Rumors surrounding Nintendo’s upcoming Switch successor are heating up, and a new potential title for the console has set fans buzzing. A definitive edition ofElden Ring, FromSoftware’s critically acclaimed 2022 hit, is reportedly in the works for the Switch 2, aiming for a late 2025 release.Virtuos, a studio experienced in porting projects, is rumored to be handlingthe adaptation, fueling excitement about the console’s potential to support one of the most popular games of the last decade. If true, this news could mark a major leap in third-party support for Nintendo’s next-gen system, solidifying it as a serious contender for major cross-platform releases.
It’s no secret thatElden Ring, with its massive open world and intricate lore penned byGame of Thronesauthor George R. R. Martin, is a monumental game of this generation. The potential addition of this GOTY-winning title to the Switch 2 lineup would be a testament to the system’s power, especially given thatElden Ringlaunched as a cross-generation title available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows.
A Technical Feat: Elden Ring on Switch 2
FromSoftware builtElden Ringwith impressive versatility, making it accessible across a wide range of consoles. With the Switch 2 expected to meet or even exceed that level of performance, Nintendo’s upcoming console could potentially handleElden Ringwith custom optimizations. Speculation around the Switch 2 suggests it may offer power comparable to the PS4, with added optimizations for modern features. This aligns well withElden Ring’s flexible design, opening up the possibility for a well-optimized experience on the new console.
Additionally, the rumoredinclusion ofShadow of the Erdtree, a sizable DLCthat some players have argued could stand alone as a full game, would make this release even more significant. If Nintendo’s next console can provide a satisfying experience for a game of this scale, it would reassure fans that other AAA games could follow.
Elden Ring Signals Growing Third-Party Support
The rumored addition ofElden Ringhints atNintendo’s increasing efforts to secure high-profile third-party games. Alongside whispers of other major titles likeMonster Hunter WildsandMetaphor ReFantaziocoming to the Switch 2,Elden Ringcould represent a shift in Nintendo’s console strategy. By aligning itself with current-generation releases, Nintendo might be establishing a different pattern for itself in the industry—one where it doesn’t lag as much behind in hardware capabilities. It’ll instead offer an appealing balance of power and portability.
This strategy would likely appeal to developers, who may be more inclined to bring popular games to a system that no longer presents significant technical limitations.Nintendo’s position between Sony’s and Microsoft’s consolescould encourage publishers to embrace the Switch 2 as a key platform for multi-platform releases.
Nintendo’s Future in a Competitive Market
Historically, Nintendo hasn’t focused oncompeting directly with Sony and Microsoftin terms of raw console power. Instead, it has carved out a distinct niche with its emphasis on innovation and portability. The success of the original Switch proved that players value flexibility and unique gameplay experiences. However, to maintain that momentum with the Switch 2, Nintendo will need to strike a balance, offering a system powerful enough to support more visually demanding titles while preserving the portability that fans love.
If the Switch 2 can achieve this, it would secure its place ina market where next-gen capabilities are increasingly expected. While it may not need to match the PS5 or Xbox Series X in sheer power, a more advanced Nintendo console with broad third-party support could make it the preferred choice for a new wave of gamers.
With a potential release likeElden Ring: Definitive Edition, Nintendo could be setting the stage for its most competitive and balanced console yet. As rumors continue to swirl, fans can only wait and see if Nintendo will indeed deliver on this vision, potentially redefining its role within the gaming landscape.
