The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Launches on Switch 2—Price, Upgrades, and Features Explained
- Sagar Mankar
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim has once again returned, this time making its debut on Nintendo’s latest console, the Switch 2.
The version arriving on Switch 2 is the Anniversary Edition, which includes the base game along with all three major expansions—Dawnguard, Dragonborn, and Hearthfire—plus hundreds of Creation Club items.
While the Anniversary Edition was already playable on Switch 2 through backward compatibility, Bethesda has now optimized the game specifically for the new console, taking advantage of its upgraded hardware.
The Switch 2 edition also retains Nintendo-exclusive content inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, including the Master Sword, Hylian Shield, and Champion’s Tunic.
Price and Upgrade Options
Free Upgrade: Owners of Skyrim Anniversary Edition on Switch 1 can download the Switch 2 version at no extra cost.
Upgrade Path: Players with the base Skyrim on Switch 1 can purchase the Anniversary Upgrade for $19.99 / £17.99.
New Purchase: Those new to Skyrim on Switch can buy the Anniversary Edition for $59.99 / £52.99.
Installing the upgrade is straightforward. Simply transfer your Switch version to the Switch 2, download it from the eShop, or insert the physical cartridge. Launch the game, and you'll see an eShop banner on the main menu. Press "Y" to access the content and follow the prompts to complete your purchase or download.
What’s New in Skyrim on Switch 2
Enhanced resolution with DLSS anti-aliasing.
Improved load times for smoother transitions.
Optimized performance stability across portable and docked modes.
Joy-Con 2 mouse control support.
Motion control compatibility.
Amiibo support for added in-game bonuses.
Retains Zelda-inspired gear (Master Sword, Hylian Shield, Champion’s Tunic).
While some might roll their eyes at yet another Skyrim release, there's no denying that Bethesda's 2011 masterpiece continues to find new audiences across different platforms. The game has been ported to everything from PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles to PC and even, hilariously enough, Amazon Echo to some extent. The Switch 2 is simply the latest device joining this ever-growing list.
Meanwhile, The Elder Scrolls VI remains "still a long way off" according to Bethesda's Todd Howard, though development has become an "everyday thing" at the studio. Back in 2023, Howard admitted he wished he'd been more casual with the game's announcement, while Skyrim's lead designer Bruce Nesmith revealed the early reveal was partly to calm fans who had their "pitchforks and torches" out.