The launch of Cyberpunk 2077 on the new Nintendo Switch 2 marks a significant achievement for both the developer CD Projekt Red and the console itself. Known for its demanding open-world design, Cyberpunk 2077 puts the Switch 2’s capabilities to the test. This release features the Ultimate Edition of the game, which includes both the core story and the Phantom Liberty expansion—an addition that was previously deemed too demanding for last-gen consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One.
One standout aspect of the Switch 2 is its ability to run the game effectively in both portable and docked modes, though the inclusion of Phantom Liberty does push the system’s limits. While the core game maintains a stable performance at 30 frames per second (fps) in quality mode and targets 40 fps in performance mode, the expansion sees frame rates occasionally dipping below these benchmarks, particularly in the busy areas of Dog Town.
The Switch 2 offers four main configurations for gameplay, distinguished by resolution and frame rate. Notably, it supports Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling technology, enhancing image quality significantly compared to the PS4 version. This results in sharper details and a more refined visual experience, even against current-gen consoles like the Xbox Series S, where the Switch 2 occasionally exceeds texture quality.
Performance-wise, the Switch 2 has shown commendable results. It generally stays close to the 30 fps mark during intense gameplay, especially when compared to the PS4, which often struggles to maintain consistent frame rates. The resolution may scale back in handheld mode to maintain performance, but the core visual quality remains largely intact across both docked and portable play, aside from some reduced clarity in reflections in performance mode.
However, limitations exist, particularly with NPC and vehicle density, which mirrors last-gen capabilities rather than those of more advanced systems. In terms of shadows, the Switch 2 utilizes a unique rendering style that improves indoor shadows while struggling with outdoor shadow quality compared to PS5 and Series S.
Despite these drawbacks, the overall performance of Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2 represents a promising start for demanding titles on the console and highlights CD Projekt Red’s ability to optimize the game for new hardware. In addition, unique features such as Joy-Con mouse controls and USB mouse and keyboard support provide added gameplay flexibility.
With this strong launch title, there’s hope that the Switch 2 will pave the way for future ambitious projects, showcasing the potential of Nintendo’s latest hardware as a viable platform for complex open-world experiences.