Wild Hearts S Brings Enhanced Multiplayer and Upgrades to Nintendo Switch 2

Entry information

Published on: May 04, 2025

Description

Koei Tecmo is set to bring one of its most dynamic hunting titles back into the spotlight with the announcement of Wild Hearts S, an enhanced version scheduled for release on Nintendo Switch 2 on July 25, 2025.

This revamped edition of Wild Hearts incorporates several significant changes tailor-made for Nintendo’s next-generation console, and the publisher has published a comprehensive breakdown of differences between the original release and the new 'S' version on its official website. Expanded Multiplayer and Console Features The headline feature in Wild Hearts S is a substantial boost to cooperative play.

Instead of the previous three-player limit, Wild Hearts S now supports up to four players in both local and online multiplayer.

This enhancement aligns the game with modern standards for multiplayer experiences, especially on the Nintendo Switch 2, though cross-platform multiplayer remains unavailable.

To participate in online play, users will need an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription, but an EA account is not required for access. Voice and text chat capabilities are absent from the software itself, following a trend among some Nintendo Switch titles.

However, voice communication is possible via the Nintendo Switch 2’s integrated 'Game Chat' feature. Included Content and Karakuri Edition Bonuses Wild Hearts S ensures that all players will have access to updates previously rolled out for additional beasts and gameplay modes, integrated from the beginning.

Notably, this version does not add any new weapons, Karakuri, or monsters beyond what is already present in the enriched base package. As an added bonus, all content initially exclusive to the Wild Hearts Karakuri Edition will be bundled with Wild Hearts S.

This means players will receive two full cosmetic armor sets, a decorative Tsukumo lantern, and three unique emotes right out of the box, streamlining the collection of in-game rewards. Gameplay and Balance Enhancements In response to player feedback, Koei Tecmo has refined several gameplay elements for Wild Hearts S.

The development team has adjusted the stats of select weapons and armor to make early encounters with high-difficulty bosses more accessible, providing a more balanced progression curve.

Additionally, the AI behavior related to beasts has been modified: their likelihood to flee after taking damage has been altered, and the frequency of escape events is reduced, making hunts more predictable and engaging. Launch Timeline and Continued Support With a global launch date set for July 25, 2025 on Nintendo Switch 2, Wild Hearts S aims to deliver a fresh and improved hunting experience, building upon Koei Tecmo’s expertise and the growing capabilities of Nintendo’s latest console.

Players eager for collaborative action and refined gameplay mechanics will find much to look forward to in this definitive release. Stay tuned for further insights on Wild Hearts S, Nintendo Switch 2 exclusives, and future updates from Koei Tecmo as launch day approaches.

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Koei Tecmo details Wild Hearts S differences on Nintendo Switch 2