Nintendo Switch 2: Firmware update 20.1.5 Available
Nintendo has released a new firmware update for the Switch 2 and the original model. Version 20.1.5 officially brings stability improvements, but Datamin reports of secret improvements in the downward compatibility of switch games.
Stability and compatibility improved
The Nintendo Switch 2 and its predecessor are now receiving new firmware. The update with version number 20.1.5 lifts both consoles to the same software and according to official information contains “general stability improvements to optimize the user experience”. While the official patch notes are kept very tight as usual, reports indicate that the update offers more than just stability improvements.
The well-known Dataminer and Nintendo tracker Oatmaldome confirms that this firmware version has not been published for both consoles for nothing and indicates that it brings improvements to the execution of certain older games on the switch-2 system. Reading tip: Tips and tricks that every Switch 2 user know should be available in stores, the Nintendo Switch 2 is now available.
The update follows version 20.1.1, which was published in early June and also contained minor error loans. It is already the fifth system update for the Nintendo Switch since the end of April, with previous updates fixed or specific errors implemented or specific errors.
Improvements for older games
In addition to the system update, selected titles have received patches from the original Nintendo Switch library, which are intended to fix compatibility problems. For example, Pikmin 3 Deluxe was updated to version 1.1.3 to remove a screen flickering that occurred on Switch 2 during the game. Nintendo has announced that a corresponding correction for the demo version of the game will also be provided in the future.
Despite these updates, not all compatibility problems have so far been completely solved. Oatmaldome reported that many problematic games run better after the update, but some titles like Portal 2 continue to crash. According to his contribution, there is indications that a separate update for portal 2 could be required to fully fix this special problem.
Background for downward compatibility
At the beginning of the year, Nintendo calmed down its users by communicating that almost the entire Nintendo Switch game library on the Nintendo Switch 2 would be playable. This promise was crucial for many buyers who wanted to continue to use their extensive game collection. However, over 100 titles with various problems were reported during the first compatibility tests – from smaller graphic errors to complete system crashes. The challenge of downward compatibility is a well -known problem in consoles.
While the Switch 2 is based on similar hardware as their predecessor, differences in processor performance, the RAM and the graphics unit lead to unforeseen problems. The current update takes on the problem again. Players with compatibility problems should install the latest firmware and try out problematic titles again. Improvements may be noticeable, even if they are not officially documented in Nintendo’s compatibility lists.
