Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – Definitive Edition Receives Full Physical Release on Nintendo Switch

Rockstar Games has officially launched a full physical edition of Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – Definitive Edition for Nintendo Switch, marking a significant update more than three years after the compilation’s original debut on the hybrid platform.

The trilogy, which includes Grand Theft Auto III, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, and Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, was initially released digitally and later as a boxed set for the Nintendo Switch.

However, the initial retail release required players to download substantial portions of the games, with Grand Theft Auto: Vice City not included on the cartridge itself, necessitating a separate download after booting up.

Additionally, post-launch patches for Grand Theft Auto III and San Andreas were delivered via downloadable updates.

Recently, a quietly updated physical edition of Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – Definitive Edition was made available for purchase, now featuring revised boxart that omits the previous 'Download Required' label.

This change signals that the cartridge now contains the complete trilogy, eliminating the need for additional downloads—a first for the Nintendo Switch version.

While Rockstar Games has not issued a public statement about this new release, retailer listings offer concrete details.

According to Amazon, the new version of the game is set for a release date of July 28, 2025.

This listing is separate from the prior one, which remains available, albeit with less compelling value for players seeking a comprehensive offline experience.

In addition to offering the complete trilogy on a single cartridge, the updated physical release comes at a notable price reduction.

The new boxed version retails for $30, presenting a marked contrast with the original’s $60 price tag.

At the time of writing, discounts on the initial release have been observed, but the updated edition remains a more affordable and user-friendly purchase for both collectors and new players.

Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – Definitive Edition’s Switch release is part of Rockstar Games’ ongoing efforts to modernize legacy titles for a new generation of hardware.

Since its first arrival on the Nintendo eShop and in boxed form, the trilogy has expanded the reach of these classic games to audiences who prefer physical media or who may not have digital storage readily available.

This updated version appears to incorporate recent patches, further addressing performance and gameplay enhancements issued since launch.

This development is noteworthy not only for Switch enthusiasts but also for preservation advocates and fans of physical game collecting.

With the new full-content cartridge, players can now enjoy Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – Definitive Edition on Nintendo Switch entirely offline, enhancing accessibility and convenience.

For those looking to secure a copy, the new version is currently available for pre-order through Amazon and is expected to reach more retailers as the July 2025 release date approaches.

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