Nintendo Switch 2 Backwards Compatibility: What Works and What Doesn't

The Nintendo Switch 2 is almost here, and one of the biggest questions on everyone's mind is whether their existing game library will make the jump to the new console. The good news is that Nintendo has confirmed backwards compatibility for the vast majority of Switch games, but there are some important caveats to consider

The Current State of Compatibility

Nintendo has been updating their backwards compatibility list regularly, and the latest information shows significant improvements from earlier reports. As of the most recent update, the compatibility breakdown looks like this:

• 118 games have start-up issues and won't launch properly

• 50 games will start but experience in-game compatibility problems

• 54 games are expected to be fixed by launch day or shortly after

• The remaining thousands of Switch games should work without major issues

This represents a substantial improvement from earlier lists that showed more problematic titles. Nintendo appears to be working actively to resolve compatibility issues ahead of the June 5th launch date

Games That Won't Start on Switch 2

Some notable titles currently experiencing start-up problems include:

• DOOM: Eternal - Surprising given the game's popularity

• NBA 2K25 - Sports games often have compatibility quirks

• Dead by Daylight - Online multiplayer titles seem particularly affected

• Gang Beasts - Physics-heavy games showing issues

• Another Crab's Treasure - Even newer indie titles aren't immune

• FINAL FANTASY (specific version not specified)

The full list contains 118 titles, though Nintendo has indicated this number should decrease as they continue optimization work

Games With In-Game Issues

These 50 titles will boot up on Switch 2 but may experience problems during gameplay:

• Alan Wake Remastered - Likely graphics or performance related issues

• Alien: Isolation - Horror games often have unique technical requirements

• Fall Guys - Online connectivity could be the culprit

• Saints Row IV - Open-world games frequently have compatibility challenges

While these games are playable, users should expect potential crashes, graphical glitches, or performance problems until patches arrive

Joy-Con Dependency Issues

One category of games faces a different challenge entirely - those that require specific Joy-Con functionality:

Games Requiring Original Joy-Cons:

• Ring Fit Adventure

• 1-2-Switch

• Everybody 1-2-Switch

• Nintendo Switch Sports

• WarioWare: Move It!

• Game Builder Garage

• Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 01: Variety Kit

• Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 02: Robot Kit

• Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 03: Vehicle Kit

These titles depend on the unique motion sensing and IR camera capabilities of the original Joy-Con controllers. While the Switch 2's new controllers are backwards compatible for most games, these specific motion-control features apparently aren't fully supported

Completely Incompatible:

• Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04: VR Kit

The VR Kit is the only game confirmed as completely unplayable on Switch 2, likely due to hardware dependencies that can't be replicated

What This Means for Gamers

The backwards compatibility picture is largely positive. With thousands of Switch games in existence, having fewer than 200 titles with significant issues represents excellent compatibility rates. Most players will find their favorite games work without problems

For the games that do have issues, Nintendo's track record suggests many will receive patches post-launch. The company has been transparent about ongoing optimization work, and the improving compatibility numbers show they're taking this seriously

Planning Your Switch 2 Purchase

If you're considering upgrading to Switch 2, check whether your most-played games appear on the problematic lists. For most users, the compatibility issues won't significantly impact their gaming experience

Keep in mind that Nintendo plans to update these compatibility lists again before launch, so the situation may improve further. The company has also indicated that some games marked as problematic may be resolved by launch day

The Bigger Picture

Nintendo's approach to backwards compatibility with Switch 2 shows they understand how important game libraries are to their customers. While perfect compatibility across thousands of titles would be ideal, the current situation represents a strong effort to preserve existing investments in Switch software

The June 5th launch date is approaching quickly, and it seems likely that Nintendo will continue refining compatibility right up until release. For most players, the Switch 2 should provide a smooth transition that preserves their existing game collection while offering the benefits of new hardware

As always, Nintendo recommends checking the official compatibility lists for your specific games before making purchasing decisions. These lists will continue to be updated as launch approaches and beyond