The recent announcement of theNintendo Switch 2shared new information on the console to get fans excited. Included in this were the reveal trailers for new games and system features, but what came unexpected to some were theNintendo Switch 2Edition upgrade packs for certain games.
As well as a select few of these games receiving new content exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 Editions, players should expect to see major improvements to all the games receiving upgrades to keep them in line with the Switch 2’s own game library. Some of the community can look forward to receiving twoZeldaupgrades bundled with theNintendo Switch 2 Online Expansion Pack. However, there are two otherThe Legend of Zeldagames for the original Switch being updated for the new console that could be seriously improved as a result.
Link’s Awakening and Echoes of Wisdom Will Receive Free Switch 2 Updates
Both Games Need the Performance Boost
A majority ofThe Legend of Zeldafans are likely to be excited about upgrades toBreath of the WildandTears of the Kingdom, especially for the additionalZelda Notes featureexpanding on the game’s lore, but the often overlookedLink’s AwakeningandEchoes of Wisdommay be more deserving.Link’s Awakeningremade the Game Boy original with a new toy-like aesthetic, making players feel like they were playing with a diorama.Echoes of Wisdommaintained this visual style, and with Zelda’s ability to place Echoes of objects with the Tri Rod, the world became a playful sandbox.
In spite of this distinct art style, many players were unable to fully appreciate it on the game’s original hardware. BothLink’s AwakeningandEchoes of Wisdomhad performance issues, making the game suffer overall. While still visually impressive, seeing both of these games struggling showed that the Switch simply isn’t capable of handling them. With the Switch 2’s reported hardware specifications, it’s likely that both of these titles will be able to be played as they were originally intended without the major drops in frame rate.
Link and Zelda’s Adventures Will Be Better Than Ever On Switch 2
Nintendo has confirmed that, alongside the paid Switch 2 Editions of some of its games, there will be somefree Switch 2 updatesfor original Switch games. Included on this list areThe Legend of Zelda: Link’s AwakeningandEchoes of Wisdom, confirming that the shortcomings of both of these games should be resolved on the new console. This is a major benefit to fans, allowing them to enjoy each title to their full capacity for free.
While players pointed out the flawed frame rates of these games to be the main issue, this isn’t all fans should look forward to with these upcoming updates. To many players, the unique visuals are one of the major selling points of both of these games, and by utilizing theSwitch 2’s 4K capabilities, the games will never have looked better. By removingLink’s AwakeningandEchoes of Wisdom’s performance issues and enhancing the graphics, the Switch 2 could be the best way to experience both of these stories.
This update is needed for both titles, but it may be more important forEchoes of Wisdom. ThoughLink’s Awakeningis a remake of a belovedZeldaclassic,Zelda being the protagonist inEchoes of Wisdommade the game stand out to fans as it is very rare for the titular princess to take the lead, particularly in a traditional mainline game in the series. By fixing the game’s issues and elevating its strong points,Echoes of Wisdommay finally get the justice it deserves with the Switch 2 update.
The Zelda Updates Have Major Implications for Other Upgrades
The Switch’s hardware did a disservice toLink’s AwakeningandEchoes of Wisdom, and with these free updates, the issues present with the original releases may finally be corrected. With Nintendogiving a second chance to theseZeldagames, it could indicate that free updates for other games will be added to the console in time.
SinceMetroid Prime 4: BeyondandPokemon Legends: Z-Aare both being treated to a Switch 2 Edition upgrade, it might make sense for Nintendo to update the previous games in the series for the Switch 2. ForMetroid Prime Remastered, fans would likely enjoy the 4K visuals and mouse controls present inPrime 4. As forPokemonfans, many found thatPokemon Legends: Arceushas performance issuessimilar toLink’s AwakeningandEchoes of Wisdom. The community would surely appreciate the opportunity to play bothPokemon Legendsgames fully optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2, free of frame rate drops and draw distance issues.
The Switch 2’s hardware specs are impressive, presenting the opportunity for more innovative games that players expect from Nintendo without feeling these restrictions. While some have expressed concern about how long this tech will last before showing its age, there might be no need to worry just yet;Donkey Kong Bananza’s performanceis reported to be able to reach 1080p at 60 FPS in handheld mode. If the Switch 2 can handle the fully destructible worlds that Donkey Kong will charge his way through, it is likely that it will be capable of handling much more than its predecessor.
Though there are dozens of Nintendo Switch games that deserve the full Nintendo Switch 2 Edition treatment – complete with performance tweaks and new features – the free updates provided toLink’s Awakening,Echoes of Wisdom, and a selection of other titles still offer more than players may have initially expected. Rather than just implementing backwards compatibility, these games have been carefully tuned to make use of the Switch 2’s improved hardware. The Switch 2 is already shaping up to be theidealZeldaconsolefor fans looking to play as much of the series in one place as possible, and with these updates, it could be the best way to play these titles too.
