In a nutshell

• Switch 2 physical games are essentially repackaged Switch 1 cartridges – Instead of containing fully upgraded versions, these physical editions include the original Switch game with a code for the upgrade pack.
• Download codes required for enhancements – Players must have internet access to redeem and download the upgrade pack, raising concerns.
• These games have performance improvements and extra features that require a separate purchase, unlike standard backward-compatible Switch 1 titles.

As more information surfaces about the Switch 2 after its full price and launch reveal, details about the physical Switch 2 Edition games just being Switch 1 cartridges packed with a download code have become a cause for concern.

Physical Nintendo Switch 2 Games not “Complete?”

In essence, this means that the Switch 2 physical carts are simply repackaged Switch 1 carts. As seen in posts by Wario64 and Does it play, a Nintendo customer service representative reportedly confirmed that the upgrade packs will be distributed via download codes rather than being pre-installed on the cartridges.

The packaging for these editions explicitly states: “Includes the Nintendo Switch game and the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack. Upgrade pack also available separately.” This disclaimer suggests that players will need an internet connection to access and download the upgraded content.

To clarify, Nintendo Switch 2 Edition titles are Switch 1 games that have improved performance or added features that will come via an update that can be purchased separately. This is different from backward-compatible Switch 1 titles, which will simply work without enhancements. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and Pokémon Legends Z-A are such examples of games that will be receiving upgrade packs.

What do you think of this situation about physical editions of games not receiving the full set of upgrades?