Final fantasy xiv’s switch 2 launch promises a memory-crunching experience

Published on 28/07/2026 03:01 in technology • Nika Shakhnazarova

Square Enix is preparing to unleash Final Fantasy XIV onto the Nintendo Switch 2 next month, but be warned: it’s going to devour a frankly astonishing amount of console storage.

A download that will test your sd card limits

The initial eShop listing reveals a hefty 117.2GB install size, accounting for a staggering near 50% of the Switch 2’s 256GB memory. That’s nearly double the game’s footprint on PlayStation 5, which leverages some sophisticated file compression. Frankly, it’s a significant commitment – and one that will likely require a premium SD card, or a frankly painful drive to clear space.

Past expansions included – a blessing and a curse

Past expansions included – a blessing and a curse

On the bright side, this massive download bundles all five previous expansions – Heavensward, Stormblood, Shadowbringers, Endwalker, and Dawntrail – directly into the package. So, you won’t need to worry about acquiring those separately. However, this also foreshadows a looming problem: Evercold, the sixth expansion, is already slated for release next January, promising an even greater demand on your device’s memory.

Record holders and a stabilized launch

Square Enix, predictably, holds the current record for the largest Switch 2 game, thanks to Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, which clocks in at 91.8GB. Game director Naoki Yoshida confirmed the launch date during the 2026 Berlin Fan Festival, alongside assurances that the servers will be stabilized during the game's first month – initially offered without a subscription fee. It’s a bold move, designed to ease players into the system. But let’s be clear: this is not a game for the faint of heart, or those lacking sufficient storage space.

A stark reminder of scale

The sheer size of Final Fantasy XIV is a testament to the evolution of the MMO genre. It’s a remarkable achievement, certainly, but one that underscores the ever-increasing demands placed on modern gaming hardware. Prepare for a significant download and, potentially, a more frequent trip to the SD card aisle.