Can I play Switch 2 games on my Switch 1?

The Switch 2 is finally here, and so are its few launch titles. But while most Nintendo fans are wondering which games they can access on their shiny new Switch 2, a few are clinging to the past and pondering an entirely different question: “Can I play Switch 2 games on my original Switch console?”

The answer isn’t a resounding “No.” But it’s close.

Don’t get me wrong, this isn’t a Breath Of The Wild situation where a major launch title is available on both a brand-new console and that console’s predecessor. And you can play most Switch titles on the Switch 2. But anyone who didn’t get in early with a pre-order, or held off camping out at their local retailer to get one at midnight, can’t play most Switch 2 titles on an original Switch.

But “most” is the operative word here — not every Switch 2 launch title is a Switch 2 exclusive. 

Confused? Here’s a quick breakdown to clear things up. Prepare for some blunt disappointment and maybe a few surprises.

Can I play Mario Kart World on my Switch?

No.

Can I play The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?

No! Consider the not Switch 2 edition.

Can I play the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour on my Switch?

No, of course not. Now you’re just being ridiculous!

Can I play F-Zero GX on Nintendo Switch Online since I have the Expansion Pack for Switch?

That’s a fair question, but it’s a no.

Can I play that off-the-radar Unity game Survival Kids on Switch?

Nope.

Can I play Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S?

No 🙁

Can I play Deltarune Chapters 1-4 on my Switch 1?

Wait… yes? Yes, actually! The successor to the ever-iconic Undertale launched alongside the Switch 2, but it can be played on the Switch as well.

Sadly, there aren’t any other Switch 2 launch titles available to play on the original Switch. Still, if you’re looking to get in on the Switch 2 action but don’t have $500 to spare, you can fire up Deltarune Chapters 1-4 on your original Switch for only $24.99.

Editor-in-Chief for Robots Over Dinosaurs Anthony has been gaming since the 1980s. Working adjacent to the gaming industry for the last 20 years, his experience led him to open Robots Over Dinosaurs.

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