Our review of Farming Simulator: Signature Edition on Switch 2 just went live, and I have to say, it’s a huge step up from Farming Simulator 23. The game feels bigger, more technical, and more polished than the previous versions of the series. So how did it all come together? We welcome back Martin Rabl, Head of Marketing at GIANTS Software, to talk about the Signature Edition, what the team learned from Farming Simulator 23, and what the future holds for Switch farmers.
Farming Simulator 23 was built with the limitations of the original Switch in mind. How has the jump to Switch 2 for Farming Simulator: Signature Edition changed what your team can achieve?
The hardware power meant a lot to us. For the first time, we could bring the full Farming Simulator 25 experience – with all its machines, gameplay, and features – to a device you can take anywhere. We’re extremely happy with the result, and especially with how quickly we could deliver it. Launching in time for Xmas and only about half a year after the console debuted means we’re introducing the series to a fresh audience at just the right moment.
What core improvements does the Switch 2 hardware enable for the Farming Simulator series that weren’t possible previously?
In short: a massive amount of new opportunities. FS23 had to account for mobile hardware and limited input options, which restricted how complex our machinery handling could be. Our vehicles allow multiple actions like driving a tractor and operating the attachment simultaneously. Nintendo Switch 2 finally gives us the power to put more control into the hands of the players.
Beyond pure gameplay, the visual jump is significant. HDR, DLSS, SSAO to name a few technical terms, as well as improved fog, cloud shadows and enhanced lighting all bring the world much closer to our mainline versions. The overall scale of machines and gameplay is now on par with FS25 – something we couldn’t have imagined on the original Switch.
Back when we spoke about Farming Simulator 23, you mentioned that not all vehicles could make it across to the original Switch due to hardware limitations. With Signature Edition now offering over 400 vehicles and landing much closer to the mainline console releases, was achieving content parity a deliberate goal? How important was it to make the Switch 2 version feel aligned with the other console editions?
Achieving parity was absolutely a priority. Nintendo Switch players are part of our core community, and we wanted them to have access to the same breadth of machinery and features as other platforms. Nintendo Switch 2 finally gives us the headroom to offer more than 400 vehicles and tools, and bring this Nintendo version much closer to the mainline experience than ever before.
As always, exact appearance can vary depending on each player’s technical setup – much like with PCs, where components differ widely. On Nintendo Switch 2, players may notice a lower frame rate compared to high-end systems, but the game is designed to feel great at 30 fps, and the relaxed pace of the experience means you’re never at a disadvantage.
Was there any content that didn’t make the cut?
Mod support is not available at launch. We’re still experimenting with the feature and can’t promise that it will be integrated, but we’re hopeful that modding may be possible through a future update.
Are there any plans for cross-progression or cross-play, even in limited forms?
This release was created exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2. It includes the Mercedes-Benz Trucks Pack – which isn’t part of the FS25 base game – and doesn’t offer connectivity with other platforms.
How does GIANTS Software balance serving longtime fans while also making the series approachable for newcomers on Nintendo platforms?
Farming Simulator is an open-world sandbox game built around creativity and customizable options. Players can tailor the experience however they like – different starting levels, optional systems such as the crop calendar, or disabling things like weeds entirely.
We guide new players gently with an in-game tutorial, including Grandpa Walter, who walks you through early steps like vehicle handling and fieldwork. And we supplement that with extensive tutorials on our website, giving newcomers plenty of support as they progress and try new crops, production chains or animal types.
Has the studio’s approach to handheld development changed since FS23? What was the biggest lesson learned?
We actually avoid comparing this project directly to FS23. This isn’t a mobile-scaled game – it’s a full Farming Simulator title built specifically for Nintendo Switch 2. As always, the biggest learning process is getting to know the new hardware and understanding how to make the most of it.
What is the team most excited for fans to discover when they play Farming Simulator on Switch 2?
The sheer freedom and variety. Players can grow everything from wheat and potatoes to rice and spinach, care for animals like goats, sheep, chickens and their offspring, and operate more than 400 authentic machines from over 150 brands. On top of that, production chains, construction projects, and farm shops add even more depth – alongside weather challenges and seasonal changes. There’s always something new to explore on the three vast maps.
Is there anything you can tease about the future of Farming Simulator on the Switch 2 ecosystem?
We’re currently exploring whether modding could be supported, though it’s still early and not something we can promise yet. What we can guarantee is that we’ll continue delivering free updates and bringing even more content and machines to the game. Fans can look forward to new content in 2026, for free!
Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions, Martin. It’s been great chatting with you again.
Farming Simulator: Signature Edition is out now on the Nintendo eShop: https://ec.nintendo.com/AU/en/titles/70010000099921
If you want to read our full review, check it out here: https://www.whatsitlike.com.au/farming-simulator-signature-edition-switch-2-review/
Featuring over 400 machines from 150 real-life brands, 25 crop types, and the ability to buy businesses and manage productions, Farming Simulator: Signature Edition is a must-play for longtime fans and anyone who enjoys detailed, methodical simulation.
