The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is not expected to rival the graphical prowess of cutting-edge consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. However, recent evaluations indicate that it achieves impressive performance, comparable to PlayStation 4 visuals, while introducing notable enhancements.
Insights from Digital Foundry
In a revealing segment of their weekly podcast, the technology specialists at Digital Foundry conducted a side-by-side analysis of gameplay footage from Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, Hogwarts Legacy, and Elden Ring on the Nintendo Switch 2, juxtaposing it with corresponding PlayStation 4 gameplay. The results were intriguing.
Game-Specific Visual Comparisons
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
The Nintendo Switch 2 version of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade matches the PlayStation 4 version in terms of resolution and overall image fidelity. However, leveraging the enhanced lighting techniques seen in the Intergrade iteration leads to superior visuals in certain scenarios, something the older console cannot replicate.
Hogwarts Legacy: An Outlier
Perhaps the most compelling case emerges from Hogwarts Legacy, which appears to be visually superior on the Nintendo Switch 2 compared to its PlayStation 4 counterpart. Despite a lower base resolution of 720p versus 1080p (upscaled) on the PS4, the Switch 2 version benefits from a much crisper and less aliased image, hinting at a possible advanced temporal upscaling approach. This suggests the potential for improved image quality over previous generation consoles.
Elden Ring: A Closer Look
Among the trio, Elden Ring shows the closest resemblance to its PlayStation 4 version on the Nintendo Switch 2, maintaining similar resolution levels with a marginally improved shadow drawing distance. It is important to note that the analysis was somewhat constrained by the quality of the footage, which limited a more precise comparison.
Emerging Trends in Console Performance
Initial assessments highlight that the Nintendo Switch 2 not only matches the visual standards of the PlayStation 4 but, in some instances, may surpass them. This advantage stems from not only modern hardware upgrades but also the unique opportunities that late-game ports afford developers. For instance, the recent Alien Isolation port for the console demonstrated significant improvements in image treatment, utilizing TAA to enhance visual quality over its rivals.
The Advantage of 120 Hz Displays
One of the standout features of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its potential to offer enhanced experiences for multiplatform games, thanks to its 120 Hz display. Traditionally, higher frame rates and HDR support have been seen as bonus features, given the lack of standardization in these areas among various consoles. However, the Switch 2’s screen capability suggests that we can anticipate many titles incorporating 40 FPS modes and HDR support. This is especially beneficial given that handheld mode is likely to be frequently utilized. Hence, games running at 720p and 40 FPS on the Switch 2 promise a more fluid experience compared to the 30 FPS limit found in other configurations.
Mark your calendars: the Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be unveiled globally on June 5th.
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