By Alright… what’s going on?
- by Jim Norman
Just when we believed we were gaining clarity on which titles would be included on Switch 2 cartridges, the publisher Marvelous drops yet another unexpected update (shout out to @Wario64 for the tip).
In a newly released FAQ concerning the forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2 version of Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, Marvelous began to clarify what the physical game copy actually consists of. As stated, the red Switch 2 cartridge includes the complete Switch 1 game along with the Switch 2 Upgrade Pack, and can be utilized on either console.
The publisher explains that downloading the full game isn’t necessary for it to function on Switch 2. Instead, “the appropriate version will launch automatically” once the cartridge is inserted into your console. Interesting!
Here’s the full statement from Marvelous:
The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is a red 64GB game card that contains, in its entirety, the Nintendo Switch game and the Upgrade Pack.
No need to download the full game: just place the card into either a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 console, and the right version will initiate automatically.
As with many contemporary titles, there might be minor updates or patches available at launch to offer small corrections and enhancements, but be assured: the entire game is included on the game card, ready for play from day one.
The Switch 2 edition of Guardians of Azuma features enhanced resolution graphics and improved frame rate compared to the Switch 1 version, and mouse support is also included. Apart from the physical edition, you can obtain a Switch 2 upgrade pack for the base game for £10 / €10 / $15.
Consequently, it seems that red Switch 2 cartridges are compatible with the Switch 1 console. We anticipate that much of this will depend on the decisions made by publishers in the upcoming years, but wow, this is already a lot to process.
In related updates, EA disclosed earlier this week that Split Fiction‘s Friend Pass will enable you to team up in the upcoming Switch 2 co-op adventure with a friend on Switch 1.
What’s your take on the Rune Factory Switch 2 Edition cartridge functioning on Switch 1? Share your thoughts in the comments.
[source marvelousgames.com, via bsky.app]
Jim joined Nintendo Life in 2022 and, notwithstanding his firm belief that The Minish Cap is the finest Zelda game and his steadfast admiration for the Star Wars prequels (indeed, it’s true), he has consistently contributed news and features on the site ever since.