Square Enix Brings Octopath Traveler Duo to Switch 2 Without Save Transfers or Upgrade Path

Square Enix has surprised fans by announcing that both Octopath Traveler and Octopath Traveler II are coming to Nintendo Switch 2, but the move comes with a frustrating catch for existing owners. According to Game Informer, the two HD-2D RPGs will launch on Switch 2 on October 1, with improved frame rates and resolutions, available separately both digitally and physically, as well as in a digital-only bundle. The release coincides with the series' eighth anniversary, as reported by RPG Site.

2 sources

RPG SiteOctopath Traveler and Octopath Traveler II are coming to Switch 2 today digitallyGame InformerThe First Two Octopath Traveler Games Are Coming To Switch 2 In October, But There's No Upgrade Path Or Save Data Transfer

However, the fine print buried in the announcement is drawing criticism. Game Informer noted that "reading the fine print of the announcement trailer states that if you own the original Switch versions of these HD-2D RPGs, Square Enix is not offering an upgrade path for the Switch 2 editions. Furthermore, save data is not compatible between the two versions, meaning you cannot transfer a Switch save." RPG Site confirmed the same, stating plainly that "there is no upgrade path or save transfer for Octopath 1 and 2 on Switch 1 to Switch 2."

The regional release timing is slightly uneven. While Western audiences get both games on October 1, players in Japan can download digital versions immediately. RPG Site reported that "Octopath Traveler and Octopath Traveler II are coming to Switch 2 today in Japan, October 1 in the West." Gameloop.gg similarly characterized it as a surprise digital launch today, though physical copies appear to arrive in October everywhere.

gameloop.ggOctopath Traveler Switch 2 Versions Launch Today for Both HD-2D RPGs

Vooks summed up the sentiment of many longtime fans with a weary headline: "Not this again." The response reflects growing frustration with Nintendo and Square Enix over cross-generation save and upgrade policies. Players who invested dozens of hours in the original Switch versions will have to start from scratch if they want the technical enhancements on Switch 2.

VooksOctopath Traveler & Octopath Traveler II head to Switch 2 with no upgrade path

The bundle option offers some consolation for new buyers. Videogamesplus.ca listed an Asian import bundle that includes both games with multi-language support, describing it as featuring "eight travelers, eight adventures, and eight roles to play." Nettosgameroom.com added that individual physical and digital purchases are also available, so players can pick up just the sequel or the original without being forced into the bundle.

2 sources

nettosgameroom.comOctopath Traveler and Octopath Traveler 2 Coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on October 1stvideogamesplus.caOctopath Traveler + Octopath Traveler II Bundle (Asian Import) — Product Listing