Koei Tecmo reveals Switch 2 specs aren't enough to run Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening at 4K/60 fps

Many games will benefit from enhanced Switch 2 specs. However, a Koei Tecmo developer for Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening suggests that some titles may not meet expectations. In a Wccftech interview, Michi Ryu explains how his team was unable to achieve smooth gameplay at 4K and 60 fps. Although they had to lower the graphical options significantly, the game doesn't employ DLSS upscaling.

Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition will debut on June 5th, the Switch 2 release date. The first Japanese grand strategy game revolutionized the genre in 1983 with a historical emphasis and RPG mechanics. Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening appeared in 2022 for the PC, PS4, and Switch. The Complete Edition adds new scenarios, DLC, and improved graphics.

According to Koei Tecmo producer and director Michi Ryu, Nintendo's latest console has evolved into a more capable handheld. Ryu discussed how the "sea, sky, and ground look much more real, enhancing the immersive experience of the game." Still, he had hopes of offering a 4K resolution mode with 60 fps visuals. Unfortunately, the Switch 2 specs weren't enough to render detailed 3D maps at that setting. Eventually, the developers settled on 1080p and 30 fps as a more realistic objective.

While disappointing, the fact that Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening will not use DLSS is significant. The console's Tegra T239 processor represents slightly older technology but supports Nvidia's upscaling. Switch 2 games like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition rely on DLSS in multiple handheld and docked modes. As a result, demos of the title have impressed, in some cases exceeding typical Steam Deck performance.

Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition does embrace the Switch 2's Joy-Con mouse mode. With wired USB mice also available, mobile strategy gamers will have the same advantages as PC players.