Nintendo Switch 2: Free Performance Upgrades Announced for Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, Super Mario Odyssey, and More

Nintendo has officially confirmed a major wave of free performance upgrades for several flagship Nintendo Switch games, aiming to enhance the playability and technical quality of these titles on its upcoming next-generation hardware, the Nintendo Switch 2.

These updates, as detailed on Nintendo's official channels, will include not only improved framerates and stability but also select new features like GameShare support for compatible games. One of the most anticipated enhancements will come to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, the mainline RPG titles from Game Freak that have faced criticism since their November 2022 debut for pervasive performance issues, including frame rate drops and graphical glitches.

Nintendo has announced that the Switch 2 upgrade for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet will boost overall performance and deliver a smoother gameplay experience, though further specifics are forthcoming.

This move addresses long-standing feedback from the Pokémon community and demonstrates Nintendo’s commitment to ongoing support for its marquee franchises. Joining Pokémon Scarlet and Violet in receiving free Switch 2 upgrades are several other notable Nintendo Switch games.

Confirmed titles include: - ARMS - Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker - Super Mario Odyssey - Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury - Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics - The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening - The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom - Game Builder Garage - New Super Mario Bros.

U Deluxe - Big Brain Academy: Brain vs.

Brain These updates will arrive at no additional charge for existing owners and are expected to leverage the improved hardware capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2, promising faster load times, enhanced visuals, and smoother performance across supported titles.

Additionally, select games will benefit from expanded GameShare functionality, further enhancing multiplayer and social play opportunities on the new platform. Nintendo has clarified that some major titles—like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and the highly anticipated Metroid Prime 4: Beyond—will instead offer paid upgrade paths, introducing more substantial technological enhancements.

Notably, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will support a Mouse Mode feature with 4K resolution and 60 frames per second when played docked, setting a new technical benchmark for Switch first-party releases. With the Nintendo Switch 2 poised to launch soon, these upgrade initiatives signal the company’s dedication to delivering a seamless generational transition and ensuring continued value for loyal Nintendo Switch owners.

Gamers can look forward to revisiting their favorite titles with revitalized performance and greater functionality, all while maintaining access through the Nintendo eShop and direct digital downloads. For the latest official details and update availability, fans are encouraged to monitor Nintendo Direct presentations and visit Nintendo’s official website.

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