Ever since Nintendo officially unveiled the Switch 2, anticipation has been building for the upcoming April Direct, where we expect to learn the official release date, price, and game lineup for the new console. Surprisingly, Nintendo released another Direct just a week before this event, featuring major titles like Pokémon Legends Z-A and Metroid Prime 4. Given Nintendo's focus on backward compatibility, this move shouldn't be too shocking.

Before this week's Nintendo Direct, Nintendo set the stage by stating, "There will be no updates about Nintendo Switch 2 during the presentation." While this was technically true – the Switch 2 wasn't mentioned beyond a reminder about the upcoming Direct and the new Virtual Game Card sharing system – it's reasonable to assume that all the games showcased will be playable on the Switch 2. Officially, these games are slated for the original Switch, but the implication is clear.

It's a win-win situation for everyone involved. Those sticking with the original Switch still have plenty to look forward to as the console enters its eighth year, while those upgrading to the Switch 2 can enjoy an extensive back catalog of games right from the start.

Nintendo's commitment to backward compatibility is likely to facilitate one of the smoothest transitions between console generations we've seen. While everyone is eager to see what the Switch 2 can do and what new games it will bring, Nintendo's cautious approach with the hardware ensures that all bases are covered. The latest Nintendo Direct didn't seem focused on pushing Switch 2 pre-orders or convincing people to upgrade, which speaks to Nintendo's inclusive strategy. It's a message that everyone is welcome, whether you're planning to buy a Switch 2 at launch, upgrade later, or continue with your current Switch.

That's why it made sense to showcase a variety of Switch games just days before a dedicated Switch 2 Direct. Beneath the surface, Nintendo was laying the groundwork for the upcoming transition. For instance, the Virtual Game Card system, which allows Switch owners to link two consoles and share digital games, was introduced. This feature is particularly useful given the rise in digital game sales and is reminiscent of Steam's family sharing system. Announcing it at the end of the Switch's lifecycle, with the Switch 2 just weeks or months away, is likely intended to ease the transition to the new console.

Some have noted that the fine print for the Virtual Game Card system mentions a "Switch 2 Edition" for certain games. Whether this refers to exclusive enhancements for Switch 2 games that make them unshareable with the original Switch, exclusive re-releases that will only work on the Switch 2, or something else, remains unclear. However, just as Nintendo previously stated that "Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported or fully compatible with Switch 2," this fine print likely serves to cover Nintendo's bases regarding any potential unshareable games.

Overall, Nintendo's approach to the Switch 2 transition feels like a well-managed procession, similar to how Apple transitions between iPhone models. Upgrading isn't mandatory, but there are clear benefits to doing so, and you can bring your existing games along for the ride.