To update a game on Nintendo Switch 2, use the game’s software-update option from the HOME Menu and follow the console’s prompts. The exact menu wording can vary, so use Nintendo’s current instructions and the game’s own support page if the option or requirement is unclear. A game update is separate from a Nintendo Switch 2 system update.
Update a game from the HOME Menu
Nintendo’s support index directs players to software support pages for game-specific update data and questions. The exact button-by-button instructions are not established in the available Nintendo material here, so check the console’s current labels as you proceed.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Mario Kart™ World (Nintendo Switch 2) | $79.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Star Fox™ - Nintendo Switch 2 | $59.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Donkey Kong Bananza (Nintendo Switch 2) | $69.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Pokémon Pokopia - Nintendo Switch 2 | $69.00 | Buy on Amazon |
- Connect the console to the internet.
- On the HOME Menu, highlight the game you want to update.
- Open the game’s options and choose the software-update command.
- Select the internet update option if it is offered, then follow the on-screen prompts.
This is the commonly used console flow, not a verified, fixed sequence for every system version or region. If the game is open and the console asks you to close it before updating, do so.
Check what update the game needs
Nintendo publishes update notices for individual games. Check the support page for the specific title to find its version number, release date and any listed changes. For example, Nintendo’s notice for Nintendo Switch 2 のひみつ展 lists version 1.1.1 dated September 24, 2026; that is a title-specific example, not a version that applies to other games. See Nintendo Support and the relevant game notice.
#1 Best Overall
- Race from one course to another through interconnected paths that span the world
- Traverse mountains, forests, cities, and more—with shifting weather patterns and a day/night cycle
- Ride on rails, jump off walls, skim across water, and more as you race for the finish line
- Take on the adrenaline-packed Knockout Tour—a fierce 24-driver elimination mode
- Explore courses at your own pace and wander the world to discover fun surprises in Free Roam
Some Nintendo Switch software needs downloaded update data to run on Switch 2, while other updates add a Switch 2-specific experience. Requirements and compatibility details differ by game, so do not assume that one title’s update applies to another. Use the individual title’s official support entry for the current details.
Make sure there is room for the download
A game update may require sufficient free storage. Nintendo’s update guidance for a Kirby title says the data can require space in system storage or on a microSD card, and that saved data remains usable after the update data is downloaded. Check the game’s stated size and the console’s available storage before deciding whether to remove anything or change storage.
Rank #2
- Blast off on a high-octane adventure to save a star system from invasion
- Tear through space, soar across planets, and shoot loads of foes out of the sky at every step of the way
- A cinematic take on the Star Fox 64 story, featuring fully voiced dialogue, an epic orchestral soundtrack, and a complete visual overhaul for the Nintendo Switch 2 system
- Enter first-person mode to experience the action from inside the cockpit, and even use mouse controls to fly
- Invite a second player* to join you as a gunner using Nintendo Switch 2 mouse controls
On Switch 2, some update data cannot be moved to microSD Express; Nintendo also notes that software data may be stored in another location after an update. See Nintendo’s data-management guidance for details. A storage card is not a routine requirement for updating games.
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Routine game update
This updates an installed game. Check that game’s official notice for its current version and release details.
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Rank #3
- Explore a vast underground world—by smashing your way through it!
- A brand-new 3D platforming action adventure starring Donkey Kong and Pauline
- Bash through just about anything in groundbreaking exploration! Crash through walls and carve tunnels—the more you smash, the more areas open up to you
- Pair up with Pauline to use Bananza Transformations: smash through obstacles with the raw strength of Kong form, gallop with incredible speed as a Zebra, and more
- Team up with a friend in two-player co-op as Donkey Kong and Pauline! Blast foes and terrain alike with Pauline’s voice as you explore together
First-use download for a game-key card
A game-key card requires an internet connection and free storage to download the software data the first time the game is played. This initial download is separate from a later routine game update. Nintendo’s instructions specify system memory or microSD Express as storage locations; see Nintendo’s game-key-card guidance.
Console system update
A system update changes the console’s system software, not an individual game. Nintendo says system update data downloads automatically when the console is connected to the internet; the manual route is through System Settings. Follow Nintendo’s system-update instructions if the console itself needs updating.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Shape the world and build a cozy new life with Pokémon as a Ditto transformed to look like a human.
- Use other Pokémon’s moves, like Bulbasaur’s Leafage, to revitalize and navigate the world around you.
- Meet and befriend more Pokémon as you help nature flourish.
- Gather materials to create items and furniture, till the fields to grow delicious crops, build homes for the Pokémon you meet, and more—there’s so much to do!
- Experience a world with varied weather, real-time days and nights, and other surprises.
If the update does not appear or complete
- Confirm the title: Open the support entry for the exact game and check whether it lists update data or a Switch 2 requirement.
- Check the connection: The internet-update option and first-use game-key-card download require internet access.
- Check free space: Make room in system storage or supported card storage if the console reports insufficient space.
- Follow the console’s prompt: If it asks you to close the game or take another action, follow that instruction and retry.
- Separate game and console updates: If the prompt concerns system software, use the system-update instructions rather than treating it as a game update.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
