Nintendo mentioning Switch 2 Edition Games has players wondering about upgrade costs

At the March 27th Switch Direct, Nintendo announced its new Virtual Game Card feature. Gamers can convert digital titles into game cards to share or transfer to other consoles. However, the page promoting the feature has some fine print that also draws attention. The disclaimer hints that separate Switch 2 Edition Games will be available as upgrades or purchases.

To the relief of many Switch owners, Nintendo confirmed in January that the Switch 2 would be backwards compatible. Yet, today's Virtual Card Game unveiling has caused concerns about the upgrade path for current-gen titles. Nintendo explained: "Compatible systems must be linked to a Nintendo Account to use virtual game cards. Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games can only be loaded on a Nintendo Switch 2 system". The company using the "Switch 2 Edition" term is causing the most speculation.

Gamers knew that most physical and digital current-gen Switch games would work in the Switch 2. These titles may enjoy some features exclusive to the new console. Still, there is now the possibility of standalone optimized versions of older games. Switch 2 leaks have mentioned DLSS and a 120Hz display, which could benefit older titles. Nintendo may use these capabilities as an incentive to purchase Switch 2 Editions.

The question for Switch gamers is the cost of upgrades. Microsoft and Sony handle the situation quite differently. Xbox games offer Smart Delivery, where buyers receive the best version for their console. On the other hand, most PS4 titles run on the PS5, but some publishers sell updated versions for an additional expense. With Switch 2 Edition titles, Nintendo may follow the Sony model for backwards compatible games.

Nintendo unintentionally raised more questions about the upcoming console with its Switch Direct. Viewers also saw the ambiguous joy-con C button in a Nintendo Today! App promotion. Hopefully, the April 2nd Nintendo Direct will clarify questions about the Switch 2 controls and game upgrades.