to share them through a local wireless connection for in-person multiplayer sessions.
You can also share games with Switch 1 owners, but only through local wireless. GameShare will otherwise not be available on Switch 1.
Switch 1 and Switch 2 games compatible with GameShare
- Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV (Switch 2 exclusive, can only be shared locally and not online, launches July 24)
- Big Brain Academy: Brain Vs. Brain
- Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
- 51 Worldwide Games
- Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
- Super Mario Odyssey
- Survival Kids (Switch 2 exclusive but can be shared to Switch 1)
- Split Fiction (Switch 2 exclusive but can be shared to Switch 1)
- Fast Fusion (Switch 2 exclusive)
Do Nintendo Switch 1 games work on Switch 2?
Yes, for the most part. The Switch 2 will be backwards compatible with Switch 1 games, so not only can you transfer your digital library of games to Switch 2, but you can plug in Switch 1 cartridges too.
However, some Switch 1 games currently have compatibility issues on Switch 2, which means they won’t run as smoothly as they should. You can see the full list of such games on Nintendo’s website and the company says it is currently investigating them to improve their compatibility.
Some of the ones that don’t work though, are simply because the size of the Joy-Cons has changed, which is a problem for titles like Ring Fit Adventure.
Do Nintendo Switch 1 Joy-Con controllers work on Switch 2?
Yes, you can use the Switch 1 Joy-Con controllers to play games on the Switch 2. However, you can’t connect them to the Switch 2 by slotting them into the sides.
Instead of rails, the Switch 2 uses magnets to attach its new Joy-Con 2 controllers, so the Switch 1 controllers simply aren’t compatible – especially as the new ones are bigger too.
To use Switch 1 controllers on Switch 2, you need to pair them wirelessly using the Controllers tab on the home menu. You will also need to slot them into the Switch 1 to charge them up or use an accessory like a charging stand.
Can the Nintendo Switch 2 be put into the Switch 1 dock?
No, the Switch 2 is not compatible with the Switch 1 dock. If you want to connect it to your TV, you need to use the dock that is included with the Switch 2.
You will also need to use the HDMI cable that comes with the console. However, you can use the Switch 1’s charger with the Switch 2 as long as it’s in handheld mode and not docked.
Is the Nintendo Switch 1 being replaced?
Not yet. Nintendo still intends to support the Switch 1 for the foreseeable future and release new games for it, with some already slated for 2026.
Some games this year, such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A, will be cross-gen releases, meaning they’ll be available on both Switch 1 and Switch 2. So, if you choose not to upgrade to Switch 2, you won’t be forced to miss out on these games.
However, this won’t be the case for all future Nintendo games. A handful are already confirmed to be exclusive to the Switch 2, such as Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, so you will need the newer console to play these.
Should you buy a Nintendo Switch 2 now?
Whether or not you should buy a Switch 2 right away is entirely dependent on what sort of games you’re interested in – and whether you have the money.
If Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a firm favourite, then it can be worth grabbing a Switch 2 just for sequel Mario Kart World. However, the Switch 2’s launch line-up has very few brand new games and mostly consists of ports from the PlayStation and Xbox consoles, such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Street Fighter 6.
Prominent Nintendo games, like Donkey Kong Bananza, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and the upgraded port of Super Mario Party Jamboree (which adds new modes and minigames), won’t be out until later in the year.
So, it could be worth waiting until more games are available before investing in a Switch 2. Otherwise, you may find yourself only using it to play Switch 1 games.
How much does the Switch 2 cost?
On its own, the console costs £395.99, which includes a dock and a pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers.
If Mario Kart World is enough to warrant an early purchase, then we advise you try and get the Switch 2 bundle that includes a digital copy of the game. It costs £429.99 so you will be getting Mario Kart World almost half price.
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