From Nintendo Switch to Switch 2: Which Games Are Making the Jump?

Intro: A New Era for Nintendo Fans

Nintendo fans, get ready—change is coming. With whispers turning into leaks and leaks becoming solid rumours, the Nintendo Switch 2 is closer than ever. As the original Nintendo Switch continues to be one of the most successful gaming consoles of all time, gamers are asking one huge question: Which games are making the jump to Switch 2?

The Nintendo Switch launched in 2017 and has since brought us unforgettable titles like Super Mario Odyssey, Pokémon Sword and Shield, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 promises upgraded graphics, smoother gameplay, and possibly even 4K support when docked. But will your favourite titles transition smoothly? Will Nintendo give us sequels, remasters, or a new generation of game mechanics?

In this guide, we’ll unpack the confirmed and rumoured Nintendo Switch 2 games, discuss backward compatibility, explore Joy-Con improvements, and reveal which popular titles like Mario Maker 2, Octopath Traveler, and Red Dead Redemption might return better than ever.

 

What We Know So Far About Nintendo Switch 2

A Major Hardware Leap

The original Nintendo Switch changed the game—literally. Its hybrid design, letting you seamlessly switch between handheld and docked modes, has become a fan favourite. But the Switch 2 aims to take this to the next level with upgraded internals, a sleeker design, and modern features that push Nintendo closer to the power of the PS5 and Xbox Series X.

What’s Rumoured

Current leaks suggest the Switch 2 will include a 7-inch OLED screen, improved Joy-Con controllers with magnetic attachments, and perhaps even Nvidia DLSS support for upscaled 4K visuals. Storage capacity could also jump, allowing players to install more games without external cards. The hardware is expected to use a custom Nvidia chip for enhanced performance across the board.

Compatibility & Convenience

Another hot topic is Nintendo Switch 2 backwards compatibility. While not confirmed, multiple insiders have hinted that your current game library will work on the new console. That means titles like Overcooked, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and 1-2 Switch could play smoother and look sharper right out of the box. Nintendo may even launch a day-one patch or system update that enables cloud-save transfers for existing users.

Did you know? The Nintendo Switch has sold over 139 million units worldwide, making it the third best-selling console of all time.

Check out the future of gaming with our full gaming consoles collection.

Confirmed & Leaked Nintendo Switch 2 Games

First-Party Highlights

Nintendo may be secretive, but that hasn’t stopped fans and industry insiders from compiling a growing list of Nintendo Switch 2 games leaked ahead of the official announcement. While nothing is confirmed until Nintendo says so, several games seem all but certain to appear on launch day or shortly after.

Top of the list? Super Mario Odyssey 2. Building on the incredible success of its predecessor, this rumoured sequel promises more kingdoms, deeper mechanics, and even 2-player support. Pokémon Legends: Z-A, scheduled for release in 2025, is also a front-runner for Switch 2 optimisation. With more detailed environments and larger open-worlds, these titles will showcase the new console’s capabilities.

Third-Party Favourites

Third-party support is also growing. We’re likely to see graphically enhanced versions of hits like Red Dead Redemption, Octopath Traveler II, and Lego Marvel Heroes 2. These titles already have Switch versions, but new hardware could deliver better framerates, higher resolutions, and quicker load times. Developers like Square Enix and Rockstar are expected to announce updates or enhanced editions tailored for the new hardware.

Fun fact: The original Switch struggled with frame drops in titles like The Witcher 3. The Switch 2’s upgraded GPU may finally fix that.

What Else Could Arrive?

Expect new exclusives too, including a possible Donkey Kong Country reboot and Metroid Prime 4, making this console launch one of Nintendo’s biggest yet.

Which Nintendo Switch Games Will Carry Over?

Yes, Your Games Might Come Too

One of the biggest concerns among current Switch owners is whether their beloved titles will carry over. Fortunately, if leaks and analyst predictions hold true, the Nintendo Switch 2 will be backwards compatible with the vast majority of existing games.

That means your current collection of classics, from Mario Maker 2 to Super Mario Bros 2, should work on the new console with minimal effort. Some games may even get performance patches to take advantage of the Switch 2’s upgraded internals. Developers might offer free or low-cost updates to enhance existing games, similar to what we saw with PS4 to PS5 game upgrades.

Performance and Perks

The possibilities are exciting: Imagine playing Overcooked in 4K or enjoying buttery smooth animations in 1-2 Switch. Not only would this save gamers money, but it also creates a massive launch library right from the start. This also applies to Switch Nintendo Online Games, including retro classics, which may receive enhancements and support for new Joy-Con features. Multiplayer cross-play between Switch and Switch 2 users is also rumoured, which would keep friends gaming together across generations.

Did you know? Nintendo has a history of supporting backwards compatibility—from Game Boy Advance titles playable on the DS to Wii games running on the Wii U.

2 Player and Family Games – What’s Returning?

Co-op Favourites Coming Back

Nintendo has built a legacy on couch co-op and family-friendly multiplayer experiences, and the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to continue that tradition. Some of the most beloved 2-player games on the Switch—like Overcooked, 1-2 Switch, and Lego Marvel Heroes 2—are ideal candidates for graphical updates and feature enhancements. Imagine slicing onions or launching superheroes into action with improved visuals and haptic feedback via the new Joy-Con controllers.

What to Expect in Multiplayer

Expect Nintendo to release updated versions or sequels that take advantage of the Switch 2's capabilities. Titles like Nintendo Switch Sports may see new entries or expansions designed to push the console’s motion controls to new limits. Family favourites like Mario Party, Just Dance, and Snipperclips are also likely to appear early in the console’s life cycle.

Smoother Gameplay, Better Design

Better performance isn’t the only improvement. With the expected inclusion of upgraded wireless capabilities and a more responsive UI, it’ll be easier than ever to connect with friends and jump into games quickly. The new Joy-Con redesign may offer more comfortable ergonomics, especially during long multiplayer sessions.

Want to level up your co-op experience? Discover the latest Joy-Con and console bundles on our Nintendo Switch page.

Pokémon, Mario, and Nintendo’s Flagship Franchises

Pokémon Games for Nintendo Switch 2

When it comes to system-sellers, Pokémon is always at the top of the list. With Pokémon Legends: Z-A confirmed for 2025, many believe this will be one of the first major titles optimised for the Nintendo Switch 2. The new console could finally deliver open-world Pokémon experiences at a consistent framerate and higher resolution. Improved AI, larger towns, and more dynamic Pokémon encounters are just a few of the upgrades we expect.

Other Pokémon games for Nintendo Switch, like Sword and Shield, Scarlet and Violet, and even remakes like Let’s Go Pikachu & Eevee, could see enhanced re-releases with visual polish and performance boosts. Game Freak might even introduce a new entry exclusive to Switch 2 to take full advantage of the hardware.

Mario’s Next Chapter

Meanwhile, Super Mario Bros 2 and Mario Maker 2 remain fan favourites, and both could get updates or spiritual successors. Super Mario Odyssey 2 is rumoured to headline the Switch 2 launch, bringing new kingdoms, characters, and possibly cooperative gameplay.

Did you know? Super Mario Odyssey has sold over 26 million copies, making it one of the best-selling 3D platformers of all time.

Free and Online Games on the Nintendo Switch 2

Free-to-Play Favourites

Nintendo’s online services have grown significantly since the Switch's launch. Expect Switch 2 to expand on this with even more free games for Nintendo Switch and exclusive online content. From titles like Tetris 99 to F-Zero 99, we anticipate new free-to-play titles to drop in the early months.

Rumours also point to revamped versions of existing free games, optimised for smoother play, less latency, and richer visuals. Expect Nintendo to capitalise on the popularity of these games with exclusive cosmetics, events, and cross-play features.

Online Ecosystem Upgrades

Alongside new games, the Switch Nintendo Online Games catalogue will likely expand with improved connectivity and UI. Cloud save transfers, better friend systems, and possibly voice chat integration could all be part of the upgraded experience. The new Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers may also offer exclusive functionality in online titles.

Should You Upgrade or Wait?

Comparing the Consoles

Let’s break down whether you should make the leap to the Switch 2:

Who Should Upgrade Now?

If you’re a competitive gamer, content creator, or just want the best possible visuals and performance, the Switch 2 will be a worthy investment. But if you mainly enjoy indie or existing games, and don’t mind occasional frame drops, sticking with the current Switch might serve you well for another year or two.

Already sold? Get ahead of the rush with our Nintendo Switch 2 preorder options.

What About Other Consoles?

Looking Beyond Nintendo

While Nintendo has carved out its own space in the gaming world, some gamers might still be comparing consoles.

• The PS5 Console delivers next-gen exclusives like Spider-Man 2 and God of War Ragnarok with stunning 4K graphics.
• Xbox Series X excels in Game Pass value and third-party support.
• But for families, casual players, and Nintendo loyalists, nothing beats the hybrid portability and exclusivity of the Switch family.

Choose What Fits Your Playstyle

Whether you're into competitive online matches or relaxed co-op gaming with friends, the key is finding the platform that suits your lifestyle. Luckily, at Box.co.uk, we've got every base covered.

Compare all your options on our Gaming Consoles page.

Conclusion: The Future of Nintendo Gaming Looks Bright

The Nintendo Switch 2 represents not just an upgrade, but an evolution in how we play. With backwards compatibility, enhanced Joy-Con controllers, and a blend of returning favourites and fresh exclusives, it’s shaping up to be a must-have console for 2025.

Whether you’re excited for Super Mario Odyssey 2, nostalgic over Octopath Traveler, or hyped for open-world Pokémon adventures, this next generation promises something for everyone.

Explore, preorder, and prepare for Nintendo’s biggest leap yet – all at Box.co.uk.

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