Switch 2 Handheld Mode Boost is a Game Changer for Backwards Compatibility

Nintendo, Switch 2

The ability to bring game libraries forward with new generations has become one of the most important features of modern console gaming. The arrival of the Switch 2 brought controversial ‘Switch 2 Edition’ of games which have often been expensive upgrades with little more than quality-of-life changes.

The Switch 2 did however launch with the ability to offer small performance upgrades to Switch 1 games, underutilising the power of the new hardware. Though, many Switch 2 owners have been calling for the full power of the console to be unlocked, to enable true performance upgrades for last-gen games.

Now, Nintendo have answered their prayers with the new 22.0.0 update which introduces the game changing Handheld Mode Boost.

Handheld Mode Boost enables Switch 1 games to run at docked quality when played in handheld mode on Switch 2 hardware. It’s a huge upgrade that frankly the console needed. YouTuber Blunty has released an early testing video which showcases some of the upgrades you can expect. Many more comparisons are appearing on social media as the patch rolls out worldwide.

Handheld Mode Boost can be enabled in your Switch 2 settings, under the Settings subcategory. Nintendo note a few caveats of the upgrade. These include the understandable reduction in battery life as your Switch 2 will be working harder:

Eurogamer have reported that some games appear blocked from the update – seemingly tied to the respective games control schemes being different between handheld and docked modes. Games include Super Mario Maker 2, Pokémon Lets Go, Super Mario 3D All-Stars and The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD.

Whilst Switch 2 clearly has some power, there have been issues with porting games to the hardware including Borderlands 4 which is currently on an indefinite delay. Meanwhile, Baldur’s Gate 3 is also not coming to Switch 2.

Switch 22.0.0 Update

Switch hardware update 22.0.0 also introduces a few other system updates, with the key features including:

Changed the on-screen text and animations when you load a virtual game card in the HOME Menu.
Added the ability to save notes about friends on your Friend List. The note content is not displayed to friends.
- Added the ability to see and edit these notes from the Nintendo Switch App. The app must be on version 3.3.0 or higher to use this feature.
Added the ability to see a notification in the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls smart device application when the Parental Controls PIN is input successfully on the console. This can also be set up to be a push notification to your smart device.
- The app must be on version 2.4.0 or higher to use this functionality.
General system stability improvements to enhance the user’s experience.

You can read the full patch notes here.

What games are you excited to try in Handheld Mode Boost? Have you tried any already? Let us know in the comments below. Also consider joining the friendly and active Gamer Social Club Discord to chat about all your favourite Switch 2 games.