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Elden Ring Tarnished Edition Review
Five years after its initial 2021 release, Elden Ring has arrived on a Nintendo console as the Tarnished Edition. Initial worries about the Switch 2's portable hardware handling this open-world epic have been alleviated by FromSoftware's efforts to ensure smooth performance during hands-on testing.
TL;DR
- Elden Ring Tarnished Edition is now available on Nintendo's Switch 2.
- The port offers a surprisingly smooth experience, targeting 30fps with DLSS upscaling.
- Includes all previous updates, the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, new horse skins, and armor.
- Features two new starting classes: Heavy Knight and Idus Knight, with unique gear and stats.
- The Idus Knight's dexterity build is noted as being more accessible for less experienced players.
- Graphical compromises include reduced draw distances and vegetation density for better performance.
- The game looks and feels excellent in both handheld and docked modes.
- Offline mode allows pausing gameplay by putting the Switch 2 to sleep without interruption.
- An active Nintendo Switch Online membership is required for online features.
- The Tarnished Edition is considered a worthwhile version for both new and returning players.