We've just had confirmation of a highly anticipated, and frankly, absolutely critical upgrade: Hollow Knight is getting a free, beefed-up edition for the Nintendo Switch 2, available today, February 5, 2026. This isn't just a minor patch; it's a monumental quality-of-life buff that fans have been dreaming about since the original Switch's launch.
For those of us who've clocked hundreds of hours navigating the perilous depths of Hallownest, the memory of occasional frame drops and resolution hitches on the original Switch is a familiar pain point. While we always appreciated the game's portability, the hardware limitations sometimes dulled the otherwise pristine combat and breathtaking art direction. Team Cherry, ever the player-friendly developer, has listened, and they've delivered a significant performance boost that promises to make the already phenomenal Metroidvania a truly buttery-smooth experience on the new hardware.
Our analysis indicates this free upgrade isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about elevating an already near-perfect game to its optimal technical state. This move sets a high bar for other developers bringing their beloved titles to the Switch 2, proving that consumer-friendly next-gen enhancements are not only possible but expected.
Key Upgrade Details:
- Game: Hollow Knight
- Platform: Nintendo Switch 2 (Upgrade from original Switch version)
- Availability: Today, February 5, 2026
- Method: Free upgrade pack via the eShop
- Improvements: Enhanced Resolution & Improved Framerate
What does this mean for us, the players? It means combat encounters against the Mantis Lords or the Radiance will be more fluid, platforming sections through Deepnest will be less prone to input lag, and the intricate, hand-drawn environments will pop with unprecedented clarity. This isn't just a cosmetic change; it fundamentally enhances the gameplay loop, allowing for more precise movement and more reactive parries and dodges. It's the difference between a good gaming experience and a truly sublime one.
We've seen countless games charge a premium for "next-gen" editions that offer minimal improvements. Team Cherry's decision to offer this as a completely free upgrade is a testament to their commitment to their player base and a refreshing departure from industry trends. This isn't just a good business decision; it's a move that solidifies player trust and goodwill. For veterans like CosmicTornado, who's eyeing their seventh playthrough, this is the ultimate excuse to dive back in, experiencing Hallownest as it was truly meant to be seen and played.
With Silksong still on the horizon, this upgrade effectively future-proofs the original Hollow Knight, ensuring it remains a benchmark title on the Nintendo Switch 2 for years to come. Our verdict? Go download this pack immediately. You owe it to yourself to experience Hallownest in its definitive, rock-solid form.