Minecraft Hits Switch 2 In October, Is A Diablo IV Port Next?

When the Switch 2 launched last year, it seemed like a prime opportunity for Microsoft to bring selection of its back catalog to the popular handheld. To date though, it’s been more of a drip than the deluge of games many expected. However, the company has announced it will finally be bringing one of its most popular titles, Minecraft, to the platform, and will likely be porting Diablo IV soon too.

The Switch 2’s more competent hardware opens the door to what Microsoft says will be “vibrant visuals” in Minecraft, comprised of enhanced lighting, shadow effects and other graphical improvements. There will also be content available in the Minecraft Marketplace that will take advantage of the graphics upgrade.

The Super Mario Mash-Up pack, which is exclusive to Nintendo’s consoles, is going to get the “vibrant visuals” treatment, too. This pack makes Minecraft a decidedly Nintendo experience with the inclusion of themed music, game worlds with well known locations such as Peach’s Castle and Delfino Plaza, in addition to unique skins.

Fans who already own the game on the original Switch will be able to obtain an upgrade to the Switch 2 version instead of having to purchase a whole new copy. Microsoft says it will be sharing more details about the upgrade process at a later date; the Switch 2 version will be launching on October 27.


Before Minecraft debuts on the Switch 2, though, players will be able to jump into Diablo IV, according to leaker billbil-kun. The game should lend itself well to the pickup and play experience the console can deliver. It will be launching on September 15 for $69.99, but it’s unknown if it will include the Lord of Hatred DLC. Unfortunately for fans of physical media, the retail box won’t include a Keycard as Microsoft is opting to only provide a code in a box.

With these two games hitting back-to-back, it’s a sign Microsoft might finally be bringing more of its titles to the handheld. Hopefully players can look forward to a regular cadence of releases in the months to come.