Xenoblade Chronicles 2 Switch 2 Edition Is Now Available With New Battle Mode and Sharper Visuals

Xenoblade Chronicles 2: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is now available as a digital download, with a physical version set to follow on October 1. The game can be purchased on its own for $69.99 / £58.99, or players who already own the original Switch version can upgrade for $9.99 / £7.99.

The Switch 2 Edition brings a new battle mode called Merc Assault, which lets players take direct control of Blades in action-based combat. The update also adds a new playable Blade, Momo, a character from the Xenosaga series, along with a quest that is exclusive to this version of the game. Beyond the new content, the biggest change for returning players will likely be the visual upgrade. The Switch 2 Edition runs at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second while docked, and switches to 1080p at 60 frames per second in handheld mode.

Today also marks the physical release of the Switch 2 Edition of the original Xenoblade Chronicles, which previously launched digitally last month. That version includes a new high-speed vehicle, additional equipment designs, and voice acting for its heart-to-heart conversations, which were previously text-only.

These releases are part of a wider effort by Nintendo to bring all four mainline games to the Switch 2. Xenoblade Chronicles X, originally a Wii U title, received its digital edition in February, followed by a physical release in April. Xenoblade Chronicles: Switch 2 Edition then launched digitally in June before receiving its physical release today. Xenoblade Chronicles 2 follows the same pattern, with its digital release out now and a physical release scheduled for October 1.

The final entry, Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Switch 2 Edition, is scheduled for both digital and physical release on December 3. This version is set to include new defensive battles against enemy waves, a new Hero character with an accompanying Hero Quest, and newly voiced event scenes.

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Beatrix

Undying Blue

An elite Society agent and contractor of the seal weapon Embrasque, Beatrix's ferocity when facing primal beasts is rivaled only by her insatiable hunger for glory.

Eustace

Earthrending Thunder

An elite Society marksman and contractor of the seal weapon Flamek Thunder, Eustace is efficient, laconic, and longs to live in a world of peace and quiet.

Fraux

Striking Strength

Pactbearer to The Devil, a primal seeking to create a new world order, Fraux is otherwise an ordinary skydweller whose heart, character, and temperament are filled with love and compassion.

Fediel

Darkness Personified

One of the Six Dragons, entities who exist beyond the confines of the natural world. Having dominion over darkness, she influences the very laws of nature.