Minecraft for Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Live, Free Upgrade Path Detailed
Pre-orders for Minecraft for Nintendo Switch 2 have officially gone live, accompanied by new details regarding the much-anticipated release and its digital upgrade path. Developed by Mojang, the native version of the sandbox hit is scheduled to arrive on October 27, bringing enhanced features and performance optimizations to Nintendo’s next-generation hardware.
Release Date and Pre-Order Details
The native version of Minecraft for Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on October 27. Ahead of the physical and digital rollout, Mojang has opened pre-orders through the Nintendo eShop. All versions of Minecraft for Nintendo Switch 2 will include the Super Mario Mash-Up Pack alongside support for Vibrant Visuals, though developers note that Vibrant Visuals will remain unavailable during certain gameplay modes, such as split-screen and when using specific Marketplace worlds and content.
Digital Upgrade Path and Limited-Time Offer
Players who already own a digital copy of Minecraft on the original Nintendo Switch system will have access to a digital upgrade path. In most territories—excluding Japan and Taiwan—players can pre-order the digital Minecraft Standard Edition for Nintendo Switch 2 for free until the end of January 2027.
Additionally, eligible players seeking expanded content will have the option to upgrade to a Deluxe Collection or Ultimate Collection for discounted fees through the Nintendo eShop. Because the free standard edition upgrade is structured as a limited-time promotional offer running through January 2027, players are encouraged to secure their digital upgrade before the deadline.
What to Expect from the Switch 2 Native Version
While players who already own the original Switch version can continue using the backward-compatible release on the new console, the native application is expected to give Mojang significantly more room to improve long-term performance. Multiplayer functionalities, Minecraft Realms, the Marketplace, and Microsoft account support are all expected to remain integrated within the wider Minecraft Bedrock ecosystem on the new platform.