Wild Hearts S Expands Multiplayer on Nintendo Switch 2: Developers Discuss Platform Vision and Sequel Hopes

Wild Hearts S Expands Multiplayer on Nintendo Switch 2: Developers Discuss Platform Vision and Sequel Hopes Wild Hearts S, the acclaimed action-adventure title developed by Koei Tecmo, is making headlines again following its recent launch on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Known for its innovative "Karakuri" crafting mechanics and immersive combat, Wild Hearts S has built a loyal fanbase since its original release.

With the debut on Nintendo's latest hardware, the development team sat down with leading Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu to share insight on both game enhancements for Nintendo Switch 2 and their vision for the series moving forward. One of the most significant updates to Wild Hearts S on Nintendo Switch 2 is an expanded multiplayer mode that now accommodates four players, a step up from the original version's limit of three.

Director Takuto Edagawa explained that the new hardware's capabilities, particularly features like GameChat, encouraged the team to realize their initial vision of a more inclusive multiplayer experience.

"The Nintendo Switch 2 fosters an environment where everyone can enjoy playing together, which aligns perfectly with our design goals," Edagawa communicated.

He clarified that while a four-player co-op was originally planned, playtesting revealed it could make the game too easy due to the synergy between four players utilizing the Karakuri system.

As a result, the team scaled back to three in the initial release.

However, feedback from the community made it clear that expanding to four players was highly anticipated, and now, thanks to the Switch 2's improved platform support, groups of four can finally team up and tackle hunts together. Famitsu also questioned the studio on whether they considered introducing new content, such as additional monsters or weapon types, for the Nintendo Switch 2 edition.

Edagawa responded that while the idea was discussed internally, the team decided against exclusive new content to maintain parity with the original version.

"If we added substantial new features solely to Wild Hearts S on Nintendo Switch 2, it would create a definitive version that might overshadow the original.

We wanted new and returning players alike to access the same core experience, ensuring fairness across the community," Edagawa said. Looking ahead, Famitsu inquired about the possibility of a sequel if the Nintendo Switch 2 release enjoys robust success.

Producer Kotaro Hirata shared that the team is passionate about the title and very interested in creating more within the Wild Hearts universe.

"We absolutely want to continue developing the series—it’s a project filled with our affection and aspirations," Hirata remarked.

Edagawa echoed these sentiments, stating that the team sees "a great deal of untapped potential" and actively considered sequel concepts during development. Wild Hearts S is now available globally on the Nintendo Switch 2 via the Nintendo eShop, offering both longtime fans and newcomers a chance to dive into its rich world.

For further updates on Nintendo Switch 2 and major releases, follow our continuing coverage of Nintendo Direct announcements and editorials. Translation credit: Simon Griffin, SatsumaFS, and Philip Proctor for Nintendo Everything.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch 2 Switch Xbox Series X|S Wild Hearts S S Multiplayer developers Wild Hearts Koei Tecmo Famitsu Takuto Edagawa Kotaro Hirata Nintendo Everything Simon Griffin SatsumaFS Philip Proctor