Can I play Nintendo Switch 1 games on the Nintendo Switch 2?

The highly-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is on the way with an upgraded size and features that all gamers are looking forward to.

Nintendo announced on Jan. 16 that one of those features is backward compatibility, which is expected in all upgraded consoles nowadays.

READ MORE: 9 new Nintendo Switch games finally on sale before the Nintendo Switch 2 comes out

But the video game company hasn’t fully explained yet which Nintendo Switch 1 games will be compatible with the next-gen console.

It’s important to know that all the money you’ve spent on your favorite Nintendo Switch 1 games won’t go to waste. You won’t have to replace most of them just because you’re upgrading to the Switch 2.

Here’s all the information released so far about the Nintendo Switch 2’s backward compatibility.

Can I play Nintendo Switch 1 games on the Switch 2?

So far, Nintendo has revealed that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be able to play most games from the previous generation along with Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games.

That includes physical and digital Nintendo Switch 1 games. However, the video game giant explained that some games may not be compatible.

READ MORE: Where can I buy the Nintendo Switch 2?

“Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2,” Nintendo says.

Nintendo Switch owners will have to wait to hear exactly which games the new console will support during the upcoming Nintendo Direct showcase on April 2 at 9 a.m. EST.

Top Nintendo Switch deals available now

If you can’t wait for Nintendo to release the Switch 2, there are several Switch 1 deals you can take advantage of now.

Either stock up on games you’ve been eyeing for a while or a whole console you’ve been waiting to reach a more affordable price.

Here are some of the best deals you can snag now from Amazon and Walmart:

Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy‑Con for $278, instead of $300

Nintendo Switch (OLED model) with White Joy-Con for $339, instead of $370

Nintendo Switch Lite - Yellow for $153, instead of $190

Just Dance 2025 Edition – Limited Edition with Ariana Grande Song Pack for $30, instead of $50

Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition for $48, instead of $60

Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed for $40, instead of $59

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom for $50, instead of $70

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Victoria Rosenthal can be reached at vrosenthal@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.