Zelda: Breath of the Wild Switch 2 Edition Excludes DLC

As the excitement builds around the Nintendo Switch 2, fans are grappling with the evolving pricing landscape, particularly in the U.S. where costs seem to be in a constant state of flux. A recent revelation adds another layer to these considerations: the Nintendo Switch 2 edition of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild does not include the Expansion Pass. This means that players who wish to enjoy the DLC on the new system will need to shell out an extra $20 if they don't already own it.

To clarify the situation, since last week's announcement about the pricing and features of games for the Nintendo Switch 2, confusion has reigned. If you already own The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on the original Nintendo Switch, you can seamlessly transfer your game to the Nintendo Switch 2, including any previously purchased DLC, without any additional cost.

However, there's a twist for those interested in the Nintendo Switch 2 Enhanced Edition of Breath of the Wild. This version boasts enhanced visuals, improved performance, new achievements, and integration with the "Zelda Notes" service within the Nintendo Switch Online app. Owners of the original game on the Switch won't automatically receive these enhancements but can upgrade for a $10 fee.

For newcomers to the game considering a purchase on the Nintendo Switch 2, the Enhanced Edition is available for $70, a $10 increase over the initial retail price of the original game. However, this does not include the Expansion Pass, which would add another $20 to the total cost, bringing the full Breath of the Wild experience on the Nintendo Switch 2 to $90.

Nintendo confirmed this to IGN, stating: "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition does not include The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Expansion Pass DLC. That DLC is available as a separate purchase."

While some might argue that this pricing model aligns with what existing owners have already paid, plus the cost of an upgrade, it's notable that other gaming publishers often reduce the price of older games or bundle DLC with enhanced editions for newer systems. The $90 price tag for a game released in 2017 on the Wii U feels steep, especially when compared to other recent titles like Mario Kart World, priced at $80, and the Nintendo Switch 2 itself, which may cost $450 or more, depending on tariff adjustments.

Whether this pricing strategy will impact sales remains to be seen, especially given the strong sales performance of Breath of the Wild. However, for those who have been holding off on purchasing the game and its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, until the launch of the new, shinier system, the cost of the Expansion Pass should definitely be factored into their budget.