Nintendo keeps Switch successor secret, but comments spark speculation

A Nintendo continues to keep its plans for a potential successor to its popular Switch console under wraps. However, recent comments from company executives have raised speculation about whether the new console will be compatible with existing Switch games. Switch.

Successor to the Nintendo Switch

Image: Antonio Manaligod/Reproduction

During a Q&A session with investors, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa stated that the company is constantly considering different specifications for future hardware, but declined to comment specifically on the matter at this time.

However, he mentioned that the company wants to make a smooth transition for its customers using their own Nintendo account.

This statement from Furukawa suggests that Nintendo may be planning to allow Switch owners to transfer their libraries from games for the new console. However, it is also possible that compatibility will be limited to a specific number of previous games.

The certainty about the Switch’s successor’s backwards compatibility will only come with an official announcement from Nintendo. However, Furukawa’s recent comments indicate that this is a possibility that the company is considering.

The incredible Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch, originally released in 2017, is a hybrid console that allows you to play games on your TV or in handheld mode. It is compatible with most games available for the Switch. In 2019, the Switch Lite was released, a smaller, handheld-only version of the console.

While compatible with most games, the Switch Lite does not support games that require the use of Joy-Con controllers.

In 2021, the OLED Switch was released, which features a larger OLED screen and improved speakers compared to the original version. Like the other versions, the OLED Switch is compatible with most Switch games.

If the Switch’s successor supports all three previous versions, that would be a huge draw for the new console. That’s because Switch owners would be able to continue enjoying their favorite games on the new device, making the transition easier.

However, it’s also possible that Nintendo will opt to only allow backwards compatibility with a limited number of older games. While this may disappoint some Switch owners, it would make it easier for the company to develop new games exclusive to the console’s successor.

It remains to be seen what Nintendo’s decision will be regarding backwards compatibility, but only an official announcement will provide a definitive answer.