Nintendo Switch 2 to support backwards compatibility, Switch Online

Nintendo just gave an update on Switch 2 during its Corporate Management Policy Briefing. According to president Shuntaro Furukawa, backwards compatibility is planned – meaning you’ll be able to play current Switch software on the system. Furthermore, Nintendo Switch Online will be extended to the new platform.

In hindsight, both of these elements feel like fairly obvious inclusions. For one thing, Nintendo has looked to continually increase the appeal of Switch Online over the years with additional benefits, including last week’s launch of Nintendo Music. Also, while there have been some exceptions, Nintendo has been known for its backwards compatibility functionality with many of its devices.

Here’s the full statement from Furukawa:

This is Furukawa. At today’s Corporate Management Policy Briefing, we announced that Nintendo Switch software will also be playable on the successor to Nintendo Switch. Nintendo Switch Online will be available on the successor to Nintendo Switch as well. Further information about the successor to Nintendo Switch, including its compatibility with Nintendo Switch, will be announced at a later date.

Earlier today, Furukawa confirmed that Nintendo is still planning on announcing its new system this fiscal year ending March 2025. No further details about the platform have been shared at this time.