What to know

  • Yes, Silksong released digitally on the original Nintendo Switch 1 on September 4, 2025.
  • A free upgrade to a higher-performance Switch 2 version is also available.
  • Pricing is affordable at ~$19.99 across platforms, with Game Pass access at launch.
  • Physical copies will follow only in early 2026—and only for Switch consoles initially.

Excitement has been building for years, and now Hollow Knight: Silksong has finally arrived. Its launch on the original Nintendo Switch carries big implications for players still rocking the first-gen console. Here’s a quick dive into what its arrival on the original Switch really means—and why this matters to every player holding the older system.

Silksong is available on the original Nintendo Switch

Team Cherry confirmed well before release that Silksong will be supported on the original Nintendo Switch—no need to upgrade to the newer model just to play. That’s a big win for owners of the first-gen console. Confirmation came through Team Cherry marketing and publishing director, Matthew Griffin, who wrote in a post on X:

Team Cherry announced that Silksong would be playable on both Switch consoles. The game then officially launched across all major platforms—including the original Switch and Switch 2—on September 4, 2025.

Pricing breakdown and free upgrade policy

Silksong hit the eShop at an accessible price of approximately $19.99 USD (similar pricing in euros and yen), far below the typical $70 AAA rate.

If you purchase it on the original Switch, a free upgrade to the enhanced edition for Switch 2 is also available—no added cost. This enhanced version unlocks higher frame rates (including 120 Hz mode), sharper visuals, and smoother performance on the newer hardware.

For those wondering how the game exactly runs on Switch 1, here's what a Reddit user had to say:

Reddit

Physical edition timeline

Although a digital release came first, physical editions are on the way. The first physical copies will arrive in early 2026, exclusively for the Switch family (both original and Switch 2). Availability for other platforms remains uncertain, but is hopeful.

Being playable on the original Switch preserves accessibility, especially for fans who haven't upgraded and who can still join the fun immediately. And with the free Switch 2 upgrade, the game future-proofs itself for when you do upgrade. The low price also makes it a rare indie release that’s both accessible and generous.

SIlksong's Switch-focused release summary

Platform Availability Notes
Original Nintendo Switch Yes, from September 4, 2025 Full version available at launch
Nintendo Switch 2 Yes, at launch Enhanced visuals & 120 Hz; free upgrade from original
Game Pass (PC / Xbox) Yes, at launch Available with Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass
Physical edition (Switch only) Coming early 2026 Digital only at launch; other platforms TBD

Fans of the first Hollow Knight, still on the original Switch—Silksong is yours without extra steps. Your console is supported from day one. And if you decide to upgrade to the newer model someday, that path is smoothed by a no-cost upgrade delivering boosted performance. In short: it’s a win for accessibility, affordability, and future readiness.