FromSoftware will release Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition on August 28, 2026, bundling the original 2022 open-world action RPG with its Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, two new starting classes, and exclusive armor. Elden Ring Tarnished Edition arrives on every current platform, including Nintendo Switch 2, giving Nintendo’s newest console its first native version of the game.
The re-release lands roughly four years after Elden Ring’s original launch, a stretch that saw the game win multiple Game of the Year awards, spawn the spin-off roguelike Elden Ring: Nightreign, and lead to an upcoming live-action film. Elden Ring Tarnished Edition is priced at approximately $79.99. FromSoftware has not detailed a discount for players who already own the base game or Shadow of the Erdtree, though a reduced upgrade price is expected closer to launch.
What’s new in Elden Ring Tarnished Edition
The two new starting classes are built for players creating a fresh character. The Heavy Knight leans into melee-focused, high-armor builds, while the Knight of Ides pairs medium armor with a mix of faith and dexterity. FromSoftware is also adding three to four exclusive armor sets, including one reportedly modeled on Lucatiel, the fan-favorite character from Dark Souls II. Torrent, the player’s spectral steed, gets a new cosmetic appearance as well. None of the additions change existing quests, bosses, or areas in the Lands Between.
Switch 2 access, but not a must-buy for veterans
Players who already finished Elden Ring and Shadow of the Erdtree will find the core game and story unchanged, since Tarnished Edition adds cosmetics and starting options rather than new content. The bigger draw is platform access. Nintendo Switch 2 owners get their first chance to play Elden Ring natively, and PlayStation 4 owners get continued support on a console FromSoftware has kept updated well into the PS5 generation.
Reaction on the r/Eldenring subreddit reflects that split. “I’m excited for Switch users. But it’s a nothing sandwich for everyone else,” one player wrote. Another took a different view: “I think it’s super great that the PS4 still gets an update for Elden Ring. As someone who can’t afford a PS5 yet, I really appreciate FromSoftware for continuing to optimize the game on the older console.”
Elden Ring Tarnished Edition ships as a single package rather than a paid upgrade for the classes and armor alone, so returning players deciding whether to buy again will likely weigh platform access and the new cosmetics against a story and world they have already completed.
- Release date: August 28, 2026
- Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Nintendo Switch 2
- Price: approximately $79.99
- Includes: base game, Shadow of the Erdtree, two new starting classes, new armor sets, new Torrent cosmetic