Zelda: Breath of the Wild Switch 2 Edition Excludes DLC

Amid ongoing confusion and frustration from fans about the pricing of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its games, particularly in the United States, a new detail has emerged that might catch many off guard. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild's edition for the Nintendo Switch 2 does not include the Expansion Pass, requiring an additional $20 purchase for the DLC if you don't already own it.

Since the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2's games and their pricing last week, confusion has been rampant. If you already own The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on the original Nintendo Switch, you can seamlessly play it on the Nintendo Switch 2, including the DLC if you've previously purchased it.

However, there's a Nintendo Switch 2 Enhanced Edition of Breath of the Wild, which boasts improved visuals, enhanced performance, achievements, and support for the new "Zelda Notes" service within the Nintendo Switch Online app. If you own the original game on the Switch, you can upgrade to these features for an additional $10.

For those looking to purchase the game for the first time on the Nintendo Switch 2, the Enhanced Edition is priced at $70, $10 more than the original retail price. However, this edition does not include the Expansion Pass, meaning an extra $20 is needed to access the full experience, totaling $90 for the complete Breath of the Wild experience on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Nintendo clarified this to IGN, stating, "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition does not include The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Expansion Pass DLC. That DLC is available as a separate purchase."

While some might see this as equitable, considering it aligns with what existing owners have paid plus the upgrade cost, it's notable that other gaming companies often reduce prices on older games or bundle DLC with enhanced editions for new systems. Paying $90 for an eight-year-old game that debuted on the Wii U feels steep, especially when compared to other recent pricing like Mario Kart World at $80 and the Nintendo Switch 2's potential price of $450 or more, influenced by tariffs.

Though it might not impact those who already own the game, for those waiting to experience Breath of the Wild and its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, on the new system, the cost of the highly praised Expansion Pass should be considered.