Nintendo’s original list named 12 Nintendo Switch games scheduled to receive free updates for Switch 2, beginning June 5, 2025. The enhancements vary by game: some improve visuals or frame rate, while others add HDR, GameShare support, or Joy-Con 2 mouse controls. Nintendo’s current update catalog has since grown beyond those 12 titles.
Which 12 games were on Nintendo’s original list?
Nintendo announced the list on May 29, 2025, describing the updates as free updates to improve playability on Nintendo Switch 2. The first updates were scheduled for June 5, 2025. The dated announcement is a historical list, not a complete catalog of every free Switch 2 update available now.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 System | $499.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 System with Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 Bundle | $568.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle with Bonus HDMI Cable & Screen Cleaning Cloth | $619.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| Nintendo Switch game | Enhancements documented by Nintendo |
|---|---|
| Pokémon Scarlet | Visual optimization and improved frame rate |
| Pokémon Violet | Visual optimization and improved frame rate |
| The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom | Visual optimization and HDR |
| Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury | Nintendo’s cited pages do not specify title-specific enhancements |
| Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics | Nintendo’s cited pages do not specify title-specific enhancements |
| ARMS | Image and frame-rate optimization, plus HDR |
| Super Mario Odyssey | Visual optimization, HDR, and GameShare support |
| Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain | Nintendo’s cited pages do not specify title-specific enhancements |
| The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening | Visual optimization and HDR |
| Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker | Visual improvements, HDR, and GameShare support |
| Game Builder Garage | Visual optimization and Joy-Con 2 mouse controls |
| New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe | Nintendo’s cited pages do not specify title-specific enhancements |
The original announcement says update contents differ by game and may improve graphics or add support for features such as GameShare. Nintendo’s later UK update page provides the title-specific examples shown above; it does not specify enhancement details there for every game on the original list. Nintendo’s May 29, 2025 announcement and Nintendo’s UK game-update page are the official references.
What does “improve playability” mean?
It does not describe one standard upgrade that all 12 games receive. Depending on the title, Nintendo documents improvements to image quality or frame rate, HDR support, GameShare, or mouse controls using Joy-Con 2. The listed examples identify features, not a promise that every player will notice the same visual or performance change under every display and play setup.
#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
Are these still the only free Switch 2 updates?
No. Nintendo’s UK catalog has added more games since the original 12-title announcement. It includes Splatoon 3 (June 12, 2025), Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 (October 2, 2025), Animal Crossing: New Horizons (January 15, 2026), Donkey Kong Country Returns HD (January 21, 2026), Pokémon Champions (April 8, 2026), Pikmin 3 Deluxe (September 1, 2026), and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (September 2, 2026). These dates are the dates shown on Nintendo’s UK page; availability and catalog details can differ by region.
How to download a free update on Switch 2
- Connect the Nintendo Switch 2 to the internet.
- Install a system update for the console if one is available. Nintendo says a system update is required before downloading these game updates.
- Start the game while the console is online. Nintendo says the game will prompt you to download its update once one is available.
Switch 2 supports compatible physical and digital Nintendo Switch games, but Nintendo cautions that some games may not be supported or fully compatible. Check the relevant title’s compatibility information if it does not run or behave as expected. Nintendo’s compatibility guide explains the qualification.
Rank #2
- The next evolution of the Nintendo Switch system
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Supports up to 4K resolution** when using a compatible game and TV connected via the included Nintendo Switch 2 dock
- Nintendo Switch 2 plays compatible physical and digital Nintendo Switch games.***
Free updates are not the same as Switch 2 Edition upgrade packs
A free update to an existing Switch game is separate from a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition or its upgrade pack. Nintendo says Switch 2 Edition content varies and can include visual improvements, new features, or additional modes. Owners of a Switch game may purchase an upgrade pack; Nintendo also makes some selected packs available at no additional cost to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members. The 12 updates in the original announcement do not require buying an upgrade pack to receive the announced free update. Nintendo’s Switch 2 Editions information describes that separate category.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- 【Ultimate Nintendo Switch 2 Bundle – Ready to Play】Includes the complete Nintendo Switch 2 console and a full-game download of Mario Kart World, so you can start racing right out of the box. Perfect for gamers of all ages and playstyles.
- 【Next-Gen Hybrid Gaming with Stunning Visuals】Experience a vivid 7.9‑inch 1080p LCD touchscreen with HDR support, and enjoy 4K TV output at up to 60 fps when docked — for immersive gameplay at home or on the go.
- 【Versatile 3 Play Modes】Seamlessly switch between Handheld, Tabletop, and TV modes — all featuring intuitive controls and smooth performance, wherever you choose to play.
- 【Enhanced Social Gaming with GameChat & Multiplayer】Connect with friends locally, enjoy online multiplayer with up to 24 players, and use voice chat via GameChat (internet connection and Nintendo Switch Online membership required after trial period).
- 【Powerful Storage & Joy‑Con 2 Controllers】Includes 256 GB internal storage (expandable with microSD), magnetic Joy‑Con 2 controllers, docking station, HDMI cable, AC adapter, grip, and straps — everything you need for the ultimate gaming setup.
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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