The Nintendo Switch’s sales might have slowed down but they’re still pretty strong given the console’s age.
- Nintendo provides a covert glimpse of the Switch 2 at Gamescom 2023, with Zelda: Breath of the Wild and ‘The Matrix Awakens’ tech demo impressing attendees.
- Rumored features include Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling, ray tracing, and a potential release in spring 2024, continuing the portable mode legacy of the original Switch.
- Despite the buzz around Switch 2, Nintendo remains dedicated to its current Switch lineup, with upcoming games and efforts to sustain demand for the existing console.
Much conjecture over Nintendo’s impending next-generation system, the Switch 2, has been sparked by the company’s recent behind-the-scenes demo at Gamescom 2023.
Several reliable sources from Eurogamer and VGC indicate that a private demonstration of the capabilities of the new console was available to a limited group of developers.
Among the demos on show, one that piqued interest was a revamp of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, the Switch’s original game. The game was clearly improved, showcasing the capabilities of the next system. Notably, both sources made sure to clarify that this does not imply that the game will be reissued on the new system. Furthermore, The Matrix Awakens, an Unreal Engine 5 tech demo from Epic that debuted in 2021 as a showcase for the power of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, was also shown off running on the purported Switch 2 hardware. This technical marvel is truly amazing. Fascinatingly, the presentation’s graphics were comparable to those of Microsoft‘s and Sony’s most recent models.
To get into the specifics, Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling technology, enhanced by ray tracing, was the driving force behind these stunning images. These developments suggest that Nintendo and Nvidia are working hard to improve the processor in the upcoming system.
About the release date, a number of reports indicate that it is scheduled for release in 2024, although Nintendo may release it much sooner—possibly in the spring of 2024. Considering that the original Switch was released in March, this fits with past trends.
Similar to the Switch, the Switch 2 will apparently have a portable mode. But rather than using an OLED screen, the corporation is choosing to use an LCD one in an effort to save money. Gamers who prefer tangible games can also rejoice because the cartridge slot is still present. Still unresolved are concerns over backward compatibility with the current Switch games.
The idea of a next-generation Switch has long been rumored. A few years ago, Bloomberg reported that a 4K version of the Switch was in the works, but the pandemic-related worldwide chip shortage threw a monkey wrench into those plans. This is in addition to another recent story that compared the Switch 2 to the PS5.
It is indisputable that Switch sales have been declining, even if Nintendo has subsequently denied rumors that a 4K Switch Pro is in the works.
Nintendo’s commitment to its current flagship is clear in the interim. They have a number of titles planned for the Switch in the near future, such as Super Mario RPG remake, Super Mario Bros. Odyssey, and Detective Pikachu Returns. This degree of dedication, together with President Shuntaro Furukawa’s recent statements regarding increasing demand for the Switch, contribute to a more complete understanding of the company’s approach.
Regarding the tech demos, a warning is necessary. Although these represent the pinnacle of a console’s capabilities, with a primary emphasis on graphics, gameplay components may require trade-offs in this area. Tech demos are, after all, created without the need for gaming overlays.
Still, curiosity is piqued by the secured booth at Nintendo’s event. Press observers pointed out areas that were off limits, adding to the mystery surrounding the event. It’s important to distinguish between “comparable visuals” and “comparable hardware/power” as rumors and inconsistent reports circulate. But if Nintendo’s previous inventions are any indication, enthusiasts should be ready for yet another pleasant surprise.