Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition Shines on Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Lineup

Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition Joins the Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Wave As the Nintendo Switch 2 made its debut, a host of previously-released and enhanced titles have helped bolster its launch lineup.

One standout among these offerings is Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition, developed by Koei Tecmo.

This historical simulation strategy game is no stranger to multiple platforms, but its Switch 2 release brings together nearly all previously released content and new features, aiming to provide the most comprehensive experience for fans and newcomers alike. Nobunaga’s Ambition is an iconic series in Koei Tecmo’s portfolio, known for intricate strategy mechanics and deep historical context.

Awakening Complete Edition is an expanded version of Nobunaga’s Ambition Shinsei, which initially launched in Japan and Asia in 2022.

The expanded Western release followed in 2023, featuring added content through what fans recognize as the 'Power-up Kit.' The Complete Edition delivers the base game alongside most DLC, visual improvements, and new features, including enhanced input methods custom-tailored for Nintendo Switch 2. Players on Steam, PS4, PS5, and the original Nintendo Switch have previously enjoyed various forms of the game.

However, only with this latest edition has virtually all content been bundled for day-one availability on Nintendo Switch 2 and PlayStation 5.

Notably, Koei Tecmo shows their continued commitment to accessibility and versatility by integrating diverse control options: players can seamlessly switch between traditional button inputs, revamped touchscreen support, and innovative mouse controls via Joy-Con 2—an option rarely matched by genre peers on home consoles. In a statement summarizing the developer’s approach, Koei Tecmo emphasized their pursuit of a polished interface and “intuitive control support across handheld and docked play.” This attention to flexibility sets the game apart, especially for players who prefer handheld gaming or wish to experiment with multiple control schemes on Nintendo Switch 2. While the inclusion of Japanese and English voiceovers, along with the critically acclaimed original soundtrack, makes for an immersive experience, there are some caveats.

Visual improvements are evident over previous Switch hardware, yet the title still suffers from lower resolution compared to versions running on PS5 or PC.

Frame rates occasionally dip below their targets—30fps on Nintendo Switch 2 and 60fps on PS5—impacting performance most noticeably during handheld play or on large display setups.

UI elements can also appear small in handheld mode, a missed opportunity considering the platform's enhanced display capabilities. Players should also be aware that, despite being labeled 'Complete Edition,' there is no upgrade path or save data migration for existing owners on Nintendo Switch.

The absence of an upgrade path and the existence of multiple separately-sold versions may be disappointing to series veterans.

All additional content is bundled from the outset, but two DLC items—digital music and books—remain unavailable as part of the package. Gameplay-wise, new players may face a steep learning curve.

Even with the in-game manual and tutorial, true mastery comes from experience and experimentation.

Once acclimated, the replay value becomes clear: players can select from numerous historical scenarios, tweak parameters, choose among a wealth of clans, and enjoy the divergent storylines and strategies that define the series.

Each session quickly transforms from a planned 15-minute stint into an hours-long campaign of political intrigue and conquest across feudal Japan. Despite its technical shortcomings and lack of an upgrade path, Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition delivers one of the most content-rich, portable entries in the franchise to date.

The thoughtful approach to control options and the small installation footprint make it an ideal companion for long-time fans and strategic newcomers on Nintendo Switch 2.

As Koei Tecmo continues to fine-tune its offerings for new hardware, this Complete Edition stands as a worthy investment in the early Switch 2 library for any strategy aficionado.

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