A big name JRPG lands for the Switch 2 this week, with Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
Xenoblade (ported) Chronicles
Fresh off of a bunch of new reveals and announcements, comes a pretty solid Nintendo Download. While there aren’t a ton of big name releases this week, there are a few notables, and they’re led by a monster of a name. That, as you can see above, is Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
That’s a mouthful of a title for sure, and one that sees the first game in the Xenoblade saga land on Nintendo’s latest console with a few additions. That’s right, this isn’t just a straight port with some bumped up graphics, this one’s packing.
Fans will find new equipment designs this time around, plus fresh voiceovers in the “Heart-to-Heart scenes”. That’s not all though, as there’re a major vehicular evolution in play too. A “high-speed vehicle” is now an option for traversal, and there are even some racing modes to partake in. Not bad at all for this kind of a thing.
Other than Xenoblade Chronicles, this week also sees the Star Fox demo arrive for the Switch 2. So if you’ve been itching to try Nintendo’s upcoming shooter, now’s your time. As for more full games, Sea of Stars arrives for the Switch 2 as well, plus EA SPORTS FC 26 The World’s Game Edition arrives for both Switch consoles.
Scroll down to check out the full listing.
This week’s Nintendo Download includes the following content:
Nintendo eShop on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2:
Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition – Experience the critically-acclaimed first game in the Xenoblade Chroniclessaga in 4K resolution on compatible TVs and full HD in handheld mode, all at 60 fps. The Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition game features a host of new additions, such as a high-speed vehicle for traversing the game’s vast areas, new racing modes that let you earn in-game rewards, new equipment designs, and new voiceover added to the game’s Heart-to-Heart scenes. Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is available now. An upgrade pack1 is also available for players who already have Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition for the Nintendo Switch system!
STARSEEKER: Astroneer Expeditions – Start your mission in a brand-new game set within the Astroneer universe with a focus on discovery, cooperative expeditions and camaraderie. Exploring deep space on the ESS Starseeker, players will need to work together with the crew of the space station to complete objectives that will take them further into the unknown regions of each planet. Embark on timed expeditions to gather resources, complete missions and further your goals, as well as those of your squad and the entire station. STARSEEKER: Astroneer Expeditions is available today on Nintendo Switch 2.
Nintendo Switch 2:
Nintendo Switch 2: Choose Your Game Bundle – Kick off the fun with a Nintendo Switch 2 system, your choice of a select digital game, and a savings2 of up to $29.99! Every Nintendo Switch 2: Choose Your Game Bundle comes with a download code that can be redeemed for a digital version of Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza or Pokémon Pokopia. This bundle is available on Nintendo Store and at participating retailers for a limited time while supplies last.
Demos:
Star Fox– A cinematic take on the Star Fox 64 game, Star Fox features newly overhauled character designs, freshly revamped looks for each stage, plus detailed cutscenes, fully voiced dialogue and a sweeping orchestral soundtrack. Experience all the classic action plus new modes – including online multiplayer3 – as you embark on a dangerous mission to save the Lylat System. Star Fox launches for Nintendo Switch 2 June 25, and you can enjoy a free demo available on Nintendo eShop now!
Pre-orders:
ELDEN RING Tarnished Edition – ELDEN RING is an award-winning action RPG set in an authentic dark fantasy world. Explore treacherous dungeons and face epic boss battles. Including the base game and the SHADOW OF THE ERDTREEexpansion, as well as new weapons, armor, a new Torrent appearance customization, and more, ELDEN RING Tarnished Edition arrives on Nintendo Switch 2 Aug. 28. Pre-orders are available now on Nintendo eShop.
Minecraft Dungeons II – A hero’s work is never done! Return to the world of Minecraft Dungeons in an all new action RPG adventure brimming with high stakes encounters, thrilling challenges and never before seen locations as you set out to save a world in crisis. Will you and your allies prevail against the forces of evil and save the day once more? Minecraft Dungeons II launches Sept. 29 for Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch. Pre-orders are available now on Nintendo eShop.
Nintendo Switch Sports Resort – Return to Wuhu Island with the Nintendo Switch Sports Resort game, a new entry in the series coming exclusively to Nintendo Switch 2! Create a Mii character or Sportsmate, then get up and moving with intuitive motion controls that use Joy-Con 2 controllers in a variety of ways across 12 sports. Team up or challenge friends and family4, or play solo, in new and returning sports including Boxing, Table Tennis, Archery, Tennis, Volleyball, Bowling, Basketball, Golf and Thumb Wrestling – and leisure sports like Skateboarding, Power Cruising and Prop Plane. You can also do some warm-ups with Jump Rope! Nintendo Switch Sports Resort launches Oct. 22. Pre-orders are available now on Nintendo eShop.
Orbitals – Blast off with Maki and Omura as they brave the deadly Storm Wall and the perils beyond to save their home. This intergalactic two-player co-op adventure set in a retro anime-inspired universe rewards smart teamwork and clear communication. Save the day together when Orbitals blasts off for Nintendo Switch 2 Sept. 3. Pre-orders are available now on Nintendo eShop.
Nintendo Music:
The Cosmic Chorus – The Free Roam with Super Mario Galaxy and Free Roam with Super Mario Galaxy 2 playlists have been added to Nintendo Music5! Give your day a boost with star-studded tunes like “Egg Planet (Super Mario Galaxy),” “Sky Station Galaxy (Super Mario Galaxy 2)” and more! For more info, visit: https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/nintendo-music/.
A Whistle in the Wind – Stop and smell the roses with the freshly-added Nature playlist – a curated assortment of tracks well-suited for enjoying nature. Wind down or get focused with songs like “Sun-Speckled Terrace,” “Shiveria Snowscape” and “By the Water.”
Activities:
Donkey Kong Bananza: DK Island & Emerald Rush Super Mario Collaboration Event – The DK Island & Emerald Rush paid DLC6 for Donkey Kong Bananza will receive a new, limited-time content in collaboration with Super Mario Bros. Players who have beaten the main game and purchased the DLC can enjoy new outfits for Donkey Kong and Pauline inspired by Mario and Luigi, plus ? Blocks, Super Mushrooms and more! The first wave ends June 30 at 12:59 a.m. PT.
DK Challenge – Get ready for a unique limited-time event celebrating all things Donkey Kong! From now through 12:59 a.m. PT on Sept. 1, Nintendo Switch 2 players with an active Nintendo Switch Online membership3 can take on challenges across several NES, Super NES and Game Boy games featuring Donkey Kong available with Nintendo Classics. By completing them, you can earn and enjoy collectible digital Challenge Cards. Plus, if you have Donkey Kong Bananza, you can attempt even more challenges!
Nintendo eShop sales on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2:
For news and updates on all things Nintendo, you can also check out the free Nintendo Today! smart-device app. Whether it’s news about games, info about your favorite characters, or videos and comic strips — you’ll get personalized fun every day.
1 Full version of the Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition game required to use this content. Sold separately. For details, visit support.nintendo.com/switch2/upgradepack
2 Offer start date and end date varies by retailer, available while supplies last. Savings based on manufacturer’s suggested retail price when purchasing game and system separately. Actual savings may vary. See participating retailer for details.
3 Nintendo Switch Online membership (sold separately) and Nintendo Account required for online features. Membership auto-renews after initial term at the then-current price unless canceled. Not available in all countries. Internet access required for online features. Terms apply. nintendo.com/purchase-terms
4 Additional games, systems and/or accessories may be required for multiplayer mode. Games, systems, and some accessories sold separately.
5 Nintendo Switch Online membership (sold separately) and Nintendo Account required. Not available in all countries. Internet and compatible smart-device required to use app; data charges may apply. Terms apply. nintendo.com/purchase-terms
6 Full version of game required to use DLC. Sold separately.
Jason's been knee deep in videogames since he was but a lad. Cutting his teeth on the pixely glory that was the Atari 2600, he's been hack'n'slashing and shoot'em'uping ever since. Mainly an FPS and action guy, Jason enjoys the occasional well crafted title from every genre.
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