The Switch 2's first year has been a thrilling journey, with every third-party port telling a unique story about the system's capabilities. Let's dive into this exciting narrative!
The Switch 2: Unveiling the Secrets
Nintendo, as always, kept us guessing about the Switch 2's technical prowess. We knew it boasted a crisp 7.9-inch 1080p screen capable of 120fps and HDR, but that was about it. Nvidia hinted at DLSS, a feature that could upscale games regardless of their native resolution, but the real question remained: What games would this powerful machine handle?
The 'Impossible' Ports
The Switch 2's launch saw the arrival of several 'impossible' ports - games originally designed for much more powerful hardware. Titles like Wolfenstein 2, Hellblade, and The Witcher 3 made their way onto the system, each translated with meticulous care. It was a testament to the Switch 2's capabilities, and a thrilling experience to witness these visually-intensive games running smoothly on a handheld device.
Cyberpunk 2077: A Referendum on Future Ports
One of the most exciting releases on the Switch 2 was Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition. This heavily updated version of the 2020 game, which struggled on PS4 and Xbox One, became a benchmark for the Switch 2's potential. If it could handle Cyberpunk, what other games could the system conquer?
The port turned out to be excellent, a significant improvement over The Witcher 3 on the original Switch. It ran smoothly and looked fantastic, leaving many impressed. However, not all ports were created equal. Some, like EA FC and NBA 2K, ran at a mere 30fps, while Persona 3 Reload suffered from frame-pacing issues. These weaker ports serve as a reminder that not every game will push the system to its limits.
The Best Port of the Year: Star Wars Outlaws
The true standout of the first year was Star Wars Outlaws, handled by Ubisoft's RedLynx team. This game, originally released on PC and next-gen consoles in 2024, arrived on the Switch 2 in excellent shape. It has since been patched and improved, performing exceptionally well against other systems. The game's performance on the Switch 2 is a testament to the system's capabilities, and leaves us wondering what other surprises the future holds.
Looking Ahead: More Ports, More Dreams
With the announcement of more significant ports in 2026, we can expect to learn even more about the Switch 2's potential. Games like Elden Ring, 007 First Light, and Final Fantasy 7 Remake will provide further insights. For now, we can only speculate and dream about the 'impossible' ports that might become possible in the years to come.
What do you think? Are you excited about the Switch 2's future? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
