Minecraft Is Coming to Nintendo Switch 2 Soon With an Upgrade Path for Switch 1 Owners

Minecraft is getting a proper Nintendo Switch 2 version very soon, and Switch 1 owners will be entitled to an upgrade.

Mojang has announced that Minecraft will release on the Nintendo Switch 2 on October 27th. The game has been playable through Switch 2's backward compatibility for some time now, but fans will now be able to take advantage of enhanced visuals and performance features. Mojang noted that the Switch 2 version will include the Vibrant Visuals graphics option by default, which will give the game a leg up on the last-gen version. This will give players better lighting, shadows, and other graphical upgrades to make the visual experience more appealing and modern.

Additionally, the Nintendo exclusive Super Mario Mash-Up will also be upgraded to take advantage of the Vibrant Visuals graphics option. If you already own the game on Nintendo Switch 1, Mojang has promised an upgrade path for players so they can enjoy the game on Switch 2. The wording suggests that the upgrade may not be free, however, but it's not totally clear.

Either way, it's another game that Nintendo Switch 2 players can add to their libraries. Minecraft remains one of the most dominant games on the market, and it has managed to achieve that by making itself widely available across almost every modern platform with a screen. Later this year, the game is expected to get a big update which will include a new biome. Presumably, this will also be available on Nintendo Switch 2, but stay tuned for more info.

Cade Onder is a freelancer for IGN's news team. He covers all things entertainment, including gaming, film, and more. You can find him on Twitter @Cade_Onder.