Nintendo Switch 2 Compatibility Guide: Games, Controllers & Accessories

With the official announcement of Nintendo Switch 2 (read more about the release date), players' expectations for this new console have reached their peak. Beyond curiosity about the new console's performance and features (see our first look review), many are concerned about Switch 2's compatibility with existing Switch accessories. After all, many players have invested significantly in various Switch accessories, and incompatibility with the new console would undoubtedly cause inconvenience and financial loss. This article will provide a detailed analysis of Switch 2's compatibility with Switch accessories, aiming to offer valuable reference information for players.

I. Nintendo Switch 2 Game Compatibility

Nintendo has confirmed that Nintendo Switch 2 will offer extensive backward compatibility with existing Nintendo Switch games, supporting both physical and digital versions. However, some limitations exist:

• Most digital and physical Nintendo Switch games will work on Switch 2
• The Nintendo Labo series may face compatibility issues due to form factor changes
• Games requiring specific Joy-Con features (like IR camera) may need additional support
• Some games may receive optimization patches for Switch 2

II. Nintendo Switch 2 Controller Compatibility

A. Joy-Con Controller Compatibility

The Nintendo Switch 2 maintains strong compatibility with existing controllers. Key compatibility features include:

• Full compatibility with original Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons
• Bluetooth connection support for existing controllers
• Backward compatibility with Switch Pro controllers

New Switch 2 Joy-Con improvements include:

• Larger size
• Magnetic rail structure instead of sliding rails
• Metal buttons for SL/SR shoulder buttons
• Addition of a third button on each side
• New function button below the HOME button on the right controller

These changes may provide better operating experience for players, but compatibility with games that rely on specific controller features remains to be seen.

B. Pro Controller Compatibility

The Nintendo Switch 2 offers complete compatibility with existing Nintendo Switch Pro controllers, providing:

• Seamless connection via Bluetooth
• Full button mapping support
• Same functionality as on original Switch

III. Memory Card Compatibility

According to Reddit leaks of Switch 2's accessory list (see our comprehensive price breakdown), the console will support microSDExpress cards of 256GB, 512GB, and even 1TB capacity. SDExpress cards retain the existing SD interface while adding PCIe NVMe interface, delivering SSD-level performance and large capacity, which will help players better store game data and downloaded content, enhancing the gaming experience. However, it's currently unclear whether Switch 2 will be fully compatible with existing microSD cards. If compatibility issues exist, players may need to purchase new microSDExpress cards to meet their storage needs.

IV. Dock Compatibility

Switch 2 will still feature a USB-C port and support a new generation dock with similar appearance but capable of 4K output. This suggests that players' previously purchased docks may not work directly with Switch 2. However, considering the relatively low price of docks and the improved functionality of the new generation dock, this compatibility issue should have minimal impact on players.

V. Other Accessory Compatibility

A. Screen Protectors and Game Cases

Screen protectors and game cases are commonly used accessories for protecting the console and game cartridges. Since Switch 2's dimensions are larger than the existing Switch, current screen protectors and game cases may not fit perfectly. Players may need to purchase new dedicated accessories to protect their Switch 2.

B. Joy-Con Charging Grip

The Joy-Con charging grip is another commonly used accessory for charging Joy-Con controllers. According to leaks, Switch 2's accessory list includes a Joy-Con charging grip, but it's currently unclear whether it will be compatible with existing Joy-Con controllers. If compatibility issues exist, players may need to purchase new Joy-Con charging grips.

VI. Potential Solutions for Compatibility Issues

Despite some compatibility issues, Nintendo may address these problems in various ways. For games that aren't directly compatible due to hardware changes, Nintendo might work with game developers to provide patches for Switch 2 compatibility. Additionally, for games that rely on specific controller features, Nintendo might offer alternative solutions, such as supporting wireless connection with original Joy-Cons. Through these efforts, Nintendo hopes to minimize the impact of compatibility issues on players and ensure a smooth transition to the new console platform.

VII. Nintendo Switch 2 Compatibility Summary

The Nintendo Switch 2 demonstrates strong compatibility with existing Nintendo Switch ecosystem:

• Games: Most existing games supported
• Controllers: Full compatibility with Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers
• Storage: Support for new microSDExpress cards
• Accessories: Partial compatibility with existing accessories

For the most up-to-date Nintendo Switch 2 compatibility information, we recommend checking Nintendo's official announcements and our detailed reviews (see our first look article). Understanding these compatibility details will help you make informed decisions when upgrading to the Nintendo Switch 2 platform.