Analysis finds Switch 2 specs massively boost Pokémon Scarlet and Violet performance and confirms DLSS

Nintendo promised that Pokémon Scarlet and Violet would see upgrades thanks to improved Switch 2 specs. Still, some gamers were skeptical until the console and upgrade patch became available. Many players who abandoned the 2022 title are now finding the game is much more playable. A new Digital Foundry tech analysis details what impact the Switch 2 has on the creature-hunting RPG.

Before the Switch 2 release date, Nintendo revealed Pokémon Scarlet and Violet footage taken on the new handheld. It appeared that the game was running at 60 fps, addressing one of the criticisms of the original release. Digital Foundry confirmed that the Switch 2 game meets that goal, though frame drops are common when exploring open-world areas. Gamers can expect more fluid graphical rendering in docked and handheld modes.

The increase in resolution with the Pokémon game is a bit less impressive when played on the go. Handheld mode operates at around 648p, utilizing DRS (Dynamic Resolution Scaling) to achieve 1080p resolution. Meanwhile, without DRS, the docked Switch 2 upscales 1080p visuals to 4K on compatible displays. There was evidence of a basic implementation of DLSS upscaling throughout the tests.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet also now exhibits less choppy animations, even when viewed from afar. Yet, the Switch 2 specs with a custom Nvidia T239 processor and increased memory capacity have their limits. Some players complained about the bland textures, which made the Game Freak title seem outdated when it debuted. More horsepower alone won't result in environments as convincing as more cutting-edge competition.

Nintendo's update is free, and most players appreciate the dramatically enhanced performance. Nevertheless, on October 16th, Pokémon Legends: Z-A could offer the current-gen experience fans have been craving for.