Terminator 2D: No Fate—Why Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Likeness is Absent on Nintendo Switch

When it comes to adapting blockbuster movies into video games, securing rights for iconic actor likenesses can often present major hurdles.

This issue is front and center in the upcoming release of Terminator 2D: No Fate, developed for the Nintendo Switch.

Based on James Cameron’s renowned 1991 film, fans might expect the unmistakable face of Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator.

Yet, recent reveals and trailers for the title have noticeably omitted his likeness—a decision rooted in the nuanced world of video game licensing. In a candid interview with IGN, publisher Reef Entertainment clarified the legal boundaries established for Terminator 2D: No Fate.

Although the team secured rights to the key characters, including Sarah Connor, John Connor, the T1000, and the T800, the agreement with Studio Canal distinguishes between using a character and utilizing an actor’s physical likeness.

For example, Linda Hamilton’s portrayal of Sarah Connor is present in the game thanks to her providing image rights to Studio Canal.

This is why fans see her appearance in early promotional videos.

In contrast, the rights to the Terminator character itself do not extend to including Arnold Schwarzenegger’s image.

As a result, visual representations in the game depict the Terminator as its infamous endoskeleton, rather than Schwarzenegger’s familiar features. Securing image rights for high-profile actors commonly involves complex negotiations and substantial compensation.

While Schwarzenegger has allowed his likeness in major video games like Mortal Kombat 1, such arrangements typically exceed the scope and budget of more niche projects like Terminator 2D: No Fate for Nintendo Switch and eShop distribution.

Despite these challenges, the developers managed to include the likeness of Michael Edwards, who portrayed the future version of John Connor in the original T2 film.

According to Reef Entertainment, "We made a direct effort to secure permission from Michael Edwards to portray his likeness, handling his agreement separately from broader licensing negotiations." This approach highlights the careful distinction between using intellectual property and securing individual actor agreements for their digital representation in licensed video games. Michael Edwards’ brief but significant appearance in Terminator 2: Judgment Day establishes John Connor as the leader of the future human resistance.

Although not the only actor to have stepped into Connor’s role—other portrayals include Christian Bale in Terminator Salvation and Jason Clarke in Terminator Genisys—Edwards’ contribution resonates with franchise fans.

Interestingly, IGN notes that Edwards, now in his eighties, has reprised the role in fan productions, such as 2021’s Terminator: Skynet. As Terminator 2D: No Fate prepares for launch on the Nintendo Switch, it stands as a compelling case study in the challenges of adapting legendary film franchises for the interactive medium.

While the absence of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s likeness may come as a surprise, the game still captures the spirit of the film through careful character licensing and respectful homages to its enduring legacy.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Terminator 2D No Fate Arnold Schwarzenegger Reef Entertainment Studio Canal IGN Michael Edwards Linda Hamilton Terminator