Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition Switch 2 Upgrade Faces Backlash Over Visual Performance Issues

Nintendo made headlines last week with the unexpected launch of the Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, aiming to bring enhanced visuals and improved framerates to the beloved action RPG.

Developed by Monolith Soft, Xenoblade Chronicles X first debuted on the Wii U in 2015 and quickly became known for its expansive world and innovative gameplay.

The updated edition, released as a paid upgrade via the Nintendo eShop, was intended to leverage the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2, offering fans definitive improvements to one of the franchise's standout titles. However, not all fans are pleased with the results of this upgrade.

Numerous reports have emerged across gaming forums and social media platforms citing that the Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition upgrade does not deliver the promised enhancements.

In some cases, users have observed that the game's visual quality appears to have deteriorated rather than improved, raising concerns about performance and image fidelity on the new Nintendo Switch 2 hardware. One player, identified as tamodolo, shared their experience in the Xenoblade Chronicles community, stating that they requested a refund from Nintendo after noticing the image quality was inferior to the original game on previous hardware.

According to tamodolo, a Nintendo support representative acknowledged the issue and, after a brief review, processed a refund—even though digital game purchases are typically non-refundable.

This user also provided a step-by-step guide for others seeking a refund via the eShop's contact options, emphasizing the importance of voicing dissatisfaction to push for higher standards on paid content upgrades. Nintendo has not yet released an official statement addressing these specific reports.

The Xenoblade Chronicles series, developed by Monolith Soft, has built a dedicated following due to its ambitious world-building and critical acclaim, with Xenoblade Chronicles X selling over one million copies worldwide.

Expectations were high for the Switch 2 edition, especially given recent milestones and the platform's success with role-playing titles. The controversy surrounding the upgrade highlights the challenges of remastering games for new hardware and the importance of quality assurance, particularly when consumers are required to pay for additional enhancements.

In the meantime, players who have not yet purchased the upgrade may wish to wait for further updates or official fixes from Nintendo. As the story develops, both longtime fans and new players are encouraged to provide constructive feedback and stay tuned to official channels for any announcements regarding performance improvements or digital refund policies on the Nintendo eShop.

The situation underscores the critical role of community feedback in shaping the quality and reliability of digital game upgrades on major platforms like Nintendo Switch 2.