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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Nintendo Switch 2 can download updates for installed games automatically when it is online and Software Auto-Updates is enabled. You can also check a game manually from its HOME Menu icon. What an update changes—and whether a particular game requires it—depends on that title, so check the publisher’s update notes rather than assuming every update is mandatory.
What a game update changes
A game update applies to that specific software. Depending on the title and its patch notes, it may address bugs, adjust game balance, add content, or change compatibility. Nintendo’s general update instructions explain how to download updates, but they do not provide a complete catalogue of changes for every game. For details about a specific patch, look for update notes from the game’s publisher.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Mario Kart™ World (Nintendo Switch 2) | $79.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
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 |
Some original Nintendo Switch games also offer a free update or a paid upgrade that adds content or improves performance on Switch 2. These options vary by game; check the title’s official page for availability and any price. Nintendo’s Switch 2 compatibility information explains the distinction.
Do you need to download an update?
Nintendo says an available update may prompt you to download it when you start a game or application while the console is online. That prompt does not mean every update is required in every situation. Requirements can depend on the game and what you want to do with it. If you need to know whether a particular update is required—for example, for a feature or online play—check that game’s official update notes or support information.
#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
How to update a game on Switch 2
Turn on automatic updates
- Connect your Switch 2 to the internet.
- From the HOME Menu, open System Settings.
- Choose System, then Software Auto-Updates, and turn the setting on.
Nintendo says updates for installed software download automatically while the console is connected to the internet with this setting enabled. Nintendo Support’s software update instructions describe the setting and manual update steps.
Check one game manually
- Connect the console to the internet.
- On the HOME Menu, highlight the game’s icon without starting it.
- Press + or − to open the software options.
- Choose Software Update, then Over the Internet.
Game updates and system updates are different
A game update changes one title; a system update changes the console software. Nintendo’s Switch 2 system update history lists console-level changes, not patch notes for individual games. Its latest listed release is version 23.0.0, released September 9, 2026. The notes include changes involving GameChat, virtual game card settings, and VRR support in TV mode when supported by the software and television, along with general stability improvements. Those system changes do not establish that a particular game was updated.
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
Do you need a memory card to download updates?
No memory card is identified as a requirement for downloading a game update. A compatible microSD Express card is an optional way to expand storage; Nintendo says Switch 2 is designed for this card format and requires system version 20.1.0 to use one. See Nintendo’s microSD Express card guidance for compatibility details.
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.
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
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.
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