At a recent roundtable with Nintendo Switch 2 developers, there was a buzz of excitement as we dug into the soon-to-be-released console’s specs, which Nintendo has rather mysteriously described as sporting a “Custom processor made by NVIDIA.” Key figures behind the Switch 2 included producer Kouichi Kawamoto, technical director Tetsuya Sasaki, and director Takuhiro Dohta, who answered questions via interpreter Raymond Elliget, shedding more light on what gamers can expect from this eagerly awaited hardware.
When asked about the specifics, Sasaki kept his cards close to his chest, emphasizing Nintendo’s philosophy of prioritizing consumer value over raw hardware power. However, we did manage to glean some intriguing insights into the tech that forms the backbone of this new console.
One of the standout revelations was about Nintendo’s partnership with Nvidia, which allows them to utilize some cutting-edge tech. Dohta confirmed the use of DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) upscaling technology, giving developers the flexibility to either go for a native 4K output on TVs or to upscale, opening up a realm of possibilities to enhance visual experiences. Additionally, the ability of the chip to support hardware ray tracing introduces an exciting tool for developers, adding depth and realism to in-game graphics.
On the practical side, battery life was touched upon, though Nintendo chose not to make definitive claims. The Switch 2’s 5220 mAh battery offers a broad range from 2 to 6.5 hours, depending largely on the games and usage conditions, as highlighted by Sasaki. Dohta added that this variability stems from the system’s expanded feature set, including GameChat, making it more complex than the original Switch.
For those wondering about backward compatibility, there’s good news. The Switch 2 employs emulation to support original Switch games and even some GameCube classics, similar to how Xbox handles backward compatibility. According to Sasaki, while it might not be purely hardware-based, this software solution effectively bridges the gap between past and present gaming experiences.
A notable improvement is seen in the realm of Bluetooth connectivity. New Joy-Cons now connect via Bluetooth 3.0, and Sasaki assured us of better connectivity thanks to a larger system size, extra antennas, and numerous adjustments behind the scenes.
Interestingly, the new console features a 7.9-inch LCD display supporting HDR, a departure from the OLED screen seen in one of the original Switch’s premium versions. Sasaki and Kawamoto noted that advancements in LCD technology and the addition of HDR support justify this choice, despite initial perceptions that it might be a step backward.
Finally, the Switch 2’s design includes two USB Type-C ports, with only the bottom port supporting video out, as clarified by Kawamoto. This setup is supposed to work with Nintendo-approved accessories, though not with external displays like Xreal glasses. Meanwhile, the top port comes in handy for charging, even when the console is in tabletop mode, and it’s been showcased with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 camera.
As we look forward to the arrival of the Switch 2, these developments are set to redefine potential, both for developers crafting new adventures and avid gamers ready to explore them.
