Which 15 Nintendo Switch Games Deserve a Switch 2 Upgrade?

Understanding the Performance Discrepancies of Nintendo Switch Games on Switch 2

In the gaming community, the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 has stirred excitement and curiosity about how well it performs compared to its predecessor. The new console has indeed displayed remarkable capabilities, allowing several games to run better than ever before. However, not every title has received the same treatment, leading to questions about why some popular games, such as Astral Chain and Luigi's Mansion 3, have not benefitted from performance upgrades. This article delves into the factors influencing game performance on the Switch 2, highlighting the titles that could see significant improvements and the reasons behind the current disparities.

The Switch 2: A New Era for Nintendo Games

With the introduction of the Nintendo Switch 2, players have eagerly explored the enhanced features of the console. From improved graphics to faster load times, the Switch 2 has positioned itself as the best platform for experiencing games originally designed for the Switch 1. Notably, several titles have already seen significant performance boosts through backward compatibility, elevating the gaming experience without the need for additional updates.

Backward Compatibility and Performance Boosts

One of the standout features of the Switch 2 is its backward compatibility, which allows players to access their existing library of Switch 1 games. Some titles, like Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, have benefited immensely from this transition. Players have reported smoother frame rates and better overall performance, which can transform how they engage with these games. However, this isn't a universal experience, as many titles remain unchanged despite the new hardware.

Why Not Every Game Benefits?

The inconsistency in performance upgrades across games has left many gamers puzzled. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

• Game Engine Limitations: Some games are built on engines that may not fully leverage the capabilities of the Switch 2.
• Developer Priorities: Developers may choose to focus their resources on new projects rather than optimizing older titles for newer hardware.
• Technical Challenges: Upgrading a game's performance may require significant technical adjustments that some developers are not willing or able to undertake.

Astral Chain: The Overlooked Gem

Astral Chain, developed by PlatinumGames, is often overshadowed by more prominent titles in the action genre. Despite its rich gameplay and unique aesthetic, it has not received a performance upgrade on the Switch 2. Many fans are left wondering why, especially given that other games from the same developer, like Bayonetta 3, have seen significant improvements. The hope remains that Nintendo will consider giving Astral Chain a second life, especially if a sequel is not in the works.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses and Engage

As a best-selling entry in the Fire Emblem series, Three Houses has garnered a dedicated fanbase. Yet, despite the Switch 2's capabilities, it remains locked at 30fps, which could be improved to enhance the overall experience. Fire Emblem Engage, while receiving faster loading times, has not benefited from any graphical upgrades, leaving players wanting more from their tactical role-playing experience.

Luigi’s Mansion 3: A Visual Marvel

Luigi’s Mansion 3 is celebrated for its stunning graphics, and while it may not require any updates, many fans still crave enhancements that could take advantage of the Switch 2’s new display and HDR support. An upgrade to 60fps would further elevate an already visually impressive game, showcasing the potential of the Switch 2.

Ubisoft and Mario + Rabbids Sparks Of Hope

Ubisoft's Mario + Rabbids Sparks Of Hope had anticipated a potential update following the Switch 2’s launch, especially since the original game had successfully made the transition to the new hardware with improved performance. However, the sequel has not seen similar treatment, leaving players disappointed and wondering whether Ubisoft plans to revisit this title in the future.

Monster Hunter Rise: A Call for Performance Patches

Monster Hunter Rise is a beloved title that has captivated many players; however, it remains locked at 30fps on Switch 1. While the Switch 2 offers improved stability and faster load times, a dedicated patch to enhance the frame rate would significantly elevate the gameplay experience. With Capcom focusing on future releases, there is hope for a dedicated upgrade that could breathe new life into this already popular game.

NieR: Automata: The Frustrating 30fps

The 2022 Switch port of NieR: Automata brought one of PlatinumGames' finest titles to Nintendo fans, yet it came with the significant limitation of a 30fps frame rate. As players transitioned to the Switch 2, many hoped for improvements in performance. Unfortunately, the game has encountered progress-blocking issues that have left many players frustrated. There is an expectation that future patches will address these concerns, allowing players to fully enjoy the game on the new console.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons: A Missed Opportunity

Animal Crossing: New Horizons quickly became a cultural phenomenon, yet its post-launch support was abruptly halted. While the Switch 2 has improved load times, the lack of graphical enhancements leaves players wanting more. Given the game's popularity, it feels like a missed opportunity for Nintendo to capitalize on the Switch 2's capabilities with a dedicated upgrade or a new release tailored for the new console.

Persona 5 Royal: Blurry Visuals

Persona 5 Royal stands as one of the best Japanese role-playing games, but its Switch port suffers from significant graphical compromises. With a resolution capped at just over 720p, the game appears blurry in handheld mode. The Switch 2's capabilities could easily support higher resolutions and frame rates, making the lack of updates even more disappointing for fans of this iconic title.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus: An Unfulfilled Potential

While Pokémon Scarlet & Violet have thrived on the Switch 2, Pokémon Legends: Arceus has not seen any meaningful updates. Although faster load times are a welcome improvement, the lack of performance enhancements leaves players wishing for a better experience that aligns more closely with the newer titles in the franchise.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: A Call for Upgrades

Despite its impressive performance on the original Switch, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has been constrained by a capped frame rate and graphical downgrades. With the Switch 2's capabilities, fans are eager for a dedicated upgrade that could enhance the game's visuals and performance, allowing it to shine on the new console.

Xenoblade Chronicles Series: A Need for Enhancements

Despite receiving a free patch, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 has not addressed existing performance issues. As a flagship Japanese role-playing series for Nintendo, fans had hoped for significant upgrades across the series. The absence of improvements raises questions about the future of the franchise on the Switch 2 and what fans can expect moving forward.

Conclusion: The Future of Game Upgrades on Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 has opened up new possibilities for gaming, allowing players to experience their favorite titles with improved performance. However, the inconsistency in how different games are treated raises questions about the future of game upgrades on the platform. While many players celebrate the enhancements, the absence of updates for beloved titles like Astral Chain and Luigi's Mansion 3 is a disappointment. As players look forward to potential patches and upgrades, they remain hopeful that developers will recognize the value of optimizing their games for the new hardware.

FAQs

Why do some Nintendo Switch games run better on the Switch 2 than others?

The performance of Nintendo Switch games on the Switch 2 varies due to factors such as game engine limitations, developer priorities, and technical challenges in optimizing older titles.

What games would benefit the most from a performance upgrade on Switch 2?

Titles like Astral Chain, Luigi’s Mansion 3, and Fire Emblem: Three Houses could significantly benefit from performance upgrades, enhancing their graphics and frame rates.

Will Nintendo release updates for older games on the Switch 2?

It is uncertain; while some games have received updates, others remain unchanged. Fans hope that developers will reconsider and offer enhancements for beloved titles.

How does backward compatibility work on the Switch 2?

Backward compatibility allows players to access their existing library of Switch 1 games on the Switch 2, often resulting in improved performance without the need for additional updates.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, how do you feel about the performance of your favorite titles on the Switch 2? What upgrades would you like to see in the future? #NintendoSwitch2 #GamingUpgrades #GamePerformance