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.