Switch 2 games run on original Nintendo Switch via exploit

Hackers compromise Nintendo Switch 2 using artificial intelligence tools

Following the PlayStation 5, the Nintendo Switch 2 was launched in June 2025 and has now been compromised by hackers utilizing artificial intelligence tools such as vibration coding, enabling advanced models to operate as developers and accomplish tasks in a fraction of the time. Security Sammy Hajhamid publicly pointed out a vulnerability and its exploitation possibilities last week without intending to break the console’s protection. Another game found compatible with the Switch 2 jailbreak is Nora to Oujo to Noraneko Heart 2, as reported by Light_88_ on October 22, 2026. Beyond running games, the Switch 2 can function as a computer, opening up possibilities for game modding, and potentially evolving into a device that runs Steam in the future.

The developer, identified on X as @touhoufagyuri, shared footage demonstrating that games like Mario Kart World and Pokémon Pokopia can function on the 2017 hardware. While the ports are not intended for public release due to legal concerns, they demonstrate the technical capabilities of the recent Switch 2 exploit.

Technical hurdles in the Switch 2 to Switch 1 porting process

Achieving playable performance required extensive hardware tuning and software optimization. For Mario Kart World, a developer utilized a tuned Switch with pre-made shaders, forced Level of Detail (LOD), and lower resolutions to achieve a playable state.

The Pokémon Pokopia port required even more aggressive measures. A fejlesztőnek egy tuningolt Switch-et kellett használnia, és 720p-re kellett csökkentenie a felbontást, mivel a játék 1080p-ben és túlhajtással 10–15 FPS-t ért el. By capping the frame rate at 30 FPS, the developer managed to mitigate significant fluctuations that occurred at 35 FPS.

Did you know?

The YouTube application is currently running on the Switch 2 via a lightweight, open-source project called VacuumTube, which was originally designed for YouTube on TV devices.

Expanding capabilities through the Switch 2 jailbreak

The jailbreak has opened several avenues for homebrew development beyond simple game ports. A felhasználó sikerrel futtatta a YouTube-ot a készüléken a VacuumTube nyílt forráskódú projekt alapján, amelyet a Brainfuck programozási nyelv használatával írtak.

Other reported developments include the ability to run Splatoon Raiders via Switch 2 emulation, though reports from MakoCW indicate the game currently suffers from heavy lag and lacks Vsync. Additionally, Will Faust reported that Mario Kart World has been made playable on an iPhone 18 Pro using a private nxnative fork.

Switch 2 games run on original Nintendo Switch via exploit
Photo: iPon

Security risks and Nintendo’s response to data leaks

There is growing concern regarding the upcoming Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake, which is scheduled for release on November 5.

The decryption keys are typically not available until the official game launch. However, the current exploit, which originated from the SmileBASIC 4 application, has already allowed researchers to examine file structures and directory layouts.

Nintendo has already taken action by removing SmileBASIC 4 from its eShop following the release of the exploit, according to Light_88_ via X. This follows a pattern of the company attempting to pull vulnerable software to mitigate further security breaches.

Pro tip:

When hardware exploits emerge, developers often use “overclocking” to increase the console’s clock speed, which can help run demanding software that was originally designed for more powerful hardware.

Developers block public access to Switch 2 game ports

Can I download these Switch 2 ports for my original Switch?

No. The developer @touhoufagyuri stated on X that the code is private for demonstration purposes only due to legal reasons, and users should purchase the official games.

Is the Switch 2 jailbreak permanent?

The current exploit is linked to the SmileBASIC 4 application, and while it allows for homebrew and file dumping, Nintendo has already begun removing certain software from the eShop to address vulnerabilities.