Nintendo Announces Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Packs with Perks for Switch Online + Expansion Pack Subscribers

Nintendo has revealed a significant update for existing Nintendo Switch titles, announcing the launch of paid "Switch 2 Edition" upgrade packs for a curated selection of games.

This initiative, which further aligns the current Nintendo Switch platform with upcoming hardware evolution, is set to bring enhanced features and improved performance to fan-favorite titles. The new upgrade packs, slated for release starting April 2025, will offer graphical and gameplay enhancements for select Nintendo Switch hits.

However, Nintendo has unveiled a major benefit for active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers: many of these upgrade packs will be available at no additional cost to members who own the respective games.

To access these upgrades, players simply need a physical or digital copy of an eligible title and an active subscription to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service. According to official statements from Nintendo, the company stated that "Switch Online + Expansion Pack members can access specific upgrade packs at no extra charge, provided they own the base game and maintain an active membership." This marks a strategic move to add value to the company’s premium online subscription, incentivizing existing and new users to maintain their membership as Switch transitions into its next hardware phase. The games confirmed so far to be receiving these Switch 2 Edition upgrades include critically acclaimed titles from the Zelda series—namely, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.

Additional games receiving paid upgrade support feature marquee properties such as Mario Party Jamboree, Kirby and the Forgotten Land, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and the highly anticipated Metroid Prime 4 Beyond. For some titles, such as Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Nintendo is offering completely free upgrade paths, allowing all existing owners to benefit from new enhancements without any additional cost or subscription requirements.

This approach further demonstrates Nintendo’s commitment to supporting its community and rewarding existing players. The Switch Online + Expansion Pack service has become increasingly central to Nintendo’s ecosystem since its initial launch, providing access to classic game libraries, downloadable content, and member-exclusive offers.

The inclusion of gratis Switch 2 Edition upgrades for top-tier titles elevates the value proposition for subscribers, especially as Nintendo readies its user base for the forthcoming hardware generation. As more details arrive via official Nintendo Direct presentations and updates on the Nintendo eShop, players can anticipate expanded support and potential announcements for additional games.

With this initiative, Nintendo continues to reinforce its reputation for long-term software support, digital innovation, and rewarding its loyal player base through meaningful subscription benefits.

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