Features
If you already own a Nintendo Switch, it’s easy to move over to Nintendo Switch 2! You can transfer your games, save data and settings straight over to your new console, and you can also continue to play compatible Nintendo Switch games and use Nintendo Switch controllers wirelessly on Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo Switch Online members can continue to use the paid service on Nintendo Switch 2 as well.
In addition to Nintendo Switch 2 games, Nintendo Switch 2 can play compatible physical and digital games that have been released on Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Switch 2 console's hardware is different from Nintendo Switch, and some Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo is continuing to improve compatibility, including working with publishing and developing partners on making their games compatible with Nintendo Switch 2. Please see here for more information.
Using the system transfer feature, you can easily transfer any digital games you've purchased on Nintendo Switch, along with save data, to Nintendo Switch 2.
You can also transfer your Parental Controls and other settings as-is, so you and your child can safely enjoy Nintendo Switch 2 straight away. Please note that GameChat settings will need to be adjusted.
| What can be transferred with a system transfer? |
|---|
| Users including Nintendo Accounts that have already been linked |
| Purchased digital games |
| Game save data |
| Captured screenshots / videos |
| Various system settings |
| Parental Controls |
Once the system transfer has been completed, your digital games will automatically be redownloaded on your new console.
You can continue to play compatible Nintendo Switch games
In addition to Nintendo Switch 2 games, Nintendo Switch 2 can play compatible physical and digital games that have been released on Nintendo Switch.
Some Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2. Please see here for information.
By connecting your Nintendo Switch 2 to the internet, you can download free updates to improve resolutions, frame rates or add support for features such as GameShare in selected games. Contents of free updates differ depending on the game.
Selected Nintendo Switch games can be upgraded to a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition with an upgrade pack. With these upgrades, you can enjoy improved image quality, smoother frame rates, and even additional features and modes. The content of Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games differs depending on the game.
You can continue to use your existing Nintendo Switch Online membership.
Nintendo Switch Online is a paid service where you can enjoy benefits on your console such as playing online with friends and family, and a growing library of classic games.
Members can continue to enjoy these benefits on Nintendo Switch 2.
On Nintendo Switch 2, as well as being able to enjoy GameChat, you can also play Nintendo GameCube* games as part of the Nintendo Classics range.
GameChat is included with any Nintendo Switch Online paid membership.
*A Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership is required to play Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance and SEGA Mega Drive games.
Until March 31st 2026, GameChat can be enjoyed for free. Afterwards, a Nintendo Switch Online membership will be required.
See what's new on Nintendo Switch Online on Nintendo Switch 2
To use online services, you must create a Nintendo Account and accept the related agreement. The Nintendo Account Privacy Policy applies. Internet connection and paid Nintendo Switch Online membership required. Mobile phone number registration required to use GameChat. Children must get approval from a parent or guardian via the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app to use GameChat. Some online services may not be available in all countries.
You can also continue to use the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app.
The Nintendo Switch Parental Controls smart device app, where you can support a safe and fun environment for your child’s gaming experience, can be used with Nintendo Switch 2 as well.
Just like on Nintendo Switch, you can check up on your child’s gameplay time and see what they’re playing. For Nintendo Switch 2 there are also some new controls added, so you can see who your child is chatting with using GameChat, or limit video chat usage.
You can continue using your existing controllers.
Nintendo Switch 2 comes with a pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers in the box, and it’s also compatible with Nintendo Switch controllers such as the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and Joy-Con*.
*Nintendo Switch controllers can be used wirelessly and are also compatible with Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games, but cannot be used if the games requires features unique to Joy-Con 2, such as mouse controls.
You cannot exit sleep mode on Nintendo Switch 2 using the HOME Button on Nintendo Switch controllers such as Joy-Con and Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
On controllers without a C Button, you can start GameChat by selecting the option from the HOME Menu.
