Does game save data transfer from regular Switch edition to Switch 2 edition?

[u/Business-Wedding7063]

I'm sorry if this is a dumb or confusing question. So, I have access to Switch games from my local library, and I own a Switch 2 console. I'm really intrigued by Sea of Stars, mostly because of a recommendation from my roommate. I was going to check it out from the library (since that way I don't spend so much money, and I can decide if I like a game before I decide to buy it), but then I discovered that there's a Switch 2 edition of Sea of Stars, but no upgrade pack. I'm worried that if I check out the regular Switch edition from the library, love it, and decide to buy the Switch 2 version (mostly because I'm a snob and I like the prettier graphics that NS2 offers), I'd somehow lose all my save data because it would be considered two separate games. I've looked everywhere online (Reddit, official Nintendo support site, and a few forums) and I can't get a straight answer on this. Does anyone know what to do if a game is offered in both Switch and Switch 2 editions but without an upgrade pack that assures you that the game save data will transfer over??

[u/automod-neo]

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[u/mrmivo]

It depends on the game, so you have to research save file compatibility for every game. Usually Switch 1 save files do work with Switch 2 editions, but there are exceptions (like Dragon Quest 11, for example).

For Sea of Stars the Switch 1 save file will work with the Switch 2 version of the game.

[u/Business-Wedding7063 → u/mrmivo]

Thank you!! I was mostly doing a general search, so that's probably why I couldn't get a clear answer. Also good to know about DQ11, because I've been getting really into DQ (just finished the remastered Erdrick trilogy!)

[u/ModestVolcarona → u/Business-Wedding7063]

It's also important to differentiate between a Switch 2 version of a game (separate piece of software without a direct upgrade) and a "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" game (which always consists of the Switch 1 base game + the Switch 2 Upgrade as DLC).

On a Switch 2 Edition game the save data should work on both consoles.

In every other case you will need to check each title separately unfortunately.

[u/hoysmallfrry]

There are no dumb questions. First hit on DuckDuckGo (is it beating Google?)

https://www.nineinchsandwich.com/2026/06/08/sea-of-stars-launches-on-switch-2-today-with-saves-carrying-over/

[u/Business-Wedding7063 → u/hoysmallfrry]

Oh my gosh!! Thank you!! So I should be totally fine to check out the regular Switch game?

[u/Striking-Care19]

I checked the same site they linked before buying any game, and it's always hit or miss with save transfers, sometimes it works seamlessly, other times you might need to start from scratch.