Ethan Crossfield 
Local co-op remains one of Nintendo's most dependable multiplayer strengths, and the Switch 2 is expanding that library with another critically praised action game. Absolum, the fantasy side-scrolling beat-'em-up from Guard Crush Games, Supamonks, and Dotemu, is now available in a dedicated Nintendo Switch 2 Edition after earning strong reviews across its original release platforms.
A Fantasy Beat-'Em-Up With Roguelike Depth
Absolum is set in Talamh, where a group of warriors joins forces to challenge an evil Sun King and his cultist army. Its playable roster includes a dwarven fighter, an elven swordsman, a biomechanical assassin, and an anthropomorphic frog wizard. Each character brings distinct weapons and magical abilities to a combat system built around fast side-scrolling brawling.
The formula also incorporates roguelike progression and RPG-inspired systems. That combination gives Absolum more structure than a straightforward arcade beat-'em-up, while keeping moment-to-moment combat at the center. The game supports up to two players, whether the session uses local play, online multiplayer, or Nintendo Switch 2 Gameshare.
What the Switch 2 Edition Adds
The new edition is priced at $24.99 through the Nintendo eShop. Players who already own the original Nintendo Switch version can claim the Switch 2 upgrade pack at no additional cost. Physical copies for Switch and Switch 2 are also expected at select local retailers for approximately $45.
The Switch 2 version runs at 60 frames per second and includes improved resolution. Its Gameshare support allows local play with other Nintendo Switch devices, broadening the ways players can start a session without requiring every participant to own the new hardware. Online play still requires an active Nintendo Switch Online membership.
Strong Reviews Give the Port a Solid Foundation
Absolum first launched for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, and the original Nintendo Switch in October 2025. Its critical reception was notably positive: OpenCritic lists an 86 Top Critic Average and a 97% critic recommendation score, while Metacritic reports scores of 87 on PS5 and PC and 89 on Nintendo Switch.
Reviewers generally highlighted the accessible but mechanically deep combat, rapid gameplay loop, progression systems, and hand-drawn presentation. The roguelike structure was less consistent for some critics, and busy encounters could make the otherwise distinctive artwork difficult to read. GameRant's Josh Cotts awarded Absolum a 9/10, praising its creative, unpredictable hybrid design while identifying combat-time visual clutter as a key drawback.
Key points
- Absolum is now available as a dedicated Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
- The game supports two-player co-op through local, online, and Gameshare options.
- Switch 2 features include 60 FPS performance and improved resolution.
- Owners of the original Switch version can download the upgrade pack for free.
Absolum availability and multiplayer details
| Version or platform | Confirmed details |
|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch 2 | $24.99 digitally; 60 FPS, improved resolution, and Gameshare |
| Original Nintendo Switch | Existing owners receive the Switch 2 upgrade pack for free |
| PS4, PS5, and PC | Original release platforms |
| All multiplayer formats | Maximum of two players; online play requires Nintendo Switch Online |
Expert View
Absolum's arrival gives the Switch 2 a polished co-op option without abandoning players who bought the original Nintendo version. The free upgrade lowers the barrier for returning players, while 60 FPS performance and Gameshare make the port more appealing for local groups. Although Absolum is not presented as a competitive esports title, its mechanical depth and two-player structure could help it develop a strong community among fans of repeatable action games. The port also shows how acclaimed smaller-scale releases can extend their audience when new hardware offers a clear performance and multiplayer benefit.
