Is Nintendo Switch 2 Backwards Compatible?

The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here, but many will be wondering whether they can straight up replace their trusty old Switch console with the successor, or whether they'll need to hold onto the first hybrid console to play their old games.

In this guide, we'll be covering the Nintendo Switch 2's backwards compatibility, whether Nintendo Switch Online is available on the system, and how to play older games on the Switch 2.

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So, can the Switch 2 play Nintendo Switch games?

Yes, it can! You'll be able to play both physical and digital Switch 1 games on the new console. That's a relief, right? No one wants to lose their 600 hours of gameplay in Breath of the Wild.

Except not all Switch 1 games will be compatible with the new console. We're assuming that Labo won't work on the successor, and that more-specialised games that require specific peripherals will also be incompatible, but we don't have any confirmation right now.

Can you transfer digital purchases to your Switch 2?

This hasn't been confirmed by Nintendo properly, but given that you'll be able to play your digital Switch 1 games on Switch 2, we think it's safe to say "yes".

We reckon it'll be the same process as when you transfer your data between consoles — all your digital games will be attached to your Nintendo Account, so when you link it to the new console, all your games will be ready and waiting to download on the eShop.

Is Nintendo Switch Online available on the new console?

Of course it is! Well, we say "of course", but you never can be too sure, right?

Fortunately, Nintendo has confirmed that Nintendo Switch Online is available on Switch 2. We don't know if the subscription prices will be the same, whether all the apps will be available, or if anything new is coming to the service yet. Hopefully we'll get a little added extra for Switch 2.

For now, here's a list of all of the games and platforms available on NSO.

Switch 2 Backwards Compatibility FAQs

Need to know more about backwards compatibility, including how to play games not available on the system? Here are some frequently asked questions on the matter.

How can I play retro Nintendo games?

Pretty easily, thank goodness!

Nintendo Switch Online is the quickest way to play older games, especially if you already have a subscription to the current Switch — assuming all the same games and services are transferred over.

Some retro games are also available via compilations, such as the Cowabunga Collection (for your TMNT-obsessed friends) or the various Castlevania collections you can pick up.

Do I need to keep my original Nintendo Switch to play older games?

Unfortunately, because some games won't be compatible with the Switch 2, you might want to hold on to your old Switch.

We don't know what those games are yet, of course — Nintendo will share more info later, but Nintendo Labo-related games are a safe bet. Anyway, the Switch is so little, why wouldn't you want to hold onto it? It doesn't take up much space!

Are there any ports/remakes/remasters of older Nintendo games on Switch 2?

None have been confirmed so far, but we'd be surprised if no new ports or remasters were announced for the new console.

Barring that, you can (presumably) play Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, Live A Live, and a whole host of other remakes or rereleases from the Switch on the new console.

Not long to go now! If you're after more Nintendo Switch 2 advice, check out our Switch 2 guides for more useful info.