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The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a single-player adventure available for the original Nintendo Switch in physical and digital formats, and Nintendo lists that version as supported on Switch 2. Before buying, distinguish the base game from its optional Expansion Pass and from the Switch 2 Edition: the latter improves performance and adds features, but it does not include the Expansion Pass.
Which version should you buy?
| Your situation | Option to consider | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| You have a Nintendo Switch and want to play the game. | Original Switch base game, physical or digital. | Choose a format and check the current price and availability in your region. Nintendo lists the original game as supported on Switch 2, too. Nintendo’s game listing |
| You want the base game and extra story and challenge content. | The base-game bundle with the Expansion Pass. | Confirm the bundle is available in your regional store and compare its current price with buying the game and DLC separately. Nintendo’s bundle listing |
| You already own the game and have a Switch 2. | The Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack. | It requires the base game. Nintendo says active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members can access the upgrade pack at no extra cost; check current membership terms and account-region eligibility. Nintendo’s Switch 2 information |
| You want the enhanced version specifically. | Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. | It plays only on Switch 2 and does not include the Expansion Pass. Nintendo’s Switch 2 information |
Prices, stock, and store offerings vary by country and retailer. Check the listing carefully to confirm whether you are buying the original game, a bundle with the Expansion Pass, or the Switch 2 upgrade pack.
What is the original Switch game?
In this single-player adventure, Link wakes after a 100-year slumber and explores Hyrule to recover memories and find resources. Nintendo describes the premise with the line, “No kingdom. No memories.” Nintendo’s official game description
The original game supports TV, tabletop, and handheld play, and Nintendo lists amiibo support. Nintendo notes that the experience may differ on Switch Lite. Backing up save data to the cloud requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership. Nintendo’s game listing
#1 Best Overall
- Discover Hyrule as never before: by making your own path, choices, and consequences
- Ingenuity is the key to survival: find multiple solutions to tons of dynamic puzzles
- Surprises hide around every corner: scavenge weapons, armor, plants, animals, and more
- Live off the land: find weapons and armor, cook food, and brew elixirs
- Utilize special technology: the in-game Sheikah Slate controls, objects and enemies in fun ways
Nintendo also offers a free 44-page Explorer’s Guide as a supplemental resource.
What does the Expansion Pass include?
The Expansion Pass is optional DLC, not part of the standard base game. Nintendo lists two content packs—The Master Trials and The Champions’ Ballad—and three treasure chests. It can be purchased as DLC or in a bundle with the full game, where offered. Nintendo’s Expansion Pass listing Nintendo’s game-and-Expansion Pass bundle
Rank #2
- Enhanced resolution, framerates, and load times optimized for Nintendo Switch 2.
- Explore a massive open-air version of Hyrule with complete freedom.
- Solve physics-based puzzles, survive dynamic weather, and uncover hidden secrets.
- Customize your adventure with weapons, gear, and food you craft yourself.
- Use the ZELDA NOTES app for bonuses, item sharing, and social features.
The Master Trials
This pack adds the Cave of Trials, Master Mode, Hero’s Path, and other content.
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This pack adds a dungeon, story elements about the four Champions and Princess Zelda, challenges, and shrines.
Rank #3
![The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51xVZUUZ1hL._SL160_.jpg)
- Discover Hyrule as never before: by making your own path, choices, and consequences
- Ingenuity is the key to survival: find multiple solutions to tons of dynamic puzzles
- Surprises hide around every corner: scavenge weapons, armor, plants, animals, and more
- Live off the land: find weapons and armor, cook food, and brew elixirs
- Utilize special technology: the in-game Sheikah Slate controls objects and enemies in fun ways
What does the Switch 2 Edition change?
The Switch 2 Edition offers higher resolution, improved frame rates, HDR output, and faster loading than the original Switch version. It also supports Zelda Notes through the Nintendo Switch app. It is a Switch 2 version, not a DLC bundle: the Expansion Pass is separate and requires the full game. Nintendo’s Switch 2 information Nintendo’s Switch 2 FAQ
Upgrade requirements and saves
The upgrade pack requires the original game. Nintendo says active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members can access it at no additional cost. Nintendo also says original Switch save data can be carried over and used in the Switch 2 Edition. The Switch 2 Edition provides a second save slot for starting a separate adventure, but Nintendo warns that a save created in that second slot cannot be transferred back to the original Switch version. Nintendo’s Switch 2 information Nintendo’s Switch 2 FAQ
Rank #4
![The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack - Nintendo Switch 2 [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Y5b1WmCXL._SL160_.jpg)
- Persistent internet and compatible smart device required. Data charges may apply.
- QR Code is a registered trademark of DENSO WAVE INCORPORATED.
Zelda Notes requirements
Zelda Notes requires a compatible smart device and a persistent internet connection; data charges may apply. Nintendo’s Switch 2 information
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- Console: The original Switch game is listed as supported on Switch 2; the Switch 2 Edition itself is playable only on Switch 2.
- Format: The original game is sold in physical and digital formats. Check the product listing so you know which one you are selecting.
- DLC: The Expansion Pass is optional. Confirm it is included if you want its content; it is not included with the Switch 2 Edition.
- Ownership and membership: The Switch 2 upgrade pack needs the base game. No-extra-cost access is tied to an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, subject to current terms and regional eligibility.
- Cloud saves: Cloud backup for the original Switch game requires Nintendo Switch Online. Consider the Switch 2 Edition’s second-slot transfer limitation if you plan to move saves between versions.
Store prices and physical inventory change, and Nintendo’s offers may differ by region. Use your local Nintendo store or retailer listing to confirm the current price and exact edition before checkout.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
