Square Enix has officially clarified details regarding the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 versions of the upcoming Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, delivering news that may disappoint fans. The company confirmed there will be no upgrade path, whether free or paid, between the two console versions. This means each version is considered a separate purchase.
This confirmation comes from an official FAQ posted on the Japanese Dragon Quest website. The FAQ explicitly states, “No, there is no upgrade path currently available or planned. Please buy your copy for whichever system you would like to play it on.” Furthermore, it was noted that the Nintendo Switch version of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake will have its performance capped when played on the Switch 2. For players seeking potentially minor graphical enhancements, purchasing the dedicated Switch 2 version will be necessary.
The decision has caused frustration among a segment of the fan base, particularly due to ongoing concerns about the controversial Switch 2 “game key cards.” The Switch 2 edition of the remakes will be distributed via these key cards, which, unlike traditional cartridges, do not contain the game data itself. Instead, they serve as a one-time activation key for a digital download. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch version will be released on a standard physical cartridge with the game files pre-loaded.
Many discerning fans had hoped for a cross-generation upgrade option, a common practice in the industry that would allow them to purchase the similarly priced Switch version and receive a free or discounted upgrade for the Switch 2. This expectation was further fueled by Square Enix`s own policy for another major remake this year, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, which does offer an upgrade path, though it is not receiving a dedicated Switch 2 release.
Additionally, the FAQ revealed important information regarding save data. While players who have completed the Dragon Quest III remake on Nintendo Switch will be able to transfer their save data to the Switch 2 version of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, there will be no cross-platform save migration between the Switch and Switch 2 versions of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake itself. This means players cannot begin their adventure on a Nintendo Switch and then transfer their progress to a Switch 2 version later, or vice versa.
Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is scheduled for release on October 30, and will be available on Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.