Square Enix Unveils The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales Release Date and HD-2D Demo for Nintendo Switch 2

Square Enix revealed major news for Nintendo fans during the most recent Nintendo Partner Direct, highlighting the launch plans for its highly anticipated title, The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales.

Alongside notable announcements regarding Final Fantasy Rebirth’s expanded platforms, Square Enix delivered an in-depth update on Elliot’s newest adventure including a new gameplay trailer and a confirmed release date. The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales is set to launch on June 18, 2026, and will be available on Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

Having been originally announced in 2025, the game has attracted attention for its striking HD-2D art style—a visual signature that Square Enix has continued to refine in recent years.

Building on the legacy of visually rich, pixel-art experiences, the developer blends classic charm with modern graphical flourishes, making this title a standout for both retro enthusiasts and contemporary players. Speaking through a prepared statement during the Nintendo Direct stream, Square Enix emphasized the game’s homage to classic action-adventure titles, noting that The Adventures of Elliot parallels the gameplay of The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, but with a greater focus on dynamic combat sequences.

Company representatives underscored their commitment to delivering "an engaging blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and fast-paced combat, all rendered in high-definition 2D." A working demo of The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales has been available on the Nintendo eShop for several months, offering a hands-on preview of the game’s mechanics and visual presentation.

While players can experience key features and environments, Square Enix clarified that progress in the demo will not carry over to the finished product—a logical decision given the gap before the game’s official launch.

Despite this limitation, gamers are encouraged to download the demo to sample the gameplay and witness the HD-2D visuals, which perform impressively on the Nintendo Switch 2 hardware. The title is part of a broader push by Square Enix to bring innovative, visually distinct games to the next generation of consoles, as seen in other recent announcements during the Nintendo Direct.

With its release set across major platforms and backed by a pedigree of artistic excellence, The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales is positioned as one of the most anticipated releases of 2026 for action-adventure fans. For those eager to see more, the new trailer showcased during the Nintendo Direct is now available, providing an expansive look at gameplay, environments, and the game’s uniquely crafted world.

Be sure to visit the Nintendo eShop to access the demo and keep up to date with further announcements from Square Enix as the release date approaches.