A System Update That Changes Everything: Firmware 22.0.0

Just this week, Nintendo dropped one of the most impactful Switch 2 updates since launch. The headline feature is Handheld Boost Mode — a new setting that allows original Switch games running on the Switch 2 to operate as if they were in TV/docked mode, even while you're playing in handheld. This effectively boosts the resolution of Switch 1 games from 720p all the way up to 1080p while you're on the go. 

While the Switch 2 has a 1080p built-in display, Switch 1 games had been running at 720p in handheld mode up until now — because the original Switch only had a 720p screen. Handheld Boost Mode overrides this legacy limitation to bring older games up to full 1080p in handheld.

The update brought more quality-of-life improvements too. GameChat received significant improvements, including the ability to invite friends who haven't finished the initial setup, as well as better quality for shared game screens when expanded. Players can now also rewind or fast-forward 10 seconds with the ZL and ZR buttons when watching videos in the eShop, and Text-to-Speech can now read Album text and first-time setup menus.

The Games: March 2026 Is Absolutely Stacked

If you own a Switch 2, March has been an extraordinary month. The eShop charts tell the story perfectly — Pokémon Pokopia holds the number one spot, battling hard against Monster Hunter Stories 3, which occupies multiple positions in the top 5. Mario Kart World sits comfortably at number 3, while Resident Evil Requiem, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Kirby Air Riders round out a jaw-dropping top 20. 

Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake is also making waves this month — players take on the roles of twin sisters Mio and Mayu, uncovering the mysteries of a cursed village and fending off vengeful spirits using only the Camera Obscura as a weapon. 

And later this month, Super Mario Bros. Wonder — Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park arrives on March 26, bringing new co-op and competitive gameplay alongside Switch 2 enhancements to the beloved Flower Kingdom. 

Pokémon Pokopia: The Coziest Game of the Year?

One of the breakout hits of 2026 so far is undoubtedly Pokémon Pokopia. Players take on the role of a Ditto — transformed to look like a human — trying to restore a withered world using transformation skills and new crafting abilities, all while befriending Pokémon along the way. It's part life simulator, part creative sandbox, and it has captured the hearts of millions since launch.

What's Coming Next: A Ridiculous Rest of the Year

The Nintendo Switch 2 lineup for the rest of 2026 includes Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Switch 2 Edition with 4K resolution and Joy-Con 2 mouse controls; Indiana Jones and the Great Circle; Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade; Dragon Quest VII Reimagined; Mario Tennis Fever; and the spine-chilling Resident Evil Requiem, which will even launch alongside a themed Switch 2 Pro Controller. 

On the spy front, 007 First Light — an origin story following a young James Bond through MI6's training program — is now confirmed for a May 27th release after a brief delay.

Nintendo at PAX East 2026

Nintendo is taking the party on the road this week. From March 26 to 29, Nintendo is bringing hands-on Switch 2 experiences to Boston's PAX East convention, including Super Mario Bros. Wonder — Switch 2 Edition and Pokémon Pokopia, where fans can play in-person and even earn My Nintendo Platinum Points by checking in at the Nintendo desk. 

The eShop Gets a Treat Too

Even if you're on a budget, this month has something for you. A Square Enix sale running until March 30 is discounting 28 Nintendo Switch games on the eShop, including highlights like Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster and the Dragon Quest HD-2D Erdrick Trilogy Collection. 

Conclusion

Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026 is a phenomenon. With a firmware update that makes older games look better than ever, an eShop dominated by beloved franchises, and a release calendar that stretches all the way to the end of the year with no signs of slowing down, Nintendo has once again proven that you don't need the most powerful hardware to win hearts.

Pick it up, dock it, or take it anywhere — the Switch 2 is simply unmatched.