According to GameSpot, Nintendo just released version 21.0.1 for the Switch 2, addressing several specific technical issues that users had been reporting. The update fixes two error codes that occurred during local system transfers from Switch 1 to Switch 2 consoles. More notably, it resolves problems where wireless controllers and Bluetooth audio devices wouldn’t connect after waking the Switch 2 from sleep mode or turning off airplane mode. Several Reddit users had documented these Bluetooth issues, expressing relief that Nintendo finally patched them. The update also fixes backward compatibility for the Switch 1 version of Nier: Automata, which had been experiencing problems on the newer hardware. This continues Nintendo’s pattern of addressing Switch 1 game compatibility through Switch 2 firmware updates, following similar fixes for Batman: Arkham Knight and other titles in the recent 21.0.0 patch.
The Backward Compatibility Game
Here’s the thing about Nintendo’s approach to backward compatibility – it’s actually pretty clever when you think about it. Instead of trying to make every single Switch 1 game work perfectly on day one, they’re gradually fixing the most popular titles through firmware updates. This creates a steady stream of positive news cycles and makes it feel like the platform is constantly improving. Nier: Automata isn’t just any game – it’s considered one of the best titles of the previous generation, so fixing it now generates significant goodwill. And honestly, what better time than heading into the holiday season? It’s basically free marketing that makes the Switch 2 ecosystem look more robust without Nintendo having to develop new content.
Those Pesky Bluetooth Problems
The Bluetooth connectivity issues are interesting because they weren’t widely reported in mainstream tech press, but apparently enough users on Reddit threads were complaining that Nintendo took notice. This tells me their community monitoring is actually pretty effective. Imagine trying to use your fancy new Bluetooth headset with the Switch 2 only to find it won’t connect after sleep mode – that’s exactly the kind of friction that turns casual users into frustrated ones. The fact that they fixed it relatively quickly suggests Nintendo’s taking the “polish” aspect seriously. After all, seamless connectivity is table stakes for modern gaming hardware.
What’s Still Not Fixed
Now for the reality check – not everything got patched. The update doesn’t address the third-party dock compatibility issues that emerged after version 21.0.0, though to be fair, unofficial dock manufacturers are already rolling out their own fixes. And Borderlands 3 remains broken on Switch 2, which is kind of surprising given its popularity. But look, Nintendo’s clearly prioritizing based on user impact and probably technical complexity. Some of these fixes might require more extensive testing or even coordination with third-party developers. The gradual approach makes business sense, even if it’s frustrating for owners of specific broken games.
Perfect Holiday Timing
So why release these fixes now? The timing is no accident. With Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment and Kirby Air Riders just released, and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond capping off Nintendo’s first-party lineup for the year, they want the Switch 2 ecosystem to feel as polished as possible for holiday shoppers. Every fixed game, every resolved connectivity issue makes the platform more appealing. It’s the kind of subtle platform management that doesn’t get headlines but absolutely impacts consumer satisfaction. And let’s be real – when you’re competing in today’s gaming market, you need every advantage you can get.
