Reason Behind Few Game Ports on Nintendo Switch (2) at Present

Reason Behind Few Game Ports on Nintendo Switch (2) at Present

The tech world is abuzz with the announcement of Nintendo's latest handheld device, the Switch 2. This new addition to the Nintendo family promises to deliver a gaming experience unlike any other, thanks to its impressive performance and a host of enhanced features.

Nintendo has been selective in approving games for the Switch 2, requiring developers to emphasize certain key features. These include smooth, high-resolution graphics, such as 4K visuals at 60 fps or 1440p at higher refresh rates when docked. Additionally, support for features like GameShare, C button support on controllers, and mouse mode are important. Developers need to implement some—but not necessarily all—of these enhanced capabilities to convince Nintendo to provide a dev kit.

One of the most anticipated games for the Switch 2 is 'Star Wars Outlaws', set to launch on September 4. The port includes extra features like touch controls in certain minigames to "enhance immersion". Other ports, like 'Street Fighter 6', run at a steady clip on the Switch 2.

The Switch 2's performance can be compared to the lower-end GeForce RTX 30-series cards, and ports like Cyberpunk 2077 on the Switch 2 perform better than on handhelds like the Steam Deck.

Nintendo prioritizes games that take advantage of the Switch 2’s hardware. Upcoming titles like 'Mina the Hollower', 'Content Warning,' and 'Ball X Pit' will be emphasized for both platforms. Developers are encouraged to port games to the Switch 2, but only if they can showcase the new system's best or distinctive qualities.

The Joy-Con 2 mouse mode may be a feature of games on the Switch 2, and other potential features include GameChat for quick and dirty video calls and improved rumble in the official controllers.

Nintendo requires developers to demonstrate a clear plan to utilize the Switch 2’s enhanced specs, including NVIDIA’s DLSS 3.1 upscaling technology. The Switch 2 uses DLSS 3.1, which was launched in 2023. The latest version of Nvidia's upscaler, DLSS 4, uses trained AI models for sharper textures and geometry.

Partner studios get priority treatment, and Lynxbyte, a Poland-based studio, shared details about what Nintendo wants from developers to receive a dev kit. The July 31 Nintendo Direct showcased ports of games like Persona 3 Reload and Apex Legends as exclusive to the Switch 2.

The Switch 2 may support games running at 4K resolution and 60 fps, making it a formidable contender in the handheld gaming market. With its impressive performance and enhanced features, the Switch 2 is set to redefine portable gaming.

[1] Source: Various developer interviews and Nintendo statements.

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