
For avid Nintendo Switch owners, it’s reassuring to know that a majority of your game library will transition smoothly to the upcoming Switch 2. However, certain titles are set to receive enhancements that promise a more enriching gaming experience.
These improvements typically include performance upgrades, elevating games that originally ran at 30 FPS to a smoother 60 FPS, and enhancing the resolution to enable 4K output or a more stable 1080p performance, which is crucial for games that previously struggled in this regard.
In addition to performance boosts, some games will incorporate GameShare support, enabling players to share their titles with friends online for cooperative play—even if those friends do not own the game themselves. This nostalgic feature harks back to the handheld DS era.
It’s notable, though, that some upgrades come at a price, typically around $10 for basic performance enhancements and up to $20 when new content is included. As more third-party developers explore the upgrade feature, we anticipate the list of enhanced Switch games will grow considerably, beyond just Nintendo’s announcements.
Complete List of Switch Game Upgrades

Game Title | Release Date | OpenCritic Score | Additions | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Kirby and the Forgotten Land | Aug 28, 2025 | 85 | Enhanced FPS and resolution, new Star-Crossed World DLC | $20 |
Super Mario Party Jamboree | Jul 24, 2025 | 81 | Higher resolution, GameShare support, Exclusive Jamboree TV mode with mouse control features | $20 |
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom | Jun 5, 2025 | 96 | Improved FPS, resolution, HDR support, Zelda Notes App | $10 |
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild | Jun 5, 2025 | 96 | Enhanced graphics and performance, improved load times, HDR support | $10 |
Pokémon Legends: Z-A | Late 2025 | TBD | Performance and resolution enhancements | $10 |
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond | 2025 | TBD | Improved load times; options for performance or quality modes; HDR support | $10 |
Super Mario Odyssey | Oct 27, 2017 | 97 | FPS boost and resolution improvement, GameShare support | Free |
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker | Jul 13, 2018 | 82 | Enhanced FPS and resolution, GameShare support | Free |
Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics | Jun 5, 2020 | 81 | Improved FPS and resolution, GameShare support | Free |
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury | Feb 12, 2021 | 89 | Enhanced FPS and resolution, GameShare support | Free |
Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain | Dec 3, 2021 | 73 | Enhanced FPS and resolution, GameShare support | Free |
ARMS | Jun 16, 2017 | 78 | Performance and resolution improvements | Free |
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe | Jan 11, 2019 | 79 | Improved FPS and resolution | Free |
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening | Sep 20, 2019 | 87 | Enhanced FPS and resolution | Free |
Game Builder Garage | Jun 11, 2021 | 77 | Improved FPS and resolution | Free |
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet | Nov 18, 2022 | 71 | Enhanced FPS and resolution | Free |
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom | Sep 26, 2024 | 85 | Improved FPS and resolution | Free |
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
A Whimsical Adventure

Kirby and the Forgotten Land, released in 2022, has gained a loyal following thanks to its engaging 3D adaptation of the beloved franchise. Initially, the game functioned at a capped 30 FPS with occasional framerate dips in more crowded scenes, which is now set to change with a consistent 60 FPS upgrade.
This beloved title was often viewed as a rare example that didn’t require additional patches, emphasizing HAL Laboratory’s dedication to quality. With the confirmed plans for a DLC campaign, known as Star-Crossed World, players can now look forward to entirely new levels and gameplay mechanics that expand upon the original adventure.
Super Mario Party Jamboree
Reviving the Party Spirit

The Mario Party franchise had seemed stagnant for a period, but Super Mario Party Jamboree rejuvenates the series by reintroducing classic gameplay elements while eliminating less popular mechanics like the car system. The incorporation of more characters and interactive boards has crafted a more enjoyable experience.
Although some mini-games may be lacking, the new Jamboree TV mode offers innovative gameplay possibilities, although it will likely require purchasing a separate camera accessory. The new features promise a fresh twist to the well-known formula.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Performance Enhancements for a Beloved Title

Breaking into the realm of premium upgrades, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom comes with a $10 upgrade that unlocks a stable 60 FPS and faster load times. The new features include access to a somewhat controversial Zelda Notes App, designed for note-taking and GPS navigation—but many players question its necessity.
While the goal of sharing autobuild schematics is commendable, nostalgia for manually constructing elements of the game remains strong among dedicated fans. It is hoped that such features justify the cost of the upgrade, especially given that other enhancements often provide similar performance boosts for free.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Smoothing the Experience

Similar to its sequel, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will also require a $10 fee for its upgrades, which include enhanced resolution and framerate. However, unlike Tears of the Kingdom, Breach of the Wild lacks the added functionality of sharing autobuilds, which raises questions regarding the overall value of this upgrade.
This performance boost is critical as the original game’s framerate drops significantly during intense gameplay scenarios, such as areas with lush vegetation. The upgrade aims to provide a smoother experience, alleviating performance issues common with the original release.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Rethinking Game Pricing

As we consider future releases, questions arise about Nintendo’s decision to offer paid upgrade packs instead of including them as part of the original $70 pricing. Pokémon Legends: Z-A will launch at a full price, which some argue is unfair given the subpar performance typical of recent Pokémon titles.
Although the game showcases visually appealing elements and introduces engaging gameplay mechanics, the paid performance boost raises concerns among gamers about the justification of the cost. With a promise of stable FPS, it remains to be seen if it can live up to player expectations.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
A Promising Upgrade

Fans are awaiting the long-anticipated release of Metroid Prime 4, and reports of its performance upgrades are highly encouraging. Promising enhancements such as 4K resolution at 60 FPS and impressive graphical fidelity hint that the Switch 2 can indeed match or exceed the capabilities of current-generation consoles.
One particularly exciting feature is the implementation of mouse controls, reminiscent of mods like PrimeHack, which are expected to elevate gameplay precision and responsiveness. For fans willing to spend the $10 on upgrades, this game may well deliver a worthwhile return on investment.
Super Mario Odyssey
Returning to a Classic

Despite its already remarkable performance at 1080p and 60 FPS, Super Mario Odyssey is also getting a boost. While the graphics improvements may not markedly enhance the experience, the introduction of GameShare features will provide an avenue to enjoy the game with friends, although multiplayer activities have typically been underwhelming.
This upgrade paves the way for returning players and potentially leveling the competitive edge for speedrunners who might find the framerate boost advantageous during their runs.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Enhancements for an Underrated Gem

An unexpected upgrade arrives for Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, renowned for its uniquely engaging puzzle-platformer experience. With previously stable performance on the original Switch, enhancements may provide marginal benefits, but they still excite players looking to revisit Toad’s adventures in vibrant detail.
Although the multiplayer mode initially seemed unnecessary, the free upgrade will appeal to casual and competitive gamers alike, encouraging them to explore the game’s cleverly designed levels with friends.
Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics
A Classic Reimagined

As a cherished collection of various board games, Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics earns a well-deserved spot on this list. Enhancements not only rejuvenate classic gameplay but also simplify the process of playing and sharing with friends around the globe. The GameShare integration is especially valuable, broadening the accessibility of local multiplayer experiences.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
Enhanced Multiplayer Dynamics

This dual offer combines vibrant gameplay and continues to surprise players with the creative multiplayer dynamics that both titles offer. Boosted performance will allow for more stable graphics and framerates, particularly important in Bowser’s Fury, where visual fidelity is crucial during intense gameplay.
The inclusion of GameShare further revitalizes the experience, allowing players to join in the fun without requiring each participant to own a copy of the game, addressing previous criticisms of the online multiplayer framework.
Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain
An Unexpected Upgrade

Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain, a title that had flown under the radar for many, receives an upgrade that emphasizes GameShare usefulness. This educational game provides an entertaining opportunity for multiplayer engagement, particularly among younger audiences. While graphical enhancements may seem unnecessary, it’s likely that this performance boost addresses minor framerate dips that occurred during more complex games.
ARMS
Resurrecting Competitive Play

Among the titles receiving a straightforward upgrade, ARMS offers improved performance and resolution, but lacks the confirmed GameShare feature. Given its multiplayer focus, many players will find this essential social element absent.
The game’s previous framerate issues are expected to be resolved with the upgrade, enhancing the gaming experience and decreasing input lag for improved competitive play.
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
A Classic Revisited

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe may lack the confirmed GameShare addition, which is surprising given its multiplayer focus. Despite a somewhat bland title, this 2D platformer continues to captivate players with its accessible gameplay.
The performance upgrade, raising it to 4K and 120 FPS, is an interesting enhancement for a game that doesn’t necessarily require it, amplifying visual fidelity without diminishing the enjoyment derived from classic platfoms.
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
Optimizing a Beloved Classic

The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening remake struggled with performance, particularly with frame consistency. The upcoming enhancements should help offer more stable performance and graphical fidelity, making it an alluring choice for both new and returning players.
This upgrade serves as an opportunity for those who missed out on the original to experience a lovingly crafted title that truly captures the spirit of the Zelda franchise while performing at its best.
Game Builder Garage
Enhancing Creativity

Game Builder Garage, a reachable game engine for aspiring developers, looks to improve overall graphical performance with clean-ups to pre-existing issues. Although it faced minimal performance challenges, the resolution bump and FPS enhancements may significantly elevate the user experience, particularly for visually complex projects.
There’s potential for new game modes that push the limits of creativity, further enriching the experience for budding game developers. It’s an intriguing upgrade for those ready to harness their creativity using the Switch 2’s capabilities.
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
A Well-deserved Upgrade

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet’s reception was marred by critical performance issues, which this upgrade aims to rectify. Delivering a more stable framerate and visual quality should encourage players to revisit a game that showcases engaging storytelling and gameplay.
Notably, seeing the disparity in upgrade approach when comparing it to Pokémon Legends: Z-A pricing sparks questions about Nintendo’s broader strategy moving forward. Given the favorable updates for Scarlet and Violet, many fans hope this will lead to a new wave of appreciation for the game.
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Addressing Performance Flaws

The performance woes of The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom are well-documented, often leading to frustrating gameplay experiences due to erratic framerates. The anticipated upgrades provide hope for a drastically improved experience, potentially stabilizing performance to a consistent 60 FPS.
The allure of exploring a new Zelda adventure in enhanced graphics only serves to strengthen the excitement leading up to the Switch 2’s release. Players can anticipate a refined gaming experience that addresses many of the frustrations prevalent at launch.
Leave a Reply