Nintendo and Monolith Soft have released an overview trailer for Xenoblade Chronicles 2 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, confirming graphical upgrades, a new Merc Assault mode, and the addition of MOMO as a rare Blade ahead of its digital launch on July 30.
Players preparing to return to the sea of clouds will find significant technical and gameplay enhancements when publisher Nintendo and developer Monolith Soft roll out the revamped version. The updated release brings the massive RPG onto current hardware with major performance boosts, new playable characters, and alternate costume designs for key figures in the cast.
Pyra and Mythra New Outfits
Lost in a sea of clouds, entire civilizations rest on the backs of Titans. As the giant beasts march toward death, the last hope is a scavenger named Rex—and Pyra, a living weapon known as a Blade. Command a group of Blades and lead them to countless strategic victories as you search for the fabled paradise Pyra calls home. As was first announced in last month’s Nintendo Direct, Pyra and Mythra are both getting new outfits.
TV Mode 4K Resolution and 60fps
The upgraded version targets smoother gameplay and sharper image fidelity across both television and portable play. The Switch 2 version runs at 4K resolution and 60fps in TV mode, while handheld play targets 1080p at 60fps. Cutscenes throughout the adventure also benefit from improved image quality, sharper detail, and smoother performance compared to the original release.
Existing owners of the original Nintendo Switch version will be able to purchase an upgrade pack to access the enhanced visuals, new gameplay mode and additional content without buying the game again. The digital edition launches on July 30, while the physical release follows on October 1. The game is also adding some new content, and releases on the eShop as both a full release and a $20 AUD upgrade.
Merc Assault Mode
Beyond visual enhancements, the Switch 2 revamp introduces fresh mechanics designed to alter combat strategy. One of the biggest additions is Merc Assault, a new gameplay mode that allows players to control up to six Blades directly during combat. Players can choose up to six Blades to send out on a mission, and in battle, you can change which one you control at any time. This introduces a new style of real-time battles not found in the original release.
This mode also serves a direct cosmetic purpose. The new outfits for Pyra and Mythra can be obtained as rewards for Merc Assault. Once acquired, you can switch between these and the original outfits at any time. Customize the look of Pyra and Mythra with new equipment designs exclusive to this Nintendo Switch 2 Edition game, with the alternate costumes appearing throughout both gameplay and cinematics.
Momo as a Rare Blade
The character roster expands with the addition of a brand-new rare Blade. Momo has been revealed as a brand new Blade, complete with a new quest for you to take on. Momo is actually a robot from Monolith Soft’s pre-Xenoblade game series, Xenosaga. The 14-year old joins KOS-MOS and T-elos as reference to the prior form of Xeno- from Monolith Soft.
Momo can swap between two forms to change her appearance and elemental affinity (light and dark). With digital availability arriving on July 30 and physical copies scheduled for October 1, players have a structured timeline to experience the revamped journey across the Titans.
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