Today, Mojang Studios revealed that Minecraft will launch for Nintendo Switch 2 on October 27, featuring improved performance and an updated version of the console’s exclusive Super Mario Mash-Up Pack.
Minecraft began as an independent sandbox game from Markus “Notch” Persson in 2009 before Mojang launched the full version in 2011, right before Mojang itself was acquired by Microsoft in 2014 for $2.5 billion. Since then, Minecraft has received regular free updates, expanding its biomes, creatures, building blocks, and gameplay systems. More than 15 years after its debut, it remains one of the world’s most-played games.
While many blockbuster games move on to sequels, Minecraft has stayed as a single, evolving platform. Ongoing content updates keep longtime players involved and introduce new generations to the game’s blend of exploration, survival, and creativity. With over 300 million copies sold worldwide, it acts as the best-selling video game ever.
Minecraft launched on Nintendo Switch in 2017, with the cross-platform Bedrock version replacing the original Switch Edition in 2018. The hybrid console quickly became one of the game’s most popular platforms, letting players build and explore both at home and on the go. The Nintendo Switch 2 release allows this community to continue their worlds on new hardware with major visual upgrades.
The Nintendo Switch 2 version features Vibrant Visuals as the default setting, adding enhanced lighting, richer shadows, and improved environmental effects. Supported Minecraft Marketplace content will also benefit from these visual upgrades.
Nintendo’s exclusive Super Mario Mash-Up Pack is getting an update to highlight the new graphics. The pack, only available on Nintendo platforms, transforms Minecraft with a Mario-themed world, remixed interface, music, enemies, and character skins, recreating locations like Peach’s Castle and Delfino Plaza. The updated visuals aim to make these Mushroom Kingdom landmarks more detailed and immersive than before.
Players who already own Minecraft on Nintendo Switch will have access to a digital upgrade path for Nintendo Switch 2. Microsoft also said additional details about the upgrade will be announced at a later date.
