Nintendo’s technical powerhouse Monolith Soft has once again demonstrated its expertise with the release of Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition for Switch 2. The upgraded version runs at 60 frames per second and supports enhanced resolutions up to 4K, marking the first time a Xenoblade Chronicles title has achieved such performance. This technical achievement has sparked anticipation for what Monolith Soft’s next project might bring to Nintendo’s new hardware.
The Switch 2 edition was shadow-dropped by Nintendo last week as a £4.19 upgrade for existing owners. According to gaming outlets, the enhanced version maintains the same massive open world that originally impressed on Wii U, now running smoother than ever on Nintendo’s latest console.
Monolith Soft Leads Nintendo’s Technical Innovation
Monolith Soft has established itself as one of Nintendo’s most valuable developers since being acquired from Bandai Namco in 2007. The studio has contributed groundbreaking work to major franchises including The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and its sequel, as well as Switch 2 launch title Mario Kart World.
Additionally, the developer routinely assists with other key Nintendo franchises such as Animal Crossing and Splatoon. Zelda series general manager Daiki Iwamoto described the studio as a “strong partner” last month, expressing interest in Monolith Soft’s continued involvement with the series.
Technical Excellence Despite Limited Hardware
The studio has consistently pushed boundaries even on modest hardware. From the original Xenoblade Chronicles on Wii to Xenoblade Chronicles X on Wii U, Monolith Soft has created massive, densely detailed open worlds without requiring top-tier specifications.
Meanwhile, the latest Xenoblade Chronicles X upgrade showcases the studio’s ability to optimize for new hardware. The game features seamless traversal across its enormous map without loading screens, all while maintaining 60fps performance on Switch 2.
Nintendo’s Conservative Approach to Switch 2 Capabilities
However, Nintendo has notably avoided showcasing the Switch 2’s technical capabilities through first-party demonstrations. There has been no official tech demo, with the most impressive titles coming from third-party developers like CD Projekt Red’s Cyberpunk 2077 and Capcom’s Resident Evil Requiem.
Resident Evil Requiem director Koshi Nakanishi stated the game “worked so smoothly” on Switch 2 that the team proceeded with minimal adjustments. In contrast, Nintendo’s own launch titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, while visually appealing, were originally developed with Switch 1 in mind.
Third-party ports have effectively highlighted the console’s power more than Nintendo’s own releases. Star Wars Outlaws and Final Fantasy 7 Remake have received praise for their visual quality and performance on the platform, according to recent reviews.
What’s Next for Monolith Soft
Based on the studio’s release history, a new Monolith Soft game could arrive as early as 2027. The developer typically releases projects every two to three years, with Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition arriving in 2025.
The studio is almost certainly involved with upcoming entries in the Zelda and Animal Crossing franchises. Industry observers suggest Monolith Soft might also contribute to the next 3D Mario game, marking a potential first for the developer.
Details about Monolith Soft’s next major project remain unknown, though the studio’s involvement typically signals both importance and technical advancement for Nintendo titles. Authorities have not confirmed specific projects currently in development at the studio.
