System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster Gets Nintendo Switch 2 Version, Available Now on Switch

Nightdive Studios and Atari have officially brought System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster to the Nintendo Switch, with confirmation that a dedicated version for the Nintendo Switch 2 is also in development. The release marks a significant return for one of the most influential sci-fi horror games, now updated for modern audiences.

Originally released in 1999, System Shock 2 helped define the immersive sim genre, blending first-person shooting, RPG mechanics, and psychological horror. The remaster aims to preserve that legacy while refining the experience with modern enhancements and technical upgrades.

A Classic Horror Story Reimagined

Set in the year 2114, the game places players aboard the starship Von Braun, where something has gone catastrophically wrong. Awakening from cryo sleep with no memory of their identity, players must navigate a ship overrun by mutants, rogue machines, and a terrifying artificial intelligence.

At the center of the chaos is SHODAN, one of gaming’s most iconic antagonists. The rogue AI has seized control of the ship and is determined to wipe out humanity, leaving players to piece together what happened while fighting to survive.

The narrative unfolds through environmental storytelling and scattered audio logs, encouraging players to explore every corner of the ship. This slow-building tension remains one of the defining elements of the experience, even decades after the original release.

The remaster introduces cross-play co-op and improved gameplay systems while preserving the original’s tense survival mechanics (Image via Nightdive Studios)

Modern Upgrades Without Losing Identity

The 25th Anniversary Remaster focuses on enhancing the game’s presentation while staying true to its core design. Character models, weapons, and animations have all been updated, offering a cleaner and more polished look without altering the original atmosphere.

Quality-of-life improvements also play a major role, with optimized controls making the game more accessible to console players. These updates are particularly important for newcomers who may find the original version dated by modern standards.

The remaster also includes bonus content and technical refinements that aim to make the experience smoother across platforms. The goal is not to reinvent the game, but to make it more approachable while preserving its identity.

Cross-Play and Co-Op Add a New Dimension

One of the most notable additions is cross-play co-op multiplayer, which allows players to experience the game together across different platforms. This feature introduces a new way to engage with the story, turning what was once a solitary experience into a shared survival challenge.

Players can choose from three military branches, each offering different abilities and playstyles. This adds replay value and encourages experimentation, especially in co-op sessions where team composition can influence strategy.

The inclusion of cross-play reflects a broader trend in modern gaming, where accessibility and connectivity are becoming just as important as gameplay itself.

Switch 2 Version Signals Future Expansion

While the remaster is already available on the original Switch, the announcement of a dedicated Switch 2 version suggests further improvements are on the way. Although specific details have not yet been revealed, the upgraded hardware could allow for better performance, visuals, and possibly additional features.

This move indicates that Nightdive Studios is committed to supporting the game across multiple generations of hardware. It also highlights the continued relevance of System Shock 2, even as the industry evolves.

With a price point of $29.99 on the Nintendo eShop, the remaster offers both longtime fans and new players a chance to experience a landmark title in a more refined form.