The Nintendo Switch 2 launched this week with a solid mix of first-party and third-party titles, including Mario Kart World, Street Fighter 6, and Fantasy Life i. But if you are a Sonic fan deciding what to pick up, one game may not be worth the double dip: Sonic × Shadow Generations.
This is not because the game itself is lacking. Sonic Generations remains one of the most celebrated 3D Sonic titles, and last year’s expanded release with Shadow content only made it stronger. The original Switch version from 2024 ran well and delivered a fun experience. However, the new Switch 2 version is already disappointing early adopters.
Unlike other publishers offering upgrade options for Switch 2 titles, Sega has not provided any path for existing owners of the game. If you bought Sonic × Shadow Generations on the original Switch, you will need to repurchase it at full price for Switch 2. The cost is $49.99, and previously purchased DLC will not carry over. This includes skins such as the Keanu Reeves bonus content. The only thing that can be transferred is your save data.
Worse still, the re-release does not include any of the original launch bonuses. The Dreamcast Sonic skin is missing, there are no physical extras like Gerald Robotnik’s journal, and no special content has been added to justify the re-release. Even the physical version of the game is not truly physical. It comes on a Game-Key Card, which contains no game data and requires a full download, something that may turn off collectors.
Other publishers have offered upgrade pricing or complete editions that bundle DLC, such as Cyberpunk 2077 or Hogwarts Legacy. Sega’s decision to resell the same content at full price with minimal improvements feels like a misstep.
Sonic × Shadow Generations is still a fantastic game and well worth playing if you have never experienced it before. But for those who already bought it just months ago, the Switch 2 version offers little reason to return.
Stay tuned to Sonic City for more Sonic X Shadow Generations News and Updates.
