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The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom adds upgraded visuals and performance, HDR, faster loading, the Zelda Notes companion service, and a second save file. It is an enhanced edition of the same adventure, not a story expansion. You need a Nintendo Switch 2 to play it; if you already own the original Switch game, you can use the Upgrade Pack instead of buying the game again.
What’s new in the Switch 2 Edition?
Nintendo lists four technical enhancements: higher resolution, improved frame rates, HDR support, and faster loading. These are Nintendo’s qualitative descriptions; its product information does not give a specific resolution, frame rate, or loading-time comparison.
Zelda Notes
Zelda Notes is an edition-exclusive service accessed through the Nintendo Switch App on a compatible smart device. Nintendo describes features including voiced navigation and character insights. It requires a persistent internet connection, and data charges may apply.
A second save file
The Switch 2 Edition lets you use two save files, so you can continue a journey and start another separately. Nintendo warns that the second save created in the Switch 2 Edition cannot be transferred back to the original Switch version for play.
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- Explore the land and skies of Hyrule—now enhanced for the Nintendo Switch 2 system!
- Unleash your imagination by using your abilities in surprising and creative ways
- Support your journey with ZELDA NOTES on the Nintendo Switch app
How the Switch 2 Edition compares with the original
| Feature | Original Switch edition | Switch 2 Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Required console | Nintendo Switch | Nintendo Switch 2; Nintendo says this edition is playable only on Switch 2. |
| Visuals and performance | The original release. | Nintendo lists higher resolution, improved frame rates, HDR support, and faster loading; no numerical benchmarks are stated. |
| Zelda Notes | Not available as an edition feature. | Available through the Nintendo Switch App on a compatible smart device; persistent internet is required. |
| Save files | The original edition’s save files. | Two save files; the second save created in this edition cannot be transferred back to the original Switch version for play. |
Nintendo lists June 5, 2025, as the Switch 2 Edition’s release date. The announced changes are technical and companion features; Nintendo does not describe additional story content.
How to upgrade if you own the original game
- Make sure you have a Nintendo Switch 2. The Switch 2 Edition and its Upgrade Pack require that console.
- Keep access to the original Tears of the Kingdom game. The Upgrade Pack works with a physical or digital copy, but does not replace the base game.
- Get the Upgrade Pack through Nintendo. Nintendo’s US store says active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members can access it at no additional charge. Nintendo Support lists the US purchase price as $9.99 for those who do not qualify for that membership benefit. Prices and membership terms may differ by region, so check your local Nintendo store.
- Launch the upgraded game on Switch 2 and choose whether to continue your existing journey or use the additional save file. Keep the save-transfer limitation in mind if you expect to return to the original Switch version.
Which purchase route makes sense?
If you already own the Switch game
The Upgrade Pack is the route to the Switch 2 Edition; you do not need to buy the full game again. The original game remains required. In the United States, active Expansion Pack members can access the upgrade at no additional charge according to Nintendo’s store listing; otherwise Nintendo Support lists a $9.99 US price.
Rank #2
- Enhanced performance and visuals exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2.
- Explore the skies, caves, and vast lands of Hyrule in a massive open-world adventure.
- Wield new and returning abilities to craft solutions, vehicles, and weapons.
- Discover the mystery behind the spreading gloom threatening the kingdom.
- Use the ZELDA NOTES app to share, compare, and earn daily bonuses.
If you do not own the game
You can buy the physical Switch 2 Edition, which requires a Switch 2. You can also acquire the original Switch game and then use the Upgrade Pack, but the available information does not establish which route costs less in your region. Compare current local prices before choosing.
If you only have an original Switch
The Switch 2 Edition is not playable on the original console. You can keep playing the original edition there; access to the enhanced edition requires a Switch 2.
Rank #3
![The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack - Nintendo Switch 2 [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41i3ez7HjYL._SL160_.jpg)
- Persistent internet and compatible smart device required. Data charges may apply.
- QR Code is a registered trademark of DENSO WAVE INCORPORATED.
Is the Switch 2 Edition worth upgrading to?
It is most appealing if you plan to play on Switch 2 and value the listed visual and performance improvements, Zelda Notes, or a separate second save. If you are satisfied with the original edition, Nintendo’s feature list does not indicate new story content that would require a replay. The practical choice is whether those enhancements and companion features justify the upgrade cost in your region—or, for eligible US members, whether you want to use the included upgrade access.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Zelda Tears of the Kingdom themed deluxe travel case
- Matches Zelda Split Pad Pro Design
- Compatible with all Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch - OLED model
- Also holds Switch with AC adapter & other accessories
- Officially Licensed by Nintendo
Official Nintendo details
- Nintendo: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack
- Nintendo US Store: Switch 2 Edition
- Nintendo Support: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Packs
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
