The latest free Switch 2 update makes Switch 1 games play incredible on handheld — These are the 12 games I've tried, tested, and recommend

All Nintendo Switch 2 owners got a surprise upgrade this week with the launch of "Handheld Mode Boost," which allows games from the original Switch to play in Switch 2 handheld mode as if they were being played on a TV.

This new Handheld Mode Boost means that you get higher fidelity, better framerates, and overall a more enjoyable experience on lots of Switch games that haven't yet been optimized for Switch 2.

Over the last few days, I've been trying out my back catalog of Switch games and chosen some of the games that have gotten the biggest upgrade from the new Handheld Mode Boost.

As a huge Pokémon fan, I've found the upgrade to games like Legends: Arceus and Sword to be the real winners here, but honestly, any of these games on this list are excellent, and some like Xenoblade Chronicles X actually perform better in Handheld Mode Boost than with the dedicated Switch 2 upgrade.

Just remember, you'll need to turn on Boost Mode on Switch 2, so read on to find out how.

How to turn on Handheld Mode Boost on Nintendo Switch 2

1. Open System Settings
2. Select System and then System Update
3. Update to v22.0.0
4. Go back to System Settings, then System
5. Select Nintendo Switch Software Handling
6. Enable Handheld Mode Boost

Nintendo's disclaimer for this new mode reads:

"When enabled, this option causes the performance of Nintendo Switch software while undocked to run as if it were being played in TV mode. While this can result in improved visuals, it may also increase the system's power consumption.

The effect of Handheld Mode Boost will vary based on the software. Some Nintendo Switch software will be unaffected, and this option has no effect on software for Nintendo Switch 2.

Because this option forces TV mode operation, some instructions may be incorrect or fail to operate correctly.

Handheld Mode Boost may prevent Nintendo Switch software from using the system's touch screen, and will cause attached Joy-Con 2 controllers to be treated as a Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller.

To use other controllers, first detach the Joy-Con 2 controllers from the console."

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