Nintendo Switch 2 RPG upgrades: two Square Enix favourites arrive
Square Enix has brought three role-playing games to Nintendo Switch 2 within a fortnight: Dragon Quest 11S, Octopath Traveler and Octopath Traveler 2. Two are among the strongest RPGs of the past decade, while the original Octopath Traveler is a more uneven, though still worthwhile, adventure.
There is an important catch for existing owners. These releases do not include an upgrade path or save-data transfer, making them difficult to justify if you are satisfied with the versions already in your collection. The two Octopath Traveler ports are also broadly similar to their Nintendo Switch editions, apart from faster loading. Dragon Quest 11S receives the more substantial technical makeover.
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Dragon Quest 11S on Switch 2
The original Switch edition of Dragon Quest 11S was playable but technically compromised. Its low resolution, rough textures and persistent softness could make Erdrea look hazy, even though it never reached the visual discomfort associated with The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
The Switch 2 release is considerably cleaner. Erdrea appears sharper, brighter and more colourful, loading is shorter, and players can select a 60fps performance option. It is slightly surprising that a game approaching a decade old still offers quality and performance modes on Nintendo’s newer console, and the resolution shift remains visible in handheld play.
This is therefore a better proposition for newcomers or returning players who are comfortable buying the game again after a long break. Dragon Quest 11 remains one of the finest RPGs of recent generations: its apparently straightforward story develops in unexpectedly dark directions, its ensemble is among the series’ best, and skill trees plus extensive customisation modernise turn-based combat without abandoning its traditional identity.
Octopath Traveler on Switch 2
The first Octopath Traveler has not changed dramatically in this new version. Its HD-2D presentation already held up well on Switch, but a close comparison reveals extra detail on other platforms and on Switch 2. The difference is subtle; the most noticeable practical improvement is shorter loading.
Square Enix designed the game as a spiritual successor to Final Fantasy 6, much as Bravely Default followed the traditions of Final Fantasy 5. The eight stories vary in quality and take time to converge, although their eventual connection delivers a satisfying classic-RPG payoff. Primrose, a dancer pursuing revenge, makes a stronger impression than Olberic, the melancholy knight.
Character-specific path actions attempt to add context and interaction, but their impact is limited. Combat is the standout feature: challenging turn-based battles, striking pixel-art presentation and a strong emphasis on exploiting enemy weaknesses give the adventure its momentum.
Octopath Traveler 2 on Switch 2
Octopath Traveler 2 follows the same technical pattern as its predecessor. The image is a little clearer, but the improvement is difficult to spot without looking closely and is not a major step beyond the first game’s handheld boost mode.
Loading, however, is substantially faster. Moving from the home screen to the title screen takes just under 20 seconds on Switch 2, compared with just under 40 seconds on the original Switch.
If you have not played it, Octopath Traveler 2 is well worth considering. Its character writing, world-building and combination of combat abilities are significantly more assured than in the first game. Where the original sometimes struggled to recreate the feel of a classic RPG, its sequel delivers that ambition with much greater confidence.
Players planning a dedicated home gaming setup can also explore RETROCADE’s arcade machines, while compact rooms may suit the range of bartop arcades.
Which Switch 2 RPG is worth revisiting?
Dragon Quest 11S has the clearest technical upgrade, particularly for players who value sharper visuals, 60fps performance and reduced loading. Octopath Traveler 2 is the strongest recommendation for anyone yet to experience the series, while the first Octopath Traveler is mainly a purchase for newcomers or devoted fans who want faster loading on Nintendo’s latest hardware.
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