The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is just around the corner. If you’ve successfully secured a preorder for this highly awaited sequel, you can dive into exciting new titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza starting June 5.

To prepare for this upcoming release, Nintendo has unveiled a significant software update for its current range of Switch devices, which includes the original Switch, the OLED model, and the Switch Lite. Known as version 20.0.0, this update typically indicates a notable shift, as major version numbers often signal substantial enhancements.

While version 20.0.0 isn’t a transformative overhaul—certainly not akin to Nintendo’s iOS 19—it brings several noteworthy changes and functionalities. Most prominently, it lays crucial groundwork for the Switch 2, especially for users migrating from existing consoles.

Introducing Virtual Game Cards and Game Sharing

This update features significant enhancements in accessing and enjoying digital titles. First up are Nintendo’s innovative virtual game cards, revealed earlier this month. These virtual cards provide a new method to play digital purchases across multiple Switch systems, similar to how physical game cards can be transferred.

A new “Virtual Game Card” icon will now appear in the Switch Home menu, allowing users to manage their virtual cards seamlessly. Additionally, this update introduces “Online License Settings,” granting the ability to play downloaded games or downloadable content while connected to the internet, with or without the virtual card loaded.

Moreover, these virtual game cards can be lent to family members for a duration of two weeks, provided they are part of the same Nintendo Account family group. Retrieval is possible anytime as long as the recipient’s Switch is online; otherwise, the two-week term must elapse before reclaiming.

On the subject of sharing, version 20.0.0 brings a feature known as GameShare, exclusive to the Switch 2. This allows users to share specific software titles between two Switch 2 consoles within the same local wireless network, a functionality not available for original Switch models.

Preparation for Switch 2

With the new update in place, a critical feature has been added under System Settings > System: System Transfer to Nintendo Switch 2. This is essential for anyone planning to upgrade to the Switch 2, facilitating the migration of data from an existing device to the new system. Should you sell or trade your old Switch before acquiring the Switch 2, this feature allows for data upload to a Nintendo server, enabling future downloads onto your new console. Note that opting for this will reset your original Switch to factory settings, so careful consideration is advised before proceeding.

The system allows for the selection of multiple save data files for transfer, accessible through the “Transfer Your Save Data” menu.

Additional Changes in Version 20.0.0

For those managing a child’s Switch, a new feature now permits the protection of access to the Virtual Game Card menu via a PIN or Nintendo Account login, found under User > User Settings.

The Nintendo eShop and the Nintendo Switch News icons have undergone a color change, along with some user icons, although specific details were not disclosed in the update’s release notes.