Todd Howard has struck again. In news that should surprise absolutely no one at this point, Bethesda has shadow dropped The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Anniversary Edition for the Nintendo Switch 2 today. Yes, the game that’s been released more times than some people have updated their passwords has found yet another home and honestly, I can’t even be mad about it. This is likely to be a great upgrade over the original Switch version.
What’s Included in the Skyrim Anniversary Edition for Switch 2?
The Anniversary Edition brings the complete Skyrim experience to Nintendo’s latest console, packing in everything adventurers need to lose hundreds of hours in Tamriel. Here’s what you get:
- Base game: The full Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim experience
- Three major expansions: Dawnguard, Dragonborn, and Hearthfire
- Hundreds of Creation Club items: New quests, weapons, armor, spells, and dungeons that significantly expand the already massive game
Three Ways to Purchase
Bethesda has made the transition as smooth as possible, offering flexible purchase options depending on your Skyrim ownership history:
- New to Skyrim on Nintendo Switch? Purchase the full Anniversary Edition on Nintendo Switch 2 for $59.99
- Own the original Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim on Nintendo Switch? Upgrade to the Anniversary Edition on Nintendo Switch 2 for just $19.99
- Already own Skyrim Anniversary Edition on Nintendo Switch? Download the Switch 2 version completely free
All versions are available exclusively as digital downloads.
Enhanced Performance for Nintendo’s New Hardware
The Switch 2 version isn’t just a straight port—Bethesda has optimized the game to take advantage of the new console’s capabilities:
- Enhanced resolution: utilizing DLSS anti-aliasing for sharper visuals
- Improved load times: Say goodbye to reading loading screen tips for the hundredth time
- Optimized performance: Smoother gameplay throughout your adventure but no mention of 60fps
- Mouse control support: Fresh ways to navigate menus and aim your arrows and spells
- Motion controls: Get physical and immerse yourself by swinging your Joy-Con 2’s during combat
- Amiibo support: Tap compatible amiibo for in-game bonuses
Exclusive Nintendo Content
The game will continue to include the exclusive Legend of Zelda-themed content that launched with game on the original Nintendo Switch:
- Master Sword: The legendary blade
- Hylian Shield: Link’s iconic defense
- Champion’s Tunic: Gear fit for a hero
Players can hunt down these items by exploring the Throat of the World.
Looking Ahead to Elder Scrolls VI
As Skyrim continues its conquest of every gaming platform imaginable, fans can’t help but wonder about The Elder Scrolls VI. While Bethesda confirmed the next mainline entry years ago, the wait continues as the studio focuses on other projects. If history is any indication, by the time Elder Scrolls VI finally releases, Skyrim will probably be available via neural implants.
Until then, there’s no better way to wait than by exploring Skyrim one more time—this time in the palm of your hands with Nintendo’s upgraded hardware. Whether you’re a veteran Dragonborn or taking your first steps into Tamriel, the Anniversary Edition on Switch 2 offers the definitive portable way to hear “until I took an arrow in the knee” for the ten-thousandth time.
