Nintendo Switch update gives gamers a must-have feature that could save them $450
Ever since rumours and leaks started swirling around the Nintendo Switch 2, fans have been worried about how much it might cost.
Add to that Nintendo’s recent warning that stock will be limited at launch, possible hidden costs and fears over how Trump’s tariffs might push prices even higher, and it’s safe to say people are cautious.
But there's been some good news for the console's fans and their friends.
The gaming company announced a new update for the current Switch which preps it for the arrival of its successor which arrives on 5 June 2025. In the new Version 20.0.0, there will be a feature called Game Share that lets owners of the Switch 2 share compatible games locally with others, even if those people don’t own the game themselves. One such compatible game is Super Mario Party Jamboree, which can be shared across devices using a local wireless connection.
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"Use GameShare on your Nintendo Switch 2 to share compatible games with anyone who has a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2. That way, everyone can play the game, even if they don't own a copy," Nintendo announced on its website. "Only Nintendo Switch 2 consoles can share games, but any Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch can receive them when connected via local wireless connection. Nintendo Switch consoles can only receive games that are compatible with Nintendo Switch."
So, if you’ve got the Switch 2 and your friend is still using the original, you’ll still be able to play together using this feature. That said, Game Shares are temporary lends and will only work between members of the same Nintendo Account family group. Furthermore, the update also includes the Virtual Game Cards system, which lets you swap between digital games like you would with physical cartridges.
“You can virtually load and eject virtual game cards between up to two Nintendo Switch systems,” the tech giant confirmed in the release notes. “Virtual game cards can be lent to others in the same Nintendo Account family group.”
Version 20.0.0 is available to download now and can help players easily manage their digital library ahead of the Switch 2's release. In the meantime, places like GameStop are offering deals to give players a cheaper price on the upcoming console. If you trade in your Switch OLED and pre-order a Switch 2 at GameStop, you’ll get $175 in store credit toward the new console. Without an OLED model, a standard Switch can fetch $125 in credit, while a Switch Lite can grant you $100.