6 Nintendo Switch games we're eager to replay on Switch 2

      The most thrilling aspect of unboxing a brand new game console is diving into a fresh experience that showcases the capabilities of the upgraded hardware. The launch lineup for the Nintendo Switch 2 is not lacking, though aside from Mario Kart World, much of it consists of ports like Split Fiction and Cyberpunk 2077. Additionally, purchasing a new console along with several games can be quite the financial burden.

      This is why backwards compatibility is such a crucial feature. We know that a few major Switch titles will receive special editions tailored for the Switch 2, while other games will benefit from the enhanced hardware. Once the initial excitement has subsided and we await the next Switch 2 release, here are six Switch games we are eager to revisit on the Switch 2.

      Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

      GameFreak

      Honestly, we are surprised that Pokémon Scarlet and Violet didn’t receive a full Switch 2 Enhanced upgrade. As the largest media franchise globally, these games struggle to run smoothly on the Switch. The frame rate is disappointing, the textures are uninspired, and crashes are frequent. Nevertheless, these titles sold tremendously well, but Pokémon fans deserve a better experience. We anticipated updates and patches to stabilize the game, but those never came. At least Pokémon Scarlet and Violet will have a second chance on the Switch 2 with improved frame rates and visuals. While we don’t expect them to run at 4K 60 fps, if they can maintain a stable 30 frames and reduce crashes, we would be thrilled to revisit the Paldea region, hoping not to face the same issues with Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

      The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom/Link’s Awakening

      Nintendo

      We’re offering you a two-for-one with Zelda titles: Echoes of Wisdom and Link’s Awakening. The latter is a remake of the cherished Game Boy classic, presented in a charming toy-like art style that is visually delightful. It retains the same format as its predecessor, yet it struggles significantly on the Switch. Meanwhile, Echoes of Wisdom, a brand new 2D Zelda entry featuring Zelda as the protagonist, also suffers from poor performance. We can overlook some performance issues in Tears of the Kingdom due to its ambitious nature, but there’s no reason these smaller titles can’t run smoothly. Both games are expected to receive enhancements in visual quality and HDR support, and we hope the Switch 2 can fix the performance problems.

      Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

      Omega Force

      Speaking of titles that overwhelmed the Switch, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity feels like it stretches the console’s capabilities to the limit. Musou games traditionally allow players to battle hordes of enemies in grand encounters, and Age of Calamity delivers in that aspect. However, it sacrifices performance to achieve this. We’re not asking for miracles, but a consistent frame rate would be fantastic on the Switch 2. Additionally, since Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is set to be a Switch 2 exclusive, it would be great to get reacquainted with this title in the meantime.

      Astral Chain

      PlatinumGames

      To be honest, we simply want a reason to replay Astral Chain. If you missed this gem on the Switch, make sure to grab it before the release of Switch 2 games gets too hectic. Developed by the renowned PlatinumGames, this game excels on every front. The story is quintessential anime, but one of the most unique narratives on the platform. You will need to learn to control two characters simultaneously chained together in combat—a concept that may seem intricate, but becomes surprisingly intuitive once you experience it firsthand. Similar to Bayonetta 3, Platinum used all their tricks to ensure this game runs at 60 FPS during battle, but the Switch 2 could lock that frame rate down while enhancing the visuals.

      Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury

      Nintendo

      It has been quite a while since Nintendo launched a console with a core Mario title. While Mario Kart stands out, it’s primarily a racing game rather than a platformer. With Donkey Kong Bananza appearing to be the major platform release for the launch year, revisiting this rare bundle will be satisfying. We’re especially interested in the Bowser’s Fury aspect, which we believe served as a test for the next Mario game. As a more self-contained experience, it's nice to have something casual and completive to enjoy intermittently. This game is also receiving a significant free update with improved visuals, frame rates, and HDR support. While Odyssey is a great choice, we’ve already played it extensively.