Switch 2 Editions Announced: Smash Bros. Ultimate Still Left Out

The gaming landscape is abuzz following the latest Nintendo Direct, which showcased a wave of 'Switch 2 Editions' for a handful of prominent titles. While this signals Nintendo's continued commitment to leveraging its established franchises on new hardware, it also brings a significant question to the forefront: why is Super Smash Bros. Ultimate still seemingly left behind?

As of today, the fighting game juggernaut remains without any announced Switch 2-related update, a fact that has persisted since its initial release. This is particularly noteworthy given that Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the third best-selling game on the original Nintendo Switch, a fact that makes its exclusion from the list of games receiving 'free updates for select Nintendo Switch games' on Nintendo's official website all the more puzzling. The silence surrounding a potential Switch 2 version, especially after nearly five years since its final update with Sora's reveal, has led many to believe the franchise is currently dormant on the platform.

Enhanced Editions Arrive for Select Titles

Despite the Smash Bros. omission, Nintendo has indeed confirmed Switch 2 upgrades for other major games. Six titles are set to receive the 'Switch 2 Edition' treatment, a mix of first-party and third-party offerings. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity Definitive Edition is leading the charge, promising all Expansion Pass DLC, improved visuals and frame rates, more enemies on screen, and a new 'Calamity Mode.' Although branded as 'Definitive Edition,' Nintendo is explicitly calling it an 'enhanced Nintendo Switch 2 version.'

Perhaps more surprisingly, Pikmin 4 is also getting an upgrade, set to include voice commands for the trusty canine Oatchi and a new 'Dandori Academy' mode on November 12. Rounding out the first-party announcements is Xenoblade Chronicles 3, which will also receive the Switch 2 Edition treatment, though specific enhancements have not yet been detailed.

Fan Frustration and Third-Party Support

The lack of any Smash Bros. Ultimate news has predictably ignited discussion within the fan community. Many expected a Switch 2 version or at least a significant update, given the game's immense popularity and sales figures. The announcement of Switch 2 Editions for other games only amplifies this frustration, with some fans questioning Nintendo's priorities. This move towards enhanced editions, rather than full sequels, is a growing trend, as seen with other titles like Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, which is receiving multiple physical editions for various consoles, including a Switch 2 version slated for December 2025. Angry Video Game Nerd 8-bit is also securing a Switch release date and physical edition, and Mouse: P.I. For Hire will also feature its game on-cartridge for the Switch 2.

What's Next

While the future of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on Switch 2 remains uncertain, the confirmed enhanced editions and the ongoing trend of third-party support suggest a busy period ahead for the platform. Players can anticipate more details on specific enhancements and release windows for these upgraded titles as the Switch 2's launch approaches.