Nintendo Switch 2 can download updates for installed games automatically when it is online and Software Auto-Updates is enabled. You can also check for an update on an individual game. Whether a specific update is needed—and what it changes—depends on that game; Nintendo’s general instructions do not say every update is mandatory.
What a game update changes
A game update applies to a particular title. It may include fixes, balance changes, new content, or compatibility changes, but the details vary by game. Nintendo’s update instructions explain how to download software updates; they are not a complete catalogue of individual games’ patch notes. For the exact changes in a patch, check the game publisher’s official update notes.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Mario Kart™ World (Nintendo Switch 2) | $79.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Star Fox™ - Nintendo Switch 2 | $59.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Donkey Kong Bananza (Nintendo Switch 2) | $69.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Pokémon Pokopia - Nintendo Switch 2 | $69.00 | Buy on Amazon |
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Some original Nintendo Switch games also offer free updates or paid upgrades that add content or improve performance on Switch 2. This is title-specific, not a benefit available for every Switch game. Check the game’s official page for availability and any price.
Do you need to download an update?
Nintendo says that when an update is available and the console is online, you may be prompted to download it when you start the game or application. That prompt does not mean every update is required in every situation. Whether a particular patch is necessary—for example, for a particular feature or online play—depends on the game and its publisher. Check that title’s official update notes if you need a definite answer.
#1 Best Overall
- Race from one course to another through interconnected paths that span the world
- Traverse mountains, forests, cities, and more—with shifting weather patterns and a day/night cycle
- Ride on rails, jump off walls, skim across water, and more as you race for the finish line
- Take on the adrenaline-packed Knockout Tour—a fierce 24-driver elimination mode
- Explore courses at your own pace and wander the world to discover fun surprises in Free Roam
How to download Switch 2 game updates
Turn on automatic updates
- Connect the console to the internet.
- From HOME, open System Settings > System > Software Auto-Updates.
- Turn on Software Auto-Updates. Nintendo says updates for installed software download automatically while the console is connected to the internet.
Check one game manually
- Connect the console to the internet.
- On HOME, highlight the game’s icon without launching it.
- Press + or −, then choose Software Update > Over the Internet.
These automatic and manual download instructions are from Nintendo Support.
Game updates and system updates are different
| Update type | What it applies to | Where to find details |
|---|---|---|
| Game software update | One game or application; changes depend on the title. | The game publisher’s official update notes. |
| Nintendo Switch 2 system update | The console’s software, such as system features, settings, or stability. | Nintendo’s system update history. |
Nintendo’s system update history lists version 23.0.0, released September 9, 2026. Its listed changes include GameChat, virtual game card settings, VRR support in TV mode when supported by the software and television, and general stability improvements. Those are console-level release notes; they do not establish that a particular game changed.
Rank #2
- Blast off on a high-octane adventure to save a star system from invasion
- Tear through space, soar across planets, and shoot loads of foes out of the sky at every step of the way
- A cinematic take on the Star Fox 64 story, featuring fully voiced dialogue, an epic orchestral soundtrack, and a complete visual overhaul for the Nintendo Switch 2 system
- Enter first-person mode to experience the action from inside the cockpit, and even use mouse controls to fly
- Invite a second player* to join you as a gunner using Nintendo Switch 2 mouse controls
Is a microSD Express card required for updates?
No. A storage card is optional, not a requirement for downloading a game update. Nintendo says Switch 2 is designed for microSD Express cards and requires system version 20.1.0 to use one. See Nintendo’s microSD Express compatibility information if you are considering storage expansion.
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Rank #4
- Shape the world and build a cozy new life with Pokémon as a Ditto transformed to look like a human.
- Use other Pokémon’s moves, like Bulbasaur’s Leafage, to revitalize and navigate the world around you.
- Meet and befriend more Pokémon as you help nature flourish.
- Gather materials to create items and furniture, till the fields to grow delicious crops, build homes for the Pokémon you meet, and more—there’s so much to do!
- Experience a world with varied weather, real-time days and nights, and other surprises.
Rank #3
- Explore a vast underground world—by smashing your way through it!
- A brand-new 3D platforming action adventure starring Donkey Kong and Pauline
- Bash through just about anything in groundbreaking exploration! Crash through walls and carve tunnels—the more you smash, the more areas open up to you
- Pair up with Pauline to use Bananza Transformations: smash through obstacles with the raw strength of Kong form, gallop with incredible speed as a Zebra, and more
- Team up with a friend in two-player co-op as Donkey Kong and Pauline! Blast foes and terrain alike with Pauline’s voice as you explore together
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
