Square Enix is finally confirming details about the Switch and Switch 2 versions of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake and unfortunately, the news isn’t exactly great: Square Enix has stated it will not be providing any update path, free or paid, between the different console releases, effectively treating each like its own thing.
First spotted by Wario64, Square confirmed the news in a FAQ posted to the official Japanese Dragon Quest site. The exact copy on the page reads, “No, there is no upgrade path currently available or planned. Please buy your copy for whichever system you would like to play it on.” It also clarifies that the performance of Switch version of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake will be capped on the Switch 2, meaning that if you want the (likely small) graphical edge, you’re going to have to buy the newest version of the title.
The news has understandably upset a contingent of fans due to concerns and reservations surrounding Switch 2 key cards. The Switch 2 version of the Dragon Quest remakes comes on one of these game key cards, which have proven to be controversial since their widespread adoption on the new system, since they don’t technically hold any game data on them. Instead, they basically grant a one-time permission to then download the game digitally. The Switch version comes on a traditional cartridge with the game files on it.