This update is mandatory. The base game is essentially a demo without it. The "Full" package transforms the Switch version from a compromised port into a legitimate handheld marvel. While the resolution takes a hit compared to the PS4 version, the ability to play Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage on a plane or during a commute is worth the effort of patching.
But the true test was the "Full" part of the update. Some updates were partial, missing voice packs or texture data. Elias paused the game and dove into the settings. He switched the language to French, then Spanish, then back to English. The voice lines triggered instantly. The texture pop-in was gone. The dark, moody atmosphere of the Twilight Harbor level—previously a mess of low-res shadows—would now be rendered correctly. spyro reignited trilogy nsp xci update 101 full
Note: If you have a "Full" updated XCI, you can often simply place it in your games folder and load it directly if your loader supports it. Spyro Reignited Trilogy: NSP, XCI, and the Essential 1