Nintendo Switch 2 Upgrade Pricing Revealed: Is it Worth the Cost?
The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is generating huge buzz, and a key question on everyone's mind is: how will game upgrades work? While backwards compatibility is confirmed, Nintendo is offering enhanced versions of select older titles, boasting improved framerates, resolution, and new content. But are these upgrades worth the investment?
Initially, Nintendo offered a surprisingly affordable upgrade path for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, priced at just $10. However, recent reveals for Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Super Mario Party Jamboree upgrades have stirred up controversy, doubling the price to $20.
So, what justifies this price hike? According to reports, the Switch 2 Editions of Kirby and Mario Party include substantial bonus content. Kirby and the Forgotten Land gains the 'Star Crossed World' expansion, promising new challenges and mysteries. Super Mario Party Jamboree introduces 'Jamboree TV,' a game show experience featuring all-new minigames and modes that leverage the Switch 2's enhanced hardware, including the camera and microphone.
NintendoLife highlighted the eShop listings for Europe, initially revealing the potential pricing, which has since been mirrored in the US eShop listings. Best Buy is also listing the upgrade packs at $19.99.
While the Zelda upgrades are free for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers, this offer doesn't extend to Kirby or Mario Party. This means players must either purchase the upgrade pack or buy the full Switch 2 Edition to access the new content.
Nintendo's justification for the pricing strategy revolves around a case-by-case evaluation, considering factors like the quality of the play experience, development time, and more. However, at a time when Nintendo's pricing is already under scrutiny, this decision raises eyebrows.
Super Mario Party Jamboree for the Switch 2 is slated for release on July 24, followed by Kirby's Switch 2 edition on August 28. Purchasing the full Switch 2 version of either game will cost $80, making the upgrade a potentially appealing option for existing owners.
The prices for the Switch 2 Editions of upcoming titles like Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond remain unconfirmed, leaving fans to speculate.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to upgrade depends on individual preferences and budgets. Do you think the added content justifies the higher price tag? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
