Highlights
The cult classic RPG Gothic 2 is getting ported to the Nintendo Switch, including the Night of the Raven expansion, with improved lighting and graphics.
The Switch port of Gothic 2 is a remastered version that includes bug fixes, performance improvements, and complete controller support. It will be priced at $29.99 and will be available in physical form, with the option to pre-order a collector's bundle.
Gothic 2, the cult classic RPG, is finally making its way to the Nintendo Switch over 20 years after its original release. The announcement of its debut on Nintendo's hybrid console came just a week after the eShop release of the Gothic Switch port.
Originally released in late 2002 in Germany, the English version of Gothic 2 was not available until the following summer. Despite this delay, the game slowly gained popularity and became known for its immersive combat, leveling mechanics, and meticulously crafted map. As a result, Gothic 2 is still widely regarded as one of the greatest open-world games ever created.
Scheduled to release on November 29, the first-ever port of Gothic 2 for the Switch will arrive a month after the RPG's 20th anniversary in North America. Renamed as Gothic 2 Complete Classic, this version will also include the Night of the Raven expansion from 2003. The port's reveal trailer showcases improved lighting compared to the original game, but it remains uncertain whether these enhanced visuals will make their way to Nintendo's console. Although the Gothic Classic announcement promo hinted at similar enhancements, the release trailer clarifies that the upgraded graphics will only be available for PC at a later date.
While labeled as a port, the Switch version of the first game was more of a remaster, as it included bug fixes, performance improvements, and even new dialogue. The announcement trailer for Gothic 2 Complete Classic does not mention these enhancements, besides suggesting better graphics. However, the RPG's release on the Switch already implies full controller support. The first Gothic port was successful in this aspect, even utilizing the Joy-Con and Pro Controller's gyroscopes, enabling players to attack by swinging their gamepads as an alternative to pressing buttons.
The Switch version of the sequel, like Gothic Classic, will have a price of $29.99 and will be available in a physical format through the THQ Nordic Store. Additionally, the publisher has introduced a collector's bundle that includes a physical copy of Gothic 2 Complete Classic and a wallet featuring The Sleeper insignia from the original game. This set can be pre-ordered for $44.99 on the company's website and is limited to 999 units.
The release of Gothic 2 on the Switch may generate more interest in Alkimia Interactive's Gothic remake, which has been actively developed since early 2020. The Barcelona-based studio recently announced that their reimagining of the 2001 game, powered by Unreal Engine 5, is set to be released in 2024.
Gothic 2 Complete Classic launches November 29 for Switch.
Source: THQ Nordic, THQ Nordic/YouTube