Octopath Traveler 1 and 2 Are Coming to Switch 2 Without an Upgrade Path
The Octopath Traveler games established Square Enix’s line of “HD-2D” titles, and fans can look forward to a new Switch 2 release featuring the first two entries in the series—with a significant catch. Although Octopath Traveler and its sequel have been available on the original Switch for years, existing owners will have no upgrade option on Switch 2. This means there will be no discounted upgrade or ability to transfer save data.
Both games are lengthy experiences filled with optional detours and challenging quests, making the prospect of starting over unappealing. Their timeless HD-2D visual style also means they continue to look impressive despite their age, so current players may choose to skip the Switch 2 editions.
No Discounted Upgrade for Existing Owners
Numerous Switch games offer upgrade packs for their Switch 2 editions, with some available for free and others costing only a few dollars. The absence of such an option for Octopath Traveler could make the new release difficult to sell to existing fans of the RPG series.
Some people online have described Square Enix’s decision as anti-consumer, as it prevents players from purchasing an inexpensive secondhand copy of Octopath Traveler and then obtaining an upgrade. It also leaves those who previously bought the game, either digitally or physically, without an affordable upgrade path.
Square Enix’s Previous Upgrade Policies
Square Enix has faced criticism in the past for providing no upgrade paths for several of its HD-2D games. Octopath Traveler 0 and the physical editions of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake required players to commit to a single Switch platform, choosing either the last-generation or current-generation version.
Switch 2 Technical Improvements and Release Date
For players experiencing Octopath Traveler 1 and 2 for the first time, the Switch 2 package includes several technical improvements. It will be available in both digital and physical editions, offering improved frame rates and resolutions when it launches on October 1.
