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. However, the unexpected announcement of another Nintendo Direct just a week before the April event, featuring major titles like Pokémon Legends Z-A and Metroid Prime 4, caught many by surprise. Yet, considering Nintendo's commitment to backward compatibility, perhaps we shouldn't be too shocked.

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 technically accurate—no direct mentions of the Switch 2 were made beyond a reminder about the upcoming Direct and the introduction of the new Virtual Game Card sharing system—it's reasonable to infer that all the games showcased will be compatible with the Switch 2. Officially, these games are slated for release on the original Switch, but the implications are clear.

This approach is a win-win for everyone. Fans of the original Switch have plenty to look forward to as the console enters its eighth year, while those planning to upgrade to the Switch 2 can rest assured that they'll have access to an extensive library of games right from the start.

Nintendo's dedication to backward compatibility is paving the way for what could be one of the smoothest transitions between console generations we've ever seen. While excitement builds for what the Switch 2 can offer and the new games on the horizon, Nintendo's cautious approach with the hardware ensures that all bases are covered. The recent Nintendo Direct didn't feel like a push to boost Switch 2 pre-orders or convince people to upgrade immediately. Instead, it showcased an inclusive strategy, welcoming everyone—whether you're planning to buy a Switch 2 at launch, upgrade later, or stick with your current Switch.

This inclusive approach explains why Nintendo felt comfortable showcasing a plethora of Switch games just days before a dedicated Switch 2 Direct. Beneath the surface, Nintendo was laying the groundwork for the upcoming transition, particularly with the introduction of the Virtual Game Card system. This feature allows Switch owners to link two consoles and share digital games, a move that's especially relevant as digital game sales continue to rise. It's reminiscent of Steam's family sharing system. But why introduce it at the end of the Switch's lifecycle, with the Switch 2 just weeks or months away? The answer likely lies in smoothing 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. This could imply exclusive enhancements for the Switch 2 that make these games unshareable with the original Switch, or perhaps exclusive re-releases that will only work on the Switch 2. The details remain unclear, but similar to Nintendo's earlier statement that "Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported or fully compatible with Switch 2," this fine print likely serves as a safeguard for any potential incompatibilities.

Regardless of what the fine print entails, Nintendo's approach to the Switch 2 transition feels like a well-orchestrated procession, akin to Apple's iPhone upgrades. You don't have to upgrade, but there are clear benefits if you do, and you can bring your existing games along for the journey.