Nintendo Switch 2 Graphics Mods Showcase ARK Improvements: Reviving One of the Worst Ports on Switch

Nintendo Switch 2 Graphics Mod Test Shows Significant Improvements

This week, a compelling graphics mod test for the Nintendo Switch 2 was published, shedding light on the substantial enhancements the new console brings to ARK: Survival Evolved. This title has long been criticized for its poor performance on the original Switch.

YouTube Test Video Overview

A video posted on YouTube by naga illustrates the game’s performance on both the overclocked Nintendo Switch and the new Nintendo Switch 2. The demonstration includes mods that enable a frame rate cap set to 60 FPS and enhanced resolution settings. At the base 1080p resolution, players can appreciate substantial improvements, as ARK runs smoothly, achieving a consistent frame rate capped at 60 FPS without the pronounced stuttering characteristic of the original console.

Performance at Higher Resolutions

As for 1440p resolution, the Nintendo Switch 2 exhibits commendable performance, frequently maintaining around 50 FPS. This is a notable advancement and makes the gaming experience enjoyable. However, when pushed to 4K resolution, the console experiences challenges, with frame rates dropping to approximately 25 FPS, accompanied by texture issues likely related to RAM limitations. Despite these setbacks, the absence of the severe stuttering encountered on the original Switch underscores the potential of the new hardware.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mY16ahbIAB8

ARK Graphics Mods on Switch 2 – 60 FPS / 4K Resolution (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mY16ahbIAB8)

Understanding Graphics Mods on Nintendo Switch 2

For those unfamiliar with the current state of modding, it may come as a surprise that the Nintendo Switch 2 can show such enhancements, considering the console has not yet been hacked. This progress is made possible through the importation of modded save files, which allow alterations in graphics settings even in backward-compatible titles. Using this technique, naga tested various games, including Grid Autosport and Alien Isolation, to assess how far the Nintendo Switch 2 could be pushed in terms of performance.

Improving Backward-Compatible Titles Without Mods

It’s worth noting that while graphics mods enhance experiences, they are not a prerequisite for enjoying backward-compatible titles on the Nintendo Switch 2. Due to the console’s upgraded hardware capabilities, many games benefit from improved frame rates and overall performance even in the absence of specific patches.

For more detailed insights and visuals, check the source here.