The Nintendo eShop Summer Sale 2025 has officially kicked off, running from June 26th to July 10th. This highly anticipated event comes at the perfect time, especially for those who recently picked up the new Nintendo Switch 2, which debuted on June 5, 2025. Aimed primarily at digital titles, the sale presents a fantastic opportunity for both original Nintendo Switch owners and those diving into the Switch 2 to expand their game libraries—often at a fraction of the cost.
Key Takeaways:
- The Nintendo eShop Summer Sale 2025 runs from June 26th to July 10th.
- The sale includes major first-party Nintendo titles and numerous third-party games.
- Many original Switch games are compatible with the new Nintendo Switch 2 console, which launched on June 5, 2025.
- Several popular titles, like Super Mario Odyssey and Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury, have received free graphical and performance upgrades for Switch 2.
- The sale offers an opportunity for new Switch 2 owners to build their game libraries at reduced prices.
- The Nintendo Switch 2 features a larger OLED display, improved graphics, and 4K resolution when docked.
- Backward compatibility for Switch 1 games on the Switch 2 is extensive, with only a few exceptions.
A Summer Sale at the Perfect Time
As many gamers eagerly look to build their collections for the Switch 2, which launched with a price tag of $449.99, this sale couldn’t have come at a better time. The Switch 2 is a big leap forward for Nintendo, offering a more immersive experience with its upgraded hardware. The system features a larger OLED display, enhanced internal storage, and improved graphics, including 4K resolution when docked. Whether in handheld or tabletop mode, players can enjoy 1080p at a 120 Hz refresh rate, providing a significant boost in both visual quality and performance.
A Wealth of Titles on Offer
The Summer Sale brings discounts on a broad selection of both first-party and third-party games. Many of these games are not just compatible with the original Nintendo Switch but also benefit from enhanced performance on the Switch 2, thanks to its backward compatibility and, in some cases, free upgrades to visuals and frame rates.
Among the standout first-party titles on sale is Super Mario Odyssey, now available for $39.88, down from its regular $60 price. This beloved 3D platformer, known for its creative levels and engaging gameplay, has also received a graphical boost for the Switch 2, making it an even more attractive option for new owners of the console. Similarly, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is priced at $39.88 (originally $60) and also features enhanced visuals on the Switch 2, offering an even smoother and more vibrant experience.
Another notable game seeing a discount is Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD, now priced at $42. It’s the first time this spooky adventure starring Mario’s brother has been discounted, making it an exciting find for fans of the franchise. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is also discounted, now available for $48, down from its original $70 price tag. Other well-known titles on sale include Animal Crossing: New Horizons ($42 from $60), Mario Kart 8 Deluxe ($40 from $60), and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate ($44 from $60), all of which are essential for any Switch owner.
The sale also features popular third-party games at steep discounts. If you’re a fan of RPGs, Persona 5 Royal is now available for $21, down from $60. For those seeking action-packed experiences, Doom Eternal is a steal at just $10 (originally $40), while Dragon Ball FighterZ can be picked up for only $9.59, a big drop from $60. Other third-party titles like Monster Hunter Rise + Sunbreak ($19 from $69), It Takes Two ($20 from $40), and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2 Digital Deluxe Edition ($20 from $50) are also discounted, adding variety to the sale.
The Nintendo Switch 2: A Closer Look
The Nintendo Switch 2, released on June 5, 2025, offers several key improvements over its predecessor. Launched at a price of $449.99, it has already garnered praise for its technical advancements. The new system boasts a custom Nvidia T239 processor, which supports ray-tracing and HDR, providing detailed graphics and smoother gameplay. The larger OLED display and enhanced internal storage also add to the experience, while the ability to output in 4K when docked ensures that the Switch 2 is a substantial upgrade.
Backward Compatibility and Free Upgrades
One of the best features of the Switch 2 is its backward compatibility with nearly all Nintendo Switch games. This means that players who already own a large library of Switch games can transfer their digital collections seamlessly, without losing access to any of their previous purchases. In fact, many existing titles have received free upgrades to take full advantage of the new console’s capabilities, including improvements to visuals, frame rates, and even HDR support.
For example, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom and Link’s Awakening have both received visual enhancements and HDR support. Other games, like 51 Worldwide Games and Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain, have added support for GameShare, enabling up to four players to join in on the fun. This commitment to upgrading existing titles makes it even easier for new Switch 2 owners to jump into a superior version of the games they already know and love.
Maximize Your Savings
If you’re looking to get the most out of the Summer Sale, there are a few strategies to keep in mind. Regularly checking the Nintendo eShop for new additions to the sale can help you snag deals as they pop up. Creating a wishlist on the eShop is another good way to track games you want, so you’ll be notified when their prices drop.
The digital nature of the eShop sale offers added convenience, as you can immediately access your games with no need for physical storage. Plus, if you use gift cards, you might be able to further stretch your budget, especially when purchasing during special promotions.
A Golden Opportunity for Gamers
Overall, the Nintendo Summer Sale 2025 is an excellent opportunity to expand your game library, especially with the added perks for Switch 2 owners. Whether you’re picking up new titles, revisiting favorites with upgraded graphics, or simply saving on some top-rated games, now is the time to take advantage of the sale.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: When does the Nintendo Summer Sale 2025 end?
A1: The Nintendo Summer Sale 2025 concludes on July 10, 2025.
Q2: Are games purchased during the Summer Sale compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2?
A2: Yes, almost all games purchased during the Summer Sale that were originally released for the Nintendo Switch are fully compatible with the new Nintendo Switch 2 console due to its extensive backward compatibility. Many also benefit from free performance upgrades on the Switch 2.
Q3: What is the price of the Nintendo Switch 2?
A3: The Nintendo Switch 2 launched with a price of $449.99.
Q4: Can I transfer my digital game library from my original Nintendo Switch to the Switch 2?
A4: Yes, you can transfer your digital game library from your original Nintendo Switch to the Switch 2. Nintendo provides a system transfer process for this purpose.
Q5: What are some of the key improvements of the Nintendo Switch 2 over the original Switch?
A5: The Nintendo Switch 2 features a larger OLED display, enhanced internal storage, updated graphics with a custom Nvidia T239 processor supporting ray-tracing and HDR, and the ability to output 4K resolution when docked. It also introduces GameChat for online communication.
Q6: Are there any games that are not compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2?
A6: The Nintendo Switch 2 has near-complete backward compatibility. However, five streaming applications (AbemaTV, Crunchyroll, Hulu, InkyPen, Niconico) and the physical Nintendo Labo VR Kit are not compatible. Some older or obscure titles might also experience minor issues.
Q7: Will new Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games be released during the sale?
A7: While the sale primarily focuses on discounts for existing Switch and backward-compatible titles, new Switch 2 exclusive games like Mario Kart World launched with the console on June 5, 2025. Major first-party titles for 2025 like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A also released simultaneously as “Nintendo Switch 2 Edition” games with enhancements.
Q8: How does the Nintendo Summer Sale benefit owners of the new Switch 2 console?
A8: The sale allows Switch 2 owners to build their game collection at reduced prices, particularly important since the new console itself is an investment. Many discounted titles also receive free graphical and performance upgrades when played on the Switch 2, offering an improved experience.
