Nintendo Fixes Switch Games for Switch 2 in New Update

Nintendo released a system update for the Switch 2 on January 12 that fixes crashes in Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl. The update also improves support for other Switch games on the new console, which launched last year and plays most original Switch titles through backward compatibility.

Background

The Nintendo Switch 2 builds on the original Switch design. It works as both a handheld and a home console, like its predecessor. Nintendo promised from the start that owners could play their old Switch games on the new machine. But not every game worked perfectly right away. Some titles had issues like crashes or missing features because of differences in the hardware.

Nintendo set up a compatibility page where people can check if their games work on Switch 2. The page lists games that run fine, ones with problems, and those needing old Joy-Con controllers. Over time, Nintendo has tested more games and released fixes. This latest update is the first for Switch 2 in 2026. It came out just two days ago, and it matches an update for the original Switch too.

The original Switch came out in 2017. It sold over 140 million units. Switch 2 arrived in late 2025, carrying forward that library. Games like Pokémon Scarlet and Super Mario titles already got free upgrades for better visuals and frame rates on the new system. But Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, released in 2021, had random crashes on Switch 2 until now.

Key Details

The update is version 21.2.0. Nintendo says it brings general system stability improvements. That simple note covers fixes for game compatibility. Players reported that Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl would crash now and then on Switch 2. After the update, both games are listed as fully compatible on Nintendo's site.

Another game fixed is Cats on Duty. It mixes real-time strategy, tower defense, and match-3 gameplay. That title now works without issues on Switch 2.

Known Issues Still Out There

Not everything is perfect yet. Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe has audio problems in some parts of the game on Switch 2. Nintendo knows about it and plans a fix soon. The compatibility page still flags a few other titles with partial problems.

Some games need the original Switch Joy-Con controllers. Switch 2 comes with Joy-Con 2, which lack features like the IR Motion Camera. Titles such as 1-2-Switch, Nintendo Switch Sports, and WarioWare: Move It! require the old Joy-Con (R) for full play. Ring Fit Adventure needs original Joy-Con for its accessories. Nintendo Labo kits have limits too, since the Switch 2 body does not fit in some Toy-Con pieces.

The update rolled out automatically for most users. If not, people can check in system settings under System Update. Nintendo also updated Nintendo Music with a Mario & Luigi: Brothership album. Last week, they added Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance to the GameCube library on Nintendo Classics.

"General system stability improvements to enhance the user's experience." – Nintendo official patch notes

What This Means

These fixes make Switch 2 more appealing for owners of original Switch games. People who bought Pokémon Brilliant Diamond or Shining Pearl can now play them reliably on the new hardware. It shows Nintendo's commitment to backward compatibility, a big selling point for the console.

More updates are coming. Animal Crossing: New Horizons gets a free update tomorrow, January 15. It adds a resort hotel, more storage, and new Slumber Islands. There's also a Switch 2 Edition with mouse controls for Joy-Con 2, up to 11 friends on an island, and 4K resolution. Splatoon 3 has an update later this month.

January looks busy for Switch 2. New releases include The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon on January 15. FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE follows on January 22. DRAGON QUEST VII is also on the way. Other games like ARMS, Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain, and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe already have Switch 2 upgrades from last year, with better visuals and frame rates.

Pokémon Scarlet got an update too, for smoother play. Super Mario Galaxy 1 and 2 support Joy-Con 2 mouse controls. Nintendo keeps testing and updating the library. The compatibility page will show more green lights as time goes on.

Switch 2 owners get a growing list of playable games. Each update reduces reasons to keep the old console around. Nintendo aims to blend the old library with new titles seamlessly. Players can expect stability to keep improving through 2026.