Reports suggest that the next-generation Nintendo Switch will feature backwards compatibility. A well-known industry insider recently indicated that the upcoming console, informally dubbed Switch 2, will be able to play titles from its predecessor. Earlier in the year, Nintendo announced that it plans to unveil the new console in 2024, although specific details regarding its features or backwards compatibility have yet to be disclosed.
Nintendo Switch 2 Backwards Compatibility
This information was shared by tipster Nate the Hate, whose insights have frequently proven accurate in the realm of gaming leaks. He commented in a Reddit thread regarding the Switch 2, stating, “It has backwards compatibility support.”
This claim aligns with earlier reports suggesting the console would indeed support backwards compatibility. A third-party manufacturer of Switch peripherals had previously stated in April that the new device would be compatible with both physical and digital games from the existing library.
In another Reddit discussion, speculation arose regarding a potential update for the Switch 2 later this month. This speculation stemmed from a post by industry analyst David Gibson, which indicated that production of the new console was likely underway. Gibson noted, “No-one seems to have noticed the Nintendo assembler – Hosiden is spending ¥2bn on production equipment and ¥1bn on automation in FY3/25 for its major customer in amusement (Nintendo). I still expect news in September and a March 2025 release for the next device.”
In May, Nintendo verified that it would announce its successor to the Switch during the financial year concluding in March 2025. The company also projected sales of approximately 13.5 million Switch units during the current fiscal year. Meanwhile, Nintendo is preparing to launch new titles for the current Switch, including a new entry in the acclaimed The Legend of Zelda series, titled The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, set for release later this year.
However, a report from GamesIndustry.biz in the previous month highlighted concerns among developers, suggesting they should not anticipate the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2 within the current financial year, with expectations leaning towards an April or May 2025 launch.
