The excitement for the Nintendo Switch 2's launch tomorrow is palpable, but a significant shadow has been cast for some fans. Nintendo has confirmed that over 100 existing Nintendo Switch games and applications will not be functional on the new hardware at launch, including widely used services like YouTube and high-profile games such as Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus and Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade.
The comprehensive list, quietly published by Nintendo earlier this week, details the titles experiencing "launchable compatibility issues" with the Switch 2. While the vast majority of the Switch's extensive library will run seamlessly – often with enhancements – this initial incompatibility list is larger than many anticipated and includes some surprising omissions.
Key Titles and Apps Affected:
YouTube: The absence of the ubiquitous video app at launch is arguably the most impactful for everyday users, removing a primary source of streaming video on the console.
- Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus (Bethesda): A major third-party AAA title known for pushing the original Switch's limits.
- Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade (Square Enix): Another graphically intensive third-party RPG.
- Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series (Square Enix): The classic collection bundle is listed as incompatible.
- Nintendo Switch Sports (Nintendo): Surprisingly, Nintendo's own recent sports title makes the list.
- Various Arcade Archives Titles (Hamster Corp): Several retro re-releases are affected.
- Several Licensed Games & Smaller Indies: A range of other titles, including Gal Gun, Rugby 20, Doraemon Story of Seasons, and numerous smaller indie games are also listed.
Nintendo has provided the full details in an official document:
Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Compatibility Issues List (PDF)
Why This Happens & What's Being Done
The reasons for incompatibility likely stem from the significant architectural changes under the Switch 2's hood. While designed for backward compatibility, some older software relies on specific hardware features, APIs, or security protocols that have been altered or deprecated in the new system. Ensuring compatibility often requires specific updates from the game or app's developer.
Nintendo stated in the document's introduction: "We are working with the relevant publishers to address launchable compatibility issues for some titles in the future. Please check back for updates." This suggests that patches could potentially restore functionality for some of these titles down the line.
Finding Compatible Games & Transferring Data
For users planning their Switch 2 setup, Nintendo has emphasized that the vast majority of games will work. They recommend checking their official compatibility guide before transferring data:
Nintendo Switch 2 Compatible Games & Transfer Guide:
https://www.nintendo.com/us/gaming-systems/switch-2/transfer-guide/compatible-games/
This resource helps users confirm if their favorite games will work and outlines the process for transferring users, save data, and downloaded games from an original Switch to the Switch 2.
The Takeaway for Launch Day
While the list of over 100 incompatible titles is a disappointment, especially for fans of Wolfenstein II, FF7 Remake Intergrade, or daily YouTube viewers, it represents only a small fraction of the Switch's total library. The confirmation underscores that backward compatibility, while highly successful overall for the Switch 2, isn't flawless for every single piece of legacy software. For those affected titles, the hope now rests with developers issuing compatibility patches in the weeks and months following launch. Gamers are advised to check the official lists before assuming their entire library will make the jump seamlessly on day one.
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