As fans continue to navigate the pricing complexities of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its games, particularly in the U.S., a new cost has emerged that might catch some off guard. The Nintendo Switch 2 edition of *The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild* does not include the Expansion Pass, meaning you'll need to shell out an additional $20 for the DLC if you don't already own it.
To clarify, the recent announcement about the Nintendo Switch 2's games and their pricing has stirred up considerable confusion. If you already own *The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild* on the original Nintendo Switch, you can transfer your game to the Nintendo Switch 2, including any previously purchased DLC, without any issues.
However, there's also a *Nintendo Switch 2 Enhanced Edition* of *Breath of the Wild*, which boasts enhanced visuals and performance, achievements, and integration with the new "Zelda Notes" feature in the Nintendo Switch Online app. If you're an existing owner of *Breath of the Wild* on the Switch, you won't automatically receive these enhancements, but you can purchase an "upgrade pack" for $10 to access them.
For those looking to buy *Breath of the Wild* for the first time on the Nintendo Switch 2, the *Nintendo Switch 2 Enhanced Edition* is available for $70, which is $10 more than the original retail price, effectively covering the cost of the game and the upgrade pack. But remember, this edition does not include the Expansion Pass, adding an extra $20 to the total cost if you want the full experience, bringing it to $90.
Nintendo has confirmed 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 argue that this pricing strategy is equitable, especially considering what existing owners have already invested, it's notable that many other game publishers tend to lower the prices of older games or bundle DLC with enhanced editions for newer systems. Paying $90 for an updated version of a game released in 2017 on the Wii U can feel steep, especially when compared to other recent releases like *Mario Kart World* at $80, and the Nintendo Switch 2 itself, which may cost $450 or more depending on tariffs.
While it's true that many fans may already own *Breath of the Wild*, those holding out for the Nintendo Switch 2 to experience the game and its sequel, *Tears of the Kingdom*, need to consider the additional cost of the Expansion Pass for the full experience.
