Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition comes to Nintendo Switch 2

Square Enix has announced that Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition will come to Nintendo Switch 2 on September 24, 2026. This will be an even more expanded version of Dragon Quest XI S, which originally released on Nintendo Switch in 2019. The franchise recently celebrated its 40th anniversary, and there is plenty for new fans to dive into.

The history of Dragon Quest XI

Dragon Quest XI originally launched in Japan in 2017 for Nintendo 3DS and PlayStation 4. The definitive edition, Dragon Quest XI S, was released in 2019. That version added several improvements, including English and Japanese voice acting, an updated 2D mode, and orchestral music. The definitive edition also introduced quality-of-life upgrades such as ultra-fast battle speed. Dragon Quest XI S was initially a Nintendo Switch exclusive, but later came to PC, PS4, and Xbox One.

Upcoming release on Switch 2

It has been confirmed that Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition will be released on Nintendo Switch 2. This gives both new and returning fans a chance to experience an enhanced version of the game. The price for the Nintendo Switch 2 edition is $39.99, and pre-orders are currently available through the Nintendo eShop and Square Enix's official store.

No upgrade path for existing owners

One important note concerns the game's upgrade options. For players who already own Dragon Quest XI S on the original Nintendo Switch, there is currently no upgrade path available. The game's official eShop page states that there are no plans to offer an upgrade pack at this time, which may disappoint current owners. In addition, save data will not transfer between the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 editions.

Future developments in the franchise

During the Dragon Quest franchise's 40th anniversary, more announcements were made. One of the most notable was that Dragon Quest 12 (now subtitled Beyond Dreams) has restarted development since its first reveal in 2021. The project, which was previously aiming for a darker tone, is returning to a more traditional brighter look.

In addition, a new game in the Dragon Quest Monsters series was announced. Titled Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World, this eighth main entry will be available on PC, PS5, Nintendo Switch 1 and 2, and Xbox Series X/S.

With these announcements, the Dragon Quest franchise remains relevant and appealing to both longtime and new fans. The hope is that the quality that defines these games will continue in Square Enix's future releases.