Nintendo Issues New Batch of Switch 1 Backwards Compatibility Fixes for Switch 2

2 October 2026
Nintendo Switch 2Nintendo Switch
6 min.
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Nintendo Issues New Batch of Switch 1 Backwards Compatibility Fixes for Switch 2

Summary:

NintendoReporters brings you a clear breakdown of the latest Switch 2 backwards compatibility fixes rolled out in September 2026. Nintendo has applied targeted patches that restore functionality for a number of original Switch titles on the Switch 2 hardware, with many fixes linked to system firmware version 23.0.0 released on September 10, 2026. This update includes a variety of smaller and larger titles – everything from classic remasters to recent eShop releases – while a handful of games still face progression-related issues and remain unsupported. The write-up explains what changed, highlights notable fixed and still-broken games, and walks through what you should do to update your console, check compatibility, and troubleshoot any problems. If you own a Switch 2 and want to know which of your Switch 1 games are now playable again, this is the breakdown you want.

Nintendo rolls out September 2026 Switch 1 compatibility fixes for Switch 2

Nintendo recently released a new batch of compatibility fixes that affect original Nintendo Switch titles running on the Nintendo Switch 2. This round focuses on addressing specific title-level issues that prevented proper gameplay on the newer hardware, restoring functionality for a range of games that fans have been reporting problems with. The fixes cover everything from small indie releases to better-known titles like Attack on Titan 2 and Go Vacation, and they are part of Nintendo’s ongoing maintenance effort to keep the Switch library playable as much as possible on Switch 2. For many players this means being able to jump back into a favorite game without waiting for a developer patch or resorting to older hardware. The list included in this update was published in mid-September 2026 and reflects Nintendo’s focus on smoothing out rough edges introduced by architectural differences between the two consoles.

Why firmware version 23.0.0 matters for compatibility

Version 23.0.0 of the system firmware, released on September 10, 2026, introduced several system-level improvements that also enable or support many compatibility fixes. That firmware added variable refresh rate support for docked mode, UI and system transfer improvements, and a series of stability tweaks that can affect how older Switch software runs on Switch 2. Because a lot of the compatibility updates depend on changes under the hood – for example how the system handles input, audio routing, memory management, or virtual game card licensing – applying the firmware update often unlocks the fixes Nintendo has deployed for specific titles. In short, if your Switch 2 hasn’t installed 23.0.0, you may not see the compatibility improvements, and you should update before testing any titles that were previously problematic.

Notable games fixed in this September batch and what to expect

The September compatibility list includes 22 games that are now reported as working on Switch 2 after the fixes were applied. Notable names on that list include Attack on Titan 2, a licensed action title with a loyal audience; Go Vacation, a family-friendly collection of minigames and open-world activities; and Ninja Five-O, a well-regarded action-platformer re-released on the eShop. Those fixes mean players can expect reduced crashes, smoother progression, or resolved audio or control problems depending on the title. Many smaller or niche games also made the cut, from visual novels to puzzle and indie releases that may not have received individual developer patches. If a title was previously crashing at a certain point, losing save data, or showing graphical glitches on Switch 2, it’s worth testing again after updating your system firmware and checking the official compatibility status.

Games still unsupported and known issue highlights

Despite the progress, Nintendo’s compatibility updates did not fix every problem. A small number of games remain unsupported due to game progression issues that can’t be safely patched from the system side alone. The currently listed unsupported games include Operation: Tango, Rain World, Slay the Princess – The Pristine Cut, Herdling, ILA: A Frosty Glide, and Lost Twins 2. These titles have specific in-game progression quirks that could cause players to become stuck or lose saves if played before a developer patch is available. Additionally, Nintendo warns that Colors Live can exhibit audio problems in some areas on Switch 2; this is listed as a separate, potential audio issue that may be addressed by a future compatibility fix. If you own any of the unsupported games, keep an eye on official status pages and developer announcements before attempting a full playthrough on Switch 2.

What this update means for Switch 2 owners right now

For owners of the Switch 2 the practical takeaway is straightforward: update your console, check your library, and test any games that were previously buggy. The fixes remove a lot of friction for players who thought certain Switch 1 games would never run correctly on the new hardware, and they keep the Switch library alive without requiring developers to release a separate Switch 2 edition. That said, not every problem can be solved from Nintendo’s end, and some issues still need game-specific patches from publishers. If you want to replay an old favorite or revisit a recent purchase, these compatibility fixes increase the odds it will work as intended. Remember that some titles might still need an internal update or have additional settings you need to toggle, so always check the official compatibility lookup and follow the steps to update both system firmware and any available game patches.

How to check compatibility and install the firmware update

Checking whether a specific title is supported is the safest way to proceed. Nintendo maintains an official compatibility lookup where you can search by game to see current status. To benefit from September’s fixes, make sure your Switch 2 is running system firmware 23.0.0 or later; this version was released on September 10, 2026 and includes the underlying changes that enabled many of the title-specific fixes. To update, connect your Switch 2 to the internet, go to System Settings, scroll to System, and select System Update to download and install. After the firmware finishes, power-cycle the console for good measure. Then, launch the game in question; if it still misbehaves, check for a game update in the eShop or the Options menu, and consult the official compatibility listing on Nintendo’s support site to confirm whether the title is listed as fixed or still unsupported.

Troubleshooting tips if issues persist after updating

If you’ve updated to 23.0.0 and the offending title still has problems, there are a handful of quick checks that often fix residual issues. First, confirm the game itself is fully updated – many eShop and cartridge titles receive small patches that improve compatibility. If problems persist, clear the system cache and rebuild any local data by powering down and removing the microSD card briefly, then restarting; always back up saves if possible. Try launching the game with no other accessories attached and disconnect any Bluetooth devices to rule out input glitches. If crashes or progression bugs continue, report the issue through Nintendo’s support channels and the game’s publisher; providing save information, exact error behavior, and timestamps helps developers reproduce and fix the problem. Finally, consider temporarily running the game on an original Switch if you need to finish a critical save while waiting for a definitive fix on Switch 2.

Nintendo’s ongoing compatibility approach and community impact

Nintendo’s method of shipping title-specific compatibility fixes combined with system firmware updates is balancing act – it keeps the massive Switch library playable on next-gen hardware without mandating that every developer ship a new native version. For many fans this is good news; it means your existing purchases can keep working and your backlog won’t evaporate. At the same time, some game-specific problems need patches from the original developers, which adds variability in timing. The community benefits because NintendoReporters and other outlets can compile status lists that help players decide whether to dive into a title on Switch 2 or wait. This process fosters communication between Nintendo, developers, and players and highlights why keeping an eye on compatibility updates is now a normal part of Switch 2 ownership.

Conclusion

September’s compatibility fixes are another reminder that the Switch ecosystem is still evolving on Switch 2. Nintendo has restored playability for a healthy batch of Switch 1 titles, tied largely to the 23.0.0 firmware changes released on September 10, 2026. While a few games still show progression or audio issues and remain unsupported, the overall trend is positive: more of the original Switch library is becoming stable on new hardware, and players have clear steps to follow to update and verify their games. Keep your Switch 2 firmware current, check the official compatibility look-up if you’re unsure about a specific title, and report issues when they crop up so the community and developers can prioritize fixes.

FAQs
  • How do I know if a specific Switch game works on Switch 2?
    • Check Nintendo’s official compatibility lookup and look for the game in the September 2026 update list; if it’s listed as fixed, test it after installing firmware 23.0.0.
  • Do I need firmware 23.0.0 to get these compatibility fixes?
    • Yes, many of the fixes rely on system changes introduced in version 23.0.0, released on September 10, 2026, so install that update first.
  • What should I do if a game still crashes after updating?
    • Ensure the game is updated, restart your console, try without accessories, back up saves, and contact Nintendo support or the game publisher if the problem continues.
  • Are there any titles that remain unsupported?
    • Yes. As of the September 2026 list, titles like Operation: Tango, Rain World, Slay the Princess – The Pristine Cut, and others are still unsupported due to progression issues.
  • Where can I read more about Switch 2 firmware and compatibility updates?
    • Visit Nintendo’s Switch 2 support and news pages and follow updates from NintendoReporters for summarized lists and practical advice.
Sources
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