Nintendo has released its latest system software update for the Switch and Switch 2, bringing both consoles’ firmware up to Version 21.1.0.
Today’s patch is a minor one — at least, according to the official patch notes. Still, it’s interesting to note that it has arrived just two weeks after the last update, Version 21.0.1, which fixed a number of system transfer and Bluetooth accessory bugs.
This patch, on the surface at least, looks to change less. But then why does it have a bigger change in version number? For now, the usual datamining sources are yet to discover what else may have been updated behind the scenes, but we’ll keep an eye and update if more is discovered.
A month ago, Nintendo’s last major update to its console firmware was also widely criticized for appearing to break compatibility with a range of third-party Switch 2 docks. In a statement to IGN on the issue, Nintendo claimed it had no “intention to hinder or invalidate legal third-party dock compatibility.”
Today’s update also arrives a week after the launch of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, the long-awaited next entry in Nintendo’s classic first-person shooter series, and the company’s last big game launch of 2025. The title arrived to a solid, if not spectacular response. “Not all of Prime 4’s additions work, but this is still an excellent comeback,” IGN wrote in our Metroid Prime 4: Beyond review, scoring the game 8/10.
Nintendo’s full patch notes for today’s minor update lie below:
Switch Update Version 21.1.0 (Released December 8, 2025)
General system stability improvements to enhance the user’s experience.
Switch 2 Update Version 21.1.0 (Released December 8, 2025)
General system stability improvements to enhance the user’s experience.
Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social
