Dragon Quest 11 S Heads to Nintendo Switch 2

Square Enix has officially announced that Dragon Quest 11 S will make its way to the Nintendo Switch 2, with a release date set for September 24, 2026. The confirmation follows recent leaks and a rating classification spotted in Taiwan, so the news aligns with growing anticipation.

This version of the acclaimed RPG largely mirrors the original Switch 1 release, but Square Enix has added two new display options. Players can choose between a resolution mode, which prioritizes visual fidelity, and a performance mode, which focuses on smoother frame rates.

The core experience remains the same. You take on the role of the Luminary, a hunted hero destined to protect the land from destruction. Alongside a quirky band of adventurers, you will engage in classic turn-based battles, explore the sprawling kingdom of Erdrea, forge gear, develop party skills, and customize outfits without affecting stats. The game also lets you ride and attack monsters on the field to earn experience points.

A standout feature is the ability to switch between HD or 16-bit visuals, symphonic or synth music, and English or Japanese audio. New character-focused stories expand the narrative, and you can travel to past Dragon Quest worlds by meeting the mysterious Tockles. These creatures let you visit 2D, 16-bit versions of areas from beloved entries like Dragon Quest 4 and Dragon Quest 8, blending seamlessly with the main game’s retro mode.

Character designs, as always, come from the legendary Akira Toriyama, whose signature style brings the cast to life. Paired with fully voiced dialogue, both allies and enemies feel richly developed. For those seeking a stiffer challenge, the Draconian Quest setting can be activated from the start, and a Photo Mode lets you capture your favorite moments.

A trailer for the Switch 2 version is now available. For more Nintendo Switch 2 coverage, stay tuned.