Elden Ring’s Nintendo Switch 2 ‘Tarnished Edition’ Leaks on Amazon with Controversial Pricing and Format
A latest Amazon listing in the United States has revealed the upcoming arrival of Elden Ring on the Nintendo Switch 2, though the details of the release are already sparking significant backlash from the gaming community. The listing, which features a special Tarnished Edition, suggests that an official release date may be announced soon, but not every detail is being welcomed by fans.
The most immediate point of contention is the cost. According to pre-order pages on Amazon, the game is priced at $80. This premium pricing has already been described as unappealing to many potential buyers, marking a steep entry point for the acclaimed title on Nintendo’s next-generation hardware.
A ‘Physical’ Release That Requires a Download
Beyond the price tag, the “Tarnished Edition” has drawn sharp criticism from collectors due to its distribution method. Early reports indicate that the physical version of the game includes a Game-Key Card rather than the full game on the cartridge. This means that despite purchasing a physical box, players will still be required to download the game data from the internet to play.
This move is particularly frustrating for enthusiasts who value physical media for its permanence and collectibility. As noted by some industry observers, the combination of a high price point and a “physical” release that essentially functions as a digital code is unlikely to satisfy the core collector community.
Originally released on February 25, 2022, Elden Ring was developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco. The action RPG has since become one of the most critically acclaimed titles in recent years, praised for its expansive open world and intricate gameplay. The transition to the Nintendo Switch 2 represents a significant expansion of the game’s accessibility, though the current leak suggests that the transition may arrive with a premium cost and a shift in how physical games are delivered.
