It arrived without fanfare. On February 17, 2026, a new free Nintendo Switch 2 game appeared on the Nintendo eShop. Not a simple compatibility inherited from the first Switch, but a native version optimized for the new Nintendo console.
The game in question is Asphalt Legends Unite, the racing title developed by Gameloft. Already released in 2024 on Nintendo Switch, it was playable on Switch 2 thanks to backward compatibility. Until now, no native version existed for the new console. It is now done. This edition specially designed for the Nintendo Switch 2 significantly improves the technical experience. Increased resolution, stabilized performance and better fluidity: the objective is clear, to exploit the power of the new hardware.
Asphalt Legends Unite optimized for Nintendo Switch 2 at 1440p and 60 FPS
The new version offers a resolution of 1440p in TV mode. In portable mode, it reaches 1080p. In both configurations, the refresh rate remains stable at 60 frames per second. This level of performance is not trivial for a free-to-play title. It places Asphalt Legends Unite among the most technically advanced free games currently available on the console. For players who have already downloaded the game on the first Switch, the transition to the native version allows them to immediately benefit from these visual and technical improvements.
A free-to-play model with integrated monetization
Asphalt Legends Unite operates on a free-to-play model with monetization. It is possible to play without spending money, but progress may be slower without in-app purchases. Concretely, not using monetization means investing more time to unlock vehicles, improvements and additional content. This operation is now classic in the sector of free racing games. The move to the free-to-play model is not recent for the Asphalt series. After several premium episodes, the franchise gradually adopted this format, thus expanding its audience.
An Asphalt franchise with 1.7 billion downloads
The Asphalt series dates back to 2004 with the release of Asphalt: Urban GT for Nintendo DS and other platforms. Since this first appearance, numerous opuses have been published on consoles and mobiles. In total, the franchise has 1.7 billion downloads worldwide. Few free-to-play series can claim such a figure.
Critically, the Metacritic data available for Asphalt Legends Unite shows an aggregate score of 74. On Steam, the game has an approval rating of 79%, based on a large volume of user reviews.
Gameloft is also preparing Disney Dreamlight Valley on Switch 2
Gameloft also confirmed that a Nintendo Switch 2 edition of Disney Dreamlight Valley is in the works. This version will not be free, unlike Asphalt Legends Unite. With this discreet but strategic release, the Nintendo Switch 2 is gradually enriching its optimized catalog, by combining high-performance free titles and premium games adapted to its architecture.