Cyberpunk 2077 handheld Nintendo Switch 2 performance has some Steam Deck owners envious

It's common for Nintendo to release footage of Switch 2 games using docked mode. While this presents these titles in their best form, performance in handheld mode is more of a question. With an enhanced GPU boosting the Switch 2 specs, running demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 becomes realistic. Gamers now have extensive YouTube footage from Deck Wizard featuring the action RPG. The video shows a higher sustained frame rate than most Steam Deck players experience.

For most of the demo, the work-in-progress Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition runs at 40 fps, with occasional drops. Deck Wizard's video displayed the game's menus, revealing that Performance Mode was active. While other Switch 2 system settings remain a mystery, the demo impressed some skeptical Steam Deck owners.

Cyberpunk 2077 is Steam Deck Verified, meaning gamers can expect satisfactory performance. Still, without tweaks, most sessions max out at 30 fps. As players encounter the most detailed environments, choppiness is not uncommon.

The handheld demo of the CD Projekt Red title may exceed expectations based on known Switch 2 specs. Digital Foundry compared the console and the Steam Deck using Switch 2 gameplay videos. The site anticipated the system might rival Valve's portable PC or the PS4. However, concerns were that a lower power draw could limit the Switch 2 when undocked. Even if the resolution is 720p, the Deck Wizard video is a promising early look at mobile Switch 2 performance.

Less than two months from its release date, gamers still wonder about some key Switch 2 capabilities. Most leaks suggest it will employ the Nvidia Tegra T239 processor, with the added benefit of DLSS support. It's believed that the feature hasn't yet been a factor in other gameplay videos. Some shininess in the Deck Wizard footage might indicate some form of upscaling was active, which could help Cyberpunk 2077 achieve 40 fps.