Nintendo Switch Lifecycle Ends Without Key Game: A Missed Opportunity

The Nintendo Switch is approaching the twilight of its lifecycle, with fervent speculation surrounding the upcoming announcement of Nintendo’s next console generation. While the Switch is gradually being phased out, it has concluded its journey with a bang, as Nintendo has released an array of fresh spin-offs and titles within its cherished franchises. Although a few first-party titles are still slated for release on the original Switch, the majority of developers have set their sights on the forthcoming Switch 2.

This shifting focus has sparked great interest among gamers regarding the third-party launch titles for the Switch 2. Fans are particularly eager to know whether iconic games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring will make their debut on the new hardware. Amidst the excitement for what’s to come, it’s hard not to contemplate the notable titles that will remain absent from the Switch — especially considering the remarkable adaptations that have previously succeeded in making the leap. Notably, one particular game stands out as a glaring omission from the Switch library, despite the evident demand for it.

Why Red Dead Redemption 2 Deserves a Place on Nintendo Switch

Completing the Series on Nintendo’s Platform

A group gathering in Red Dead Redemption 2

Arthur with his horse in Red Dead Redemption 2

Despite being ranked among the most acclaimed games of all time, Red Dead Redemption 2 never found its way to the Nintendo Switch. Although several Rockstar titles, including a robust port of L.A. Noire and the controversial GTA Trilogy, have made the transition, the absence of RDR2 is notably disappointing.

As of November 2024, sales figures from Statista show that Red Dead Redemption 2 has sold over 67 million copies globally. This impressive number could have swelled even further had it been released on Nintendo’s platform, particularly during the Switch’s formative years. The availability of first-rate open-world RPGs on the Switch is limited; RDR2’s unique blend of immersive gameplay and compelling storytelling remains unmatched. While it’s easier to advocate for its inclusion on the Switch, questions remain about the feasibility of the game’s performance on the console.

Evaluating the Nintendo Switch’s Capability for RDR2

Performance May Require Significant Compromises

A witch and wizard bursting out of a Nintendo Switch, with Hogwarts Castle visible behind them.

Running Red Dead Redemption 2 on the Nintendo Switch would likely necessitate substantial sacrifices in terms of performance. A good reference point is 2015’s The Witcher 3, which, while celebrated as one of the finest ports on the Switch, had to lower its resolution, image quality, and NPC density to achieve a reasonably stable frame rate. Currently, even this acclaimed title struggles to maintain a consistent 30 FPS in densely populated locations.

Similarly, Hogwarts Legacy — a more recent release — was adapted for the Switch with considerable compromises. While the game runs smoothly overall, it has lower graphical fidelity, and players face longer loading times due to added processing for non-Hogwarts locations. Vital details and environments were also modified to maintain smoother gameplay.

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Even with adjustments akin to those made for Hogwarts Legacy, it’s uncertain if Rockstar would endorse such compromises. One major attraction of RDR2 is its unparalleled immersion and realism, which would be significantly diminished if forced into a compact 32GB Switch cartridge format.

A Glimmer of Hope for RDR2 on Switch 2

Potential Launch Title for the New Console

In-game screenshot from Red Dead Redemption 2 showing a hunting scene.

There is still optimism for fans eager to experience the Red Dead saga on new hardware, as RDR2 may very well launch with the Nintendo Switch 2. With leaked specifications suggesting that the Switch 2’s power could match that of the PlayStation 4, it appears capable of handling the ambitious nature of Red Dead Redemption 2 without compromising its rich gameplay experience. In fact, RDR2 could serve as a flagship launch title, effectively showcasing the advancements of the Switch 2 compared to its predecessor.

Considering the technological strides being made in mobile gaming—with titles like Death Stranding now playable on smartphones—it seems only a matter of time before gamers get to enjoy Red Dead Redemption 2 on a Nintendo platform. While the original Switch may not have been suited to accommodate RDR2 under ideal conditions, the Switch 2‘s backward compatibility ensures that those who previously purchased the original Red Dead Redemption can seamlessly continue their journey on Nintendo’s next console.

Source: Statista, Nintendo of America/YouTube

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