Nintendo announced during the Nintendo Direct 6.9.2026 broadcast on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, that Xenoblade Genesis, a brand-new entry in the Xenoblade series, will launch in 2027. Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 will also release within 2026. (Note: This article is based on information released in Japan. Terms not yet revealed in English-speaking regions has been translated unofficially.)
A Brand-New Entry in the Series, Xenoblade Genesis, Has Been Announced!
The game takes place in Anshar, a world featuring six suns. Amidst endless conflicts among diverse nations, the Vesselai—those who can freely manipulate Anima, the source of all existence, and wield it as technique—serve as the central figures in the conflict.
The protagonist is Eleanor, a young girl who arrives at the Vesselai academy, Leukos. Granted a stone that amplifies Vesselai power known as the Anima crystone, she weaves her story while meeting various people during her academy life.
As with previous entries in the series, Monolith Soft's Tetsuya Takahashi serves as executive director. The music features main composer Yasunori Mitsuda (@YasunoriMitsuda), along with composers Mariam Abounnasr (@MariamAbounnasr) and Manami Kiyota (@manamikiyota). The choir ANÚNA (@Anuna_Choir) also participates. Character designs are co-handled by Mai Yoneyama (@yoneyamai) and PALOW. (@PALOW_).
Only the prologue section was revealed, and further details will arrive in future updates.
Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of Three Xenoblade Series Titles Confirmed for Release!
The Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 will launch sequentially throughout 2026! Pre-orders have already begun. The release schedule for each title is as follows:
- Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition Nintendo Switch 2 Edition: The Upgrade Pass and digital version are available now starting Wednesday, June 10, 2026 / The physical version releases on Thursday, July 30, 2026
- Xenoblade Chronicles 2 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition: The Upgrade Pass and digital version will be available on Thursday, July 30, 2026 / The physical version releases on Thursday, October 1, 2026
- Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition: The Upgrade Pass, digital version, and physical version will all release on Thursday, December 3, 2026
Features of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
In Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, developers added new elements alongside improvements to graphics and frame rates. Features include the following:
- Supports 4K resolution in TV mode and 1080p in Handheld mode
- Improved frame rates for smoother camera movement
- A new vehicle, the Ether Jet, adds speedy exploration to vast fields
- Race games utilizing the Ether Jet, such as Score Attack and Battle Race, are now included
- New character equipment designs tailored for the Ether Jet
- Full voice acting for Heart-to-Hearts
- Amiibo support, allowing players to receive experience points and item bonuses up to three times a day
Xenoblade Chronicles 2 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will support 4K/60fps in TV mode and 1080p/60fps in Handheld mode, and the addition of new modes and new characters is also planned.
Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition Icon Elements Are Now Available
Icon elements for Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition have arrived as Platinum Point rewards for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. The availability period is from Wednesday, June 10, 2026, to Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
Please see Nintendo Topics (JP) for more details.
Xenoblade Genesis, a new beginning for the series, is coming exclusively to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027. #NintendoDirect pic.twitter.com/9AbY81aEfo
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) June 9, 2026
