Final Fantasy XIV Online is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 later this year, but there is a significant catch: players will need a separate subscription to play the MMO on Nintendo's new console. The announcement was made by Square Enix CEO Takashi Kiryu at Final Fantasy Fan Fest 2026 in Anaheim.
Kiryu stated, 'Thank you for your patience. It's been a long time coming. We're happy to announce that you'll soon be able to play FFXIV Online on Nintendo Switch 2.' Game director Naoki 'Yoshi P' Yoshida joined Kiryu on stage to demonstrate the game running in handheld mode on a Switch 2 unit.
While specific technical details such as resolution and frame rate were not disclosed, the gameplay appeared smooth and playable. The prospect of playing FFXIV on the go is exciting for many fans, but the subscription requirement is a notable drawback.
Currently, a single FFXIV subscription grants access across PC and PlayStation 5 platforms. However, playing on Nintendo Switch 2 will require an additional subscription. As a small concession, Nintendo Switch Online membership is not required. Additionally, players with an active FFXIV subscription on another platform will receive a 50% discount on the Switch 2 version's subscription.
Yoshi P commented, 'The best part about the Switch version is playing on the go. We hope this gives players more freedom to play the way they want to.'
The game will launch on Switch 2 in August 2026, with a one-month early access period planned beforehand. This early access will be free to play with no subscription required.
