Bethesda has delivered a significant update for fans of The Elder Scrolls series, announcing that The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Anniversary Edition will receive a free Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade, available starting today.
This major release brings the beloved 2011 RPG to Nintendo's latest hardware, promising visual enhancements, faster load times, and optimized performance for both newcomers and longtime Dragonborns. Skyrim Anniversary Edition first launched as a comprehensive package, including all three official expansions—Dawnguard, Dragonborn, and Hearthfire—along with a curated selection of Creations Club content.
On Nintendo Switch, the game was especially notable for including exclusive Zelda-themed assets, cementing its appeal to Nintendo fans.
With this new Switch 2 upgrade, Bethesda is doubling down on that commitment by offering substantial quality-of-life improvements that leverage the new console’s capabilities. Players upgrading to the Switch 2 version will immediately benefit from improved resolution, noticeably reduced load times, and a smoother, more responsive experience courtesy of performance optimization.
Additionally, the upgrade introduces Mouse Mode support—a first for the series on Nintendo platforms—making exploration and combat more intuitive.
As before, all the Anniversary Edition content remains intact, from expansion packs to the popular Creations Club additions, ensuring a robust package whether playing for the first time or returning for another adventure in Tamriel. Importantly, Bethesda has confirmed that owners of the Skyrim Anniversary Edition on the original Nintendo Switch can download the Switch 2 upgrade at no additional cost.
Those who own only the base game have the option to purchase the upgrade to the Anniversary Edition for £17.99 or their regional equivalent, while new players can purchase the complete package for £52.99 via the Nintendo Switch eShop. Matt Carofano, Bethesda’s Creative Director, commented on the launch, saying the studio aimed to deliver the most authentic and enhanced Skyrim experience possible on Nintendo’s newest platform.
He emphasized the team’s dedication to optimizing every aspect of the game for Switch 2 users, so both returning players and first-timers can fully immerse themselves in the world of Skyrim. The Anniversary Edition’s arrival on Nintendo Switch 2 marks another milestone in Skyrim’s storied legacy, continuing its tradition of broad accessibility, cross-generational support, and rich content updates.
With this free upgrade, Bethesda not only honors its existing Nintendo fanbase but also reaffirms The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim’s status as one of the most enduring RPG experiences available. To see the game in action on Switch 2, players can watch the newly released reveal trailer and browse official screenshots through Bethesda’s channels.
For deeper insight into this upgrade, readers are encouraged to check out our recent interview with Creative Director Matt Carofano.
This major release brings the beloved 2011 RPG to Nintendo's latest hardware, promising visual enhancements, faster load times, and optimized performance for both newcomers and longtime Dragonborns. Skyrim Anniversary Edition first launched as a comprehensive package, including all three official expansions—Dawnguard, Dragonborn, and Hearthfire—along with a curated selection of Creations Club content.
On Nintendo Switch, the game was especially notable for including exclusive Zelda-themed assets, cementing its appeal to Nintendo fans.
With this new Switch 2 upgrade, Bethesda is doubling down on that commitment by offering substantial quality-of-life improvements that leverage the new console’s capabilities. Players upgrading to the Switch 2 version will immediately benefit from improved resolution, noticeably reduced load times, and a smoother, more responsive experience courtesy of performance optimization.
Additionally, the upgrade introduces Mouse Mode support—a first for the series on Nintendo platforms—making exploration and combat more intuitive.
As before, all the Anniversary Edition content remains intact, from expansion packs to the popular Creations Club additions, ensuring a robust package whether playing for the first time or returning for another adventure in Tamriel. Importantly, Bethesda has confirmed that owners of the Skyrim Anniversary Edition on the original Nintendo Switch can download the Switch 2 upgrade at no additional cost.
Those who own only the base game have the option to purchase the upgrade to the Anniversary Edition for £17.99 or their regional equivalent, while new players can purchase the complete package for £52.99 via the Nintendo Switch eShop. Matt Carofano, Bethesda’s Creative Director, commented on the launch, saying the studio aimed to deliver the most authentic and enhanced Skyrim experience possible on Nintendo’s newest platform.
He emphasized the team’s dedication to optimizing every aspect of the game for Switch 2 users, so both returning players and first-timers can fully immerse themselves in the world of Skyrim. The Anniversary Edition’s arrival on Nintendo Switch 2 marks another milestone in Skyrim’s storied legacy, continuing its tradition of broad accessibility, cross-generational support, and rich content updates.
With this free upgrade, Bethesda not only honors its existing Nintendo fanbase but also reaffirms The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim’s status as one of the most enduring RPG experiences available. To see the game in action on Switch 2, players can watch the newly released reveal trailer and browse official screenshots through Bethesda’s channels.
For deeper insight into this upgrade, readers are encouraged to check out our recent interview with Creative Director Matt Carofano.
