The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition has been officially delayed into 2026, marking a significant shift in the release plans. Developer FromSoftware confirmed that the port, which was originally slated for a 2025 launch, will need additional time to be optimised for the console’s hardware, citing performance adjustments and quality assurances as key reasons for the pushback.
Sneak previews of the game on the Switch 2 had raised some concerns: early demonstrations revealed inconsistent frame rates, graphical hitches, and thermal load issues that could erode the experience expected from a premium open-world title. With the additional development stretch, FromSoftware aims to align the game with the high bar set by previous versions and ensure that the hand-held or hybrid form of the Switch 2 doesn’t compromise the “Lands Between” experience.
This delay carries broader implications for both Nintendo and its partners. The Switch 2 is positioning itself as a major platform for high-profile ports and native titles, and major delays raise questions about the readiness of its ecosystem. The absence of such a marquee title in its launch window could impact consumer expectations, inventory planning, and third-party momentum. For FromSoftware, the delay reflects a strategy of depth-over-speed — the team has chosen to deliver a polished experience rather than rush to market and risk diluting its reputation.
While players may feel disappointed, the decision underscores a growing industry trend: premium open-world games are increasingly hard to adapt across diverse hardware architectures without significant optimisation. For fans of Elden Ring, waiting a little longer could mean fewer compromises — but it also means recalibrating expectations for what the Switch 2 can deliver and when.
