Pokemon Sword and Shield: Is there Nintendo Switch 2 Upgrade?

With improved graphics, faster performance, and a more immersive experience, the Nintendo Switch 2 has ushered in a new era of gaming, which Pokemon fans are loving. On the new hardware, many devoted gamers are returning to their favorite games.

It's reasonable to wonder if older games like Sword and Shield are getting the same treatment as new ones like Pokemon Scarlet and Violet and the upcoming Pokemon Legends Z-A, which is optimized for the Switch 2.

Can Pokemon Sword and Shield be played on Nintendo Switch 2?

Zacian - the face of the Sword version of these games (Image via TPC)

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What is Pokemon Sword and Shield's current state on the Nintendo Switch 2? The good news is that the game runs flawlessly and is completely compatible with the new console. Fans hoping for a performance or graphical improvement, however, might be let down.

The game does not fully utilize the Switch 2's upgraded hardware, even though it runs smoothly and has more noticeable enhanced colors.

Sword and Shield maintains its performance on the original Switch at 30 frames per second and 1080p, while more recent games support up to 4K resolution and run at 60 fps.

Also read: How to preorder Legends Z-A

Do Pokemon Sword and Shield have Nintendo Switch 2 Upgrade Packs?

Zamazenta - the face of the Shield version of these games (Image via TPC)

The "Upgrade Pack," a feature that Nintendo has unveiled, is intended to improve a few older Switch 2 games. By improving a game's performance to match the capabilities of the newer console, these optional add-ons offer smoother gameplay and higher visual fidelity.

These Upgrade Packs are downloadable content that can be used with both digital and physical versions of a supported game. The upgraded game and its Upgrade Pack are marketed together as "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition."

Regretfully, Sword and Shield does not currently have access to this type of Upgrade Pack. Fans will still be able to play the game on the new console, but it will be in its original format without the improved graphics or faster frame rate that the Switch 2 offers for more recent games.

Also read: Scarlet and Violet: All Nintendo Switch 2 features

In conclusion, Sword and Shield has not been updated for the new hardware, despite being fully playable on the Nintendo Switch 2. Until Nintendo releases specific Upgrade Packs in the future, the updates are currently only available for the more recent games in the franchise, leaving the older titles unaltered.

Also read: Legends Z-A Leaks: What do we know so far

About the author

Aashish is an esports and gaming writer at Sportskeeda, covering Pokemon, FC 24, and MMO. His educational background is in Mass Media and Music Production, but gaming always served as his favorite escape. Today, he has taken it up professionally.

A die-hard fan of the franchise, Aashish lives and breathes Pokemon. He has equal appreciation for single-player and multiplayer games. Nonetheless, if he had to recommend a game to a skeptic, it would be Guild Wars 2 due to its compelling storyline. However, if he were to go full throttle into the competitive side, Dota 2 would get his blood pumping.

Aashish prioritizes sourcing and reporting accurate, relevant, and ethical information. He relies heavily on official social media accounts to stay updated with what's going on. When not immersed in creating content, Aashish engages in music production and photography.

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🚨 Calculate how strong your evolved Pokémon will become with our newly launched Pokemon GO Evolution Calculator 🚨

Edited by Aashish Victor