Nintendo Reveals Free Performance Boosts for Switch 1 Games on Switch 2

Nintendo has unveiled an exciting list of Switch 1 games that will receive free performance upgrades when played on the Nintendo Switch 2. This initiative aims to enhance the gaming experience for fans by leveraging the superior capabilities of the new console. Titles such as Arms, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, Super Mario Odyssey, and The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom are among those slated for significant improvements.

According to Nintendo's official statement on their website:

By connecting your Nintendo Switch 2 to the internet and performing a system update, you can download free updates for selected games that may improve graphics or add support for features such as GameShare. The contents of these free updates will differ depending on the game.

So, what improvements can Nintendo Switch 2 owners anticipate? For instance, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet will benefit from "improved image quality" tailored for high-resolution TVs and a refined framerate for "smoother movement." On the other hand, Super Mario Odyssey will introduce HDR support and GameShare functionality, allowing two players to enjoy the game together online—one controlling Mario and the other managing Cappy.

Curiously, the list does not mention framerate enhancements for the top-down Zelda games, which is a notable and somewhat disappointing omission considering their known performance issues.

For more insights into Nintendo's latest ventures, don't miss our interview with Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser, where he discusses the recently opened Nintendo San Francisco store and other Nintendo Switch-related topics.

Nintendo San Francisco Store Photos

View 47 ImagesHere’s a detailed breakdown of the free updates available for selected Nintendo Switch games:

51 Worldwide Games

Software update release date: 05/06/2025

GameShare support: Enjoy up to four-player gameplay across 34 games. Connect locally or online via GameChat for an enriched gaming experience.

ARMS

Software update release date: 05/06/2025

Visuals: Enhanced for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs, promising a superior image quality.
Framerate: Optimized for smoother gameplay, even with three or more players.
HDR support: Elevate your visual experience with high dynamic range.

Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain

Software update release date: 05/06/2025

GameShare support: Engage in Party Mode with up to four players. Connect locally or online via GameChat.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Software update release date: 05/06/2025

Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs, ensuring a crisp image quality.
HDR support: Enjoy richer colors and contrasts.
GameShare support: Two players can explore all courses together. Connect locally or online via GameChat.

Game Builder Garage

Software update release date: 05/06/2025

Visuals: Enhanced for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs, delivering stunning visuals.
Supports Joy-Con 2 mouse controls: For a more precise gaming experience.

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe

Software update release date: 05/06/2025

Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs, offering enhanced image quality.

Pokémon Scarlet & Pokémon Violet

Software update release date: 05/06/2025

Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs, providing an improved image quality.
Framerate: Enhanced for a smoother gameplay experience on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

Software update release date: 05/06/2025

Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs, ensuring a high-quality image.
Framerate: Improved for smoother gameplay, including in Bowser's Fury.
HDR support: For a more vibrant visual experience.
GameShare compatibility: Up to four players can enjoy Super Mario 3D World, while two can play Bowser's Fury, with one controlling Mario and the other Bowser Jr. Connect locally or online via GameChat.

Super Mario Odyssey

Software update release date: 05/06/2025

Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs, ensuring a sharper image quality.
HDR support: For a more immersive visual experience.
GameShare support: Two players can join forces, one controlling Mario and the other Cappy. Connect locally or online via GameChat.

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

Software update release date: 05/06/2025

Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs, promising an enhanced image quality.
HDR support: For a richer visual experience.

The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening

Software update release date: 05/06/2025

Visuals: Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs, delivering a refined image quality.
HDR support: For a more dynamic visual experience.