Nintendo Fine Print Reveals 'Nintendo Switch 2 Edition' Games and Fans Are Trying to Work Out What That Means

Today's Nintendo Direct announcement of a new Virtual Game Cards feature for sharing games between systems has sparked both surprise and curiosity among fans. However, it has also led to some questions, particularly about the Nintendo Switch 2, due to a revealing footnote on an official Nintendo webpage.

The page detailing how Virtual Game Cards work is mostly clear, but a footnote at the bottom has caught everyone's attention. It states:

**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. To move virtual game cards between two systems, you must pair the systems via local wireless and an internet connection, but only when pairing the systems for the first time. Up to two systems total can be linked per Nintendo Account.

The phrase "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games" is causing a stir. While the mention of "exclusive games" is expected, as we knew certain games would be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, the term "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games" is less clear. Given that the Nintendo Switch 2 is largely backwards compatible with the original Switch, what exactly constitutes a "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition game"?

Some fans theorize that this could be a subtle confirmation of "enhanced editions" of existing Switch games, designed specifically for the Switch 2 with added features or improved performance. These editions would not be compatible with the original Switch, explaining why they cannot be shared between the two systems.

However, others believe this might not confirm anything specific. Instead, it could indicate that users won't be able to use the Virtual Game Card feature to send Nintendo Switch 2 games back to the original Switch, even if they are the same game. Another possibility is that this footnote simply leaves the door open for third-party developers to release their own "Nintendo Switch 2 Editions" of games in the future.

In an attempt to clarify these points, we reached out to Nintendo. A spokesperson informed us that they would provide an answer on April 2, coinciding with the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct. So, everyone, just a bit more patience is required.