Minecraft finally has a Switch 2 release date, but there may be bad news for Switch 1 owners
Mojang has confirmed that Minecraft will launch on Nintendo Switch 2 on 27th October, following weeks of speculation after the version leaked via an ESRB rating in June and was later confirmed by Nintendo without a firm date. The announcement also revealed that existing Switch 1 owners will not get a free upgrade to the new version, mirroring a growing trend among Switch 2 titles such as Zelda, Kirby and Metroid Prime 4 of charging for upgrades, though Mojang has yet to confirm pricing details.
The Switch 2 edition brings a graphical upgrade called Vibrant Visuals, adding enhanced lighting and shadow effects that are supported by most Marketplace content, including the Nintendo-exclusive Super Mario Mash-Up pack. However, the feature won't work in split-screen mode or with certain Marketplace Worlds and content. The update follows Minecraft's July preview build, which added craftable cushions some 17 years after the game's original release.
- Minecraft arrives on Switch 2 on 27th October.
- Switch 1 owners will likely have to pay to upgrade.
- New version adds Vibrant Visuals graphical enhancements, with some limitations.