The graphics of the Nintendo Switch 2 were one of the most discussed features before the launch. After spending time seeing them by myself in Paris, I can say that it is worth waiting … but maybe not for the reason you think.
While yes, the console now supports 4K graphics in moored mode, this is not what I took most remarkable. It is the support of 60FPS, a pivot upgrade on the 30 images per second observed on the original switch for most titles. Although Switch 2 can touch 120 frames per second, it is not possible in 4K resolution.
The result is smoother and more crisp visuals that make such a difference for the gameplay experience. This was particularly noticeable during the dedicated SWITCH 2 version of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, where Link's movements were so much more snapping compared to video sequences on a personal OG switch.
Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry
Other environmental visuals – such as water splashes, or the spores of Ganon of disturbing red calamity – also shine much more on this new console.
Admittedly, these new games have also benefited from other boosts, including HDR support for brighter and more daring colors, a 120 Hz refreshment rate and of course this additional power under the hood to ensure a more fluid experience.
However, the lack of hoppiness is so welcome. I particularly noticed this when I played the demo of the Switch 2 version of Breath of the Wild, breaking through the Lush forest of Korok without bursting or offbeat in sight.
And it is not only Zelda where these additional image frequencies come into play. My first practical experience was with Mario Kart World, and I found that I was able to react more quickly to red shells and other various obstacles thanks to these fast visuals.
It is more difficult to make a direct comparison for Mario Kart World and Mario Kart 8, because it is a whole new game with fresh mechanisms such as changing weather and new race race. What I can say is that he looks beautiful, and I believe that it will be one of the most important – of this console.
Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry
More importantly, Zelda and Mario looked impressive when moored and in portable mode. If you were one of the disappointed people that this screen is LCD rather than OLED and 1080P, let me make sure that you will always see a marked improvement of the latest generation, in particular thanks to this larger 7.9-inch display (which, by the way, does not seem heavier to hold).
I also obtained the confirmation of a representative of Nintendo that the new Mario Kart generates up to 60 frames per second in portable mode, although they were unable to comment specifically the frequency of images of one or the other of the titles of Zelda at that time, only that the image frequencies were smoother.
There is still no word on an OLED version of the Switch 2 – as a reminder, the variant of the original model took four years to hit the shelves after the Switch 1, so let's take things one step at a time.
So, if you want to move on to these new improved versions of Zelda games in the open world, how much will it cost you?
The prices of the United Kingdom and the United States have not yet dropped, but Metro reported that the Japanese Yen figure conversions are translated into around £ 8 £ / $ 10 and $ 15, depending on the game, the two titles of Zelda ending at the lower end.
However, keep in mind that conversations are not always specific estimates – prices could be higher. As Mario Kart World is a brand new title, it costs $ 80 in the United States and starts from £ 67 in the United Kingdom, although there are bundles available with the new console if you want a day title.
Nintendo organized my trip to Paris. I accepted, because there were no alternative means to obtain practical time with the Switch 2 at the launch. There was no prior condition on what I write or how I assess the device.
