You can upgrade Minecraft from Nintendo Switch to Switch 2 between October 27, 2026, at 9 AM PT and January 31, 2027, at 9 AM PT. Existing digital owners can get the Standard Edition for free in most regions, while physical owners can upgrade to the digital Ultimate Collection at a discount.
What Does Minecraft on Switch 2 Include?
Minecraft on Switch 2 features Vibrant Visuals, which adds directional lighting, volumetric fog, and dynamic shadows. Players can also access Marketplace content that supports Vibrant Visuals.
All editions include the Nintendo-exclusive Super Mario Mash-Up Pack, updated with Vibrant Visuals. The pack features 15 music tracks and 40 player skins inspired by the Super Mario series.
Minecraft Switch 2 Upgrade Dates
The upgrade offers are available from October 27, 2026, at 9 AM PT, until January 31, 2027, at 9 AM PT. Existing owners should complete their upgrade before the offer expires.
How to Upgrade Minecraft Switch to Switch 2
The upgrade process depends on whether you own a digital or physical copy of Minecraft on the original Nintendo Switch.
Digital Copy
If you purchased Minecraft digitally, you can choose between these options:
- Standard Edition: Upgrade for free in most regions.
- Deluxe Collection or Ultimate Collection: Get a discounted upgrade through the Nintendo eShop.
The Deluxe and Ultimate Collections include additional content, such as popular add-ons and Minecoins. Check the Nintendo eShop for the available upgrade options in your region.
Physical Copy
Physical copy owners can upgrade by launching Minecraft for Nintendo Switch on their Switch 2 during the offer period.
An in-game message will invite you to upgrade to the digital Ultimate Collection at a discount. Follow the link provided in that message to access the offer.
Unlike digital owners, physical copy owners cannot claim the free Standard Edition upgrade. Their discounted upgrade option is the digital Ultimate Collection.
Can You Transfer Your Minecraft Worlds?
Yes, you can carry over your existing Nintendo Switch worlds to Switch 2 and continue playing from where you left off. However, the conditions for transferring worlds may apply, so check the official Minecraft announcement before starting the process.
Which Minecraft Switch 2 Edition Should You Choose?
Your best option depends on whether you want the standard game or additional content.
| Edition | Best for | Upgrade cost for existing owners |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Edition | Players who want the base game | Free in most regions for digital owners |
| Deluxe Collection | Players who want additional content | Discounted |
| Ultimate Collection | Players who want the most content | Discounted |
Digital owners who only want the Switch 2 version can choose the free Standard Edition upgrade where available. Those interested in additional add-ons and Minecoins can consider the discounted collections. Physical owners must choose the discounted digital Ultimate Collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Minecraft Switch 2 upgrade free?
The Standard Edition upgrade is free for digital owners in most regions. Deluxe and Ultimate Collection upgrades are discounted instead.
Can I upgrade a physical copy of Minecraft to Switch 2?
Yes. Launch the original Switch version on your Switch 2 during the offer period and follow the in-game message to upgrade to the discounted digital Ultimate Collection.
When does the Minecraft Switch 2 upgrade offer end?
The offer ends on January 31, 2027, at 9 AM PT. Complete the upgrade before that deadline to use the available offer.
