NIS America Delays Starbites on Switch 2; Switch 1 Still May 21

NIS America announced it is delaying the Nintendo Switch 2 version of the turn-based mech role-playing game Starbites and has not provided a new release date. The Nintendo Switch (Switch 1) edition remains scheduled to launch on May 21, 2026.

The announcement arrived eight days before the planned launch for the game’s Switch versions. In a brief statement, NIS America wrote, “More information will be shared when we are able.” The publisher did not give a reason for the postponement.

Players who want to play Starbites on a Nintendo console at launch will need to buy the Switch 1 edition, which is receiving a full physical release. The Switch 2 edition was previously set to receive a Game-Key Card format, but that plan was canceled in March.

NIS America indicated an upgrade path to the Switch 2 version will be offered for $4.99 once that edition becomes available. The publisher did not specify technical, certification, or production issues, nor did it provide a timetable for the Switch 2 release.

Distribution and marketing for the Switch 1 launch appear unchanged based on the publisher’s notice. Starbites had been preparing for simultaneous releases on both Switch platforms; with the Switch 2 edition postponed, initial Nintendo-platform players will receive the title on existing Switch hardware.