"Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Pokémon Shining Pearl" was first released in 2021, but its release was overshadowed by other titles, including "Pokémon Legends Arceus" and even the 2019 mainline title "Pokémon Sword and Shield." The Sinnoh game remake was marred by glitches and disappointing framerate drops during its debut.
For Switch 2 gamers, things will now change if you're still playing "BDSP." Recently, Nintendo has quietly resolved the long-standing stability issues. This offers relief to fans who experienced crashes and inconsistent performance following the console's launch.
Backward Compatibility Issues Officially Fixed
Nintendo confirmed the fix through updated eShop listings, stating that the previously reported problems affecting both Pokémon titles have been resolved. The solution arrived as part of system firmware update version 21.2.0, which rolled out simultaneously for Nintendo Switch 2 and the original Nintendo Switch.
While the crashes were not universal, they were widespread enough to significantly disrupt gameplay for a large portion of the Pokémon community. With the latest firmware installed, "Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl" now run as intended on Switch 2 hardware.
Firmware Update Addresses Additional Games
The firmware update extends beyond Pokémon. Nintendo also resolved backward compatibility issues with "Cats on Duty, "another title that struggled to function properly on Switch 2 at launch. Following the update, the game now runs normally, reinforcing Nintendo's efforts to stabilize its legacy library on new hardware.
These fixes suggest Nintendo is actively monitoring player feedback and prioritizing software stability as more older titles are tested on the Switch 2 platform.
One Backward Compatibility Issue Remains
Despite the positive news, not all backward-compatible games are completely issue-free. Nintendo has acknowledged an unresolved problem with "Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe." While the game is playable on Switch 2, some players may experience audio glitches in certain areas, per Nintendo Everything.
The Big N has confirmed the issue is under investigation, but has not yet provided a timeline for a fix.
Switch 2 Owners Can Relive the Sinnoh Nostalgia Better
For Pokémon fans, the update restores confidence in revisiting Sinnoh without fear of crashes or lost progress. More broadly, it shows Nintendo's commitment to refining Switch 2 backward compatibility through firmware updates rather than leaving issues unaddressed.
