The wait for Elden Ring fans eager to explore the Lands Between on the Nintendo Switch 2 continues, but recent developments confirm the project remains firmly in development. Despite an initial target of 2025, FromSoftware has announced a delay to 2026 for the release of Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition, citing the need for further performance optimization. This news comes as gameplay footage of the highly anticipated port has surfaced, offering a first look at the game running on Nintendo’s next-generation console.
The announcement of Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition and a new, exclusive title, The Duskbloods, generated significant excitement among Nintendo Switch 2 owners in April 2025. However, updates have been scarce since then. Confirmation that both titles are still slated for a 2026 release came through Kadokawa Corporation’s (FromSoftware’s parent company) Q3 2025/26 Earnings Report, as reported by VGC. While specific release dates remain unconfirmed, the report indicates continued progress on both projects. The Nintendo Switch 2 is quickly becoming a destination for ports of graphically demanding titles previously unavailable on the original Switch.
First Look at Elden Ring on the Nintendo Switch 2
A recent gameplay demonstration provided to select media outlets has offered a glimpse into how Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition is shaping up on the Switch 2. Gamespot published a nine-minute video showcasing gameplay in the Limgrave region, and providing a first look at one of the two new character classes added to this version of the game.
Early impressions suggest the game runs smoothly in handheld mode. However, a preview published by Polygon highlights that achieving a consistent 60 frames per second on the Switch 2 appears unlikely. Polygon’s Giovanni Colantonio estimates the demo ran between 30 and 40 frames per second, with the most noticeable performance drops occurring during horseback riding in rainy conditions. Polygon’s preview details these observations, noting that while the port is playable, it requires further refinement.
Addressing Performance Concerns
FromSoftware acknowledged the need for these adjustments in a post on X (formerly Twitter), apologizing to fans for the delay. The studio stated that the extra development time will be dedicated to “performance adjustments” to ensure a polished experience on the Nintendo Switch 2. This decision follows feedback from hands-on previews at Gamescom in August 2025, which reported frame rate drops and graphical hiccups during gameplay. The Nintendo Switch 2 launched with titles like Split Fiction and Cyberpunk 2077, demonstrating its capability to handle demanding games, and the recent release of Star Wars Outlaws further showcased the console’s potential. Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition will need to reach a similar level of optimization to deliver a satisfying experience.
What to Expect in Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition
Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition will include the critically acclaimed base game, as well as the expansive Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. The addition of new jobs promises to offer players fresh ways to approach the challenging combat and exploration that define the Elden Ring experience. The original Elden Ring, released in 2022, garnered widespread praise for its open-world design, intricate lore, and demanding gameplay. The game won numerous Game of the Year awards and has sold over 20 million copies worldwide, according to FromSoftware’s official reports. FromSoftware’s press release initially announced the Switch 2 port in 2025.
The Nintendo Switch 2 version is being developed alongside The Duskbloods, a new IP exclusive to the platform. Kadokawa confirmed that sales responsibilities for The Duskbloods will be divided regionally with Nintendo, indicating a close collaborative effort between the two companies. While details about The Duskbloods remain scarce, its exclusive nature underscores Nintendo’s commitment to securing compelling content for its new console.
The Road Ahead for FromSoftware on Switch 2
Despite the delay, the continued commitment to both Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition and The Duskbloods suggests a significant 2026 for FromSoftware on the Nintendo Switch 2. The studio’s dedication to delivering a high-quality experience, even if it requires additional development time, is a positive sign for fans. The success of these ports will be crucial in establishing the Nintendo Switch 2 as a viable platform for major third-party titles. The console’s ability to attract these kinds of releases will be a key factor in its long-term success.
The ongoing development of Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition highlights the challenges of porting a graphically intensive game to a handheld console. Balancing visual fidelity with performance is a delicate process, and FromSoftware appears to be prioritizing a smooth and enjoyable experience for Switch 2 players. The studio’s willingness to delay the release demonstrates a commitment to meeting those standards.
As of March 12, 2026, no firm release date has been set for Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition. However, Kadokawa’s recent earnings report confirms that both it and The Duskbloods remain on track for a 2026 launch. Further updates are expected during future Nintendo Direct presentations. Fans can stay informed by following official announcements from FromSoftware and Nintendo.
What are your thoughts on the delay? Are you excited to experience the Lands Between on the Nintendo Switch 2? Share your comments below and let us know!
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