Skyrim just launched on yet another platform with the Switch 2 Anniversary Edition shadowdrop, and even Bethesda knows the jokes write themselves at this point. Matt Carofano, who served as lead artist on the original Skyrim and now works as creative director, admitted in a recent interview that the frequency of Skyrim re-releases has become “a bit of a joke,” but insists each port brings the game to new audiences who deserve the best version possible.
The Quote That Launched A Thousand Memes
Speaking with Nintendo Life about the Switch 2 release, Carofano didn’t shy away from the elephant in the room. “It’s a bit of a joke at this point how often we release Skyrim, but it’s a great game. We want everyone to be able to play it in the best way possible,” he explained. The comment instantly went viral across gaming communities, with fans appreciating the rare moment of self-awareness from a major publisher.
Carofano doubled down on the justification, noting that Bethesda loves working with Nintendo and that each new console generation represents a fresh opportunity. He emphasized that while veteran players see another re-release, many Switch 2 owners will experience Skyrim for the very first time on this hardware.
Skyrim’s Endless Re-Release Timeline
Since launching in November 2011, Skyrim has appeared on an astonishing number of platforms. The Switch 2 version marks at least the 10th major release across different systems, cementing the game’s status alongside GTA 5 and Resident Evil 4 as gaming’s most re-released titles.
| Year | Version | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Original | PC, PS3, Xbox 360 |
| 2013 | Legendary Edition | PC, PS3, Xbox 360 |
| 2016 | Special Edition | PC, PS4, Xbox One |
| 2017 | Original Port | Nintendo Switch |
| 2017 | VR Edition | PSVR |
| 2018 | VR Edition | HTC Vive, Oculus Rift |
| 2021 | Anniversary Edition | PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S |
| 2025 | Anniversary Edition | Nintendo Switch 2 |
Each version brought incremental improvements – better graphics, mod support on consoles, VR functionality, and Creation Club content. The Switch 2 edition features enhanced resolution with DLSS anti-aliasing, improved load times, Joy-Con 2 mouse support, motion controls, and all Anniversary Edition content including hundreds of Creation Club items.
Why Bethesda Keeps Doing It
Carofano explained that the Switch 2 port was “really easy” thanks to Bethesda’s existing experience with Nintendo hardware. The team focused on leveraging the upgraded specs for performance and visual improvements rather than rebuilding from scratch. With over 30 million copies sold across all versions by 2016 (and likely far more today), the business case remains strong.
- Free upgrade path for Switch Anniversary Edition owners
- $19.99 upgrade for base Switch edition owners
- $59.99 standalone purchase for new players
- Zelda-themed items including Master Sword and Hylian Shield
- All three DLCs: Dawnguard, Dragonborn, Hearthfire
The pricing strategy shows Bethesda balancing fan goodwill with profit – free upgrades for loyal customers, affordable paths for existing Switch owners, and full-price entry for newcomers.
Fan Reaction And Elder Scrolls 6 Anxiety
Reddit threads exploded with both humor and frustration. Many appreciated Carofano’s honesty, while others channeled their annoyance toward the still-distant Elder Scrolls 6. The next mainline entry only left pre-production in 2024 after Starfield’s Shattered Space DLC wrapped, with most optimistic estimates pointing to 2026 or later for release.
Bethesda confirmed Elder Scrolls 6 runs on Creation Engine 2 with custom additions, but Todd Howard previously described development as still in the design phase. Insiders suggest the game remains “quite playable” internally but years from launch, fueling speculation that fans might see another Skyrim re-release before Elder Scrolls 6 arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Skyrim Switch 2 worth buying if I own another version?
If you want portable play with better performance than original Switch, yes. Otherwise, Anniversary Edition on PC or current-gen consoles offers similar content.
How many times has Skyrim been released?
At least 10 major versions across PC, seven console generations, VR platforms, and now Switch 2 since 2011.
Will there be another Skyrim re-release?
Given Carofano’s comments and Bethesda’s track record, never say never. Future VR hardware or mid-gen console refreshes remain possibilities.
When is Elder Scrolls 6 coming out?
No official date exists. Most estimates point to 2026 at the earliest, with 2027-2028 more realistic given current development stage.
Does the Switch 2 version fix Skyrim’s bugs?
Early reports suggest classic Bethesda bugs remain, disappointing fans who hoped for deeper technical improvements beyond performance boosts.
Why do people keep buying Skyrim?
New hardware owners discover it fresh, portability appeals to existing fans, and the core game remains genuinely excellent 14 years later.
Did Todd Howard comment on the Switch 2 release?
Not directly on Switch 2, but he previously acknowledged Skyrim re-release jokes in past interviews about the Anniversary Edition.
The Joke That Never Gets Old
Matt Carofano’s candid admission perfectly captures gaming’s most enduring meme. Skyrim has transcended normal product lifecycles to become a cultural fixture – simultaneously beloved and mocked for its omnipresence. The Switch 2 version delivers legitimate technical improvements and accessibility for Nintendo’s ecosystem, but it also reminds everyone that Elder Scrolls 6 remains frustratingly far away.
For now, the joke continues. Whether you’re a first-time Dragonborn or returning for your dozenth playthrough, Skyrim waits once more. Just maybe on a smartwatch next time.