Donkey Kong Bananza performance review criticizes use of FSR 1 over DLSS and jarring frame rate drops

Digital Foundry has posted its performance-focused Donkey Kong Bananza review. While the site calls the Switch 2 game a step forward in the 3D platformer genre, it's not without technical snafus. John Linneman reveals that to some degree, the title doesn't utilize the upgraded Switch 2 specs.

Much of the criticism centers on the implementation of outdated FSR 1, rather than more effective DLSS upscaling. The colorful above-ground and subterranean environments are bursting with detail. Still, Linneman believes that visuals would have superior clarity using a more recent upscaler. The combination of FSR and the SMAA post-process anti-aliasing results in softer images than some gamers may have hoped for.

Notably, Digital Foundry preferred the performance of Donkey Kong Bananza in handheld mode. When docked, the Switch 2 game only achieves a resolution of up to 1200p, but often falls below that mark. Of course, the visual imperfections are more noticeable on larger displays.

When the Switch 2 converts to a handheld, the title runs at a consistent 1080p. VRR, which is incompatible with the dock, could also help to maintain fluid gameplay. Unfortunately, like with other Switch 2 games, the feature doesn't seem to work at 40 fps or under. That becomes an issue in Donkey Kong Bananza, as boss fights and certain animations take a significant toll on frame rates.

Linneman also blames double-buffered vsync for noticeable performance hiccups. Instead of less extreme drops to below 60 fps, the game instead renders visuals at 30 fps.

Thankfully, the graphical shortcomings didn't ruin the experience for Linneman. Glancing at its Metacritic rating, most Donkey Kong Bananza reviews judge the character and map designs as charming. Also, the destructible physics are a sight to behold, making players feel more connected to the game's virtual world. Nevertheless, with development starting on the original console, not all of the advantageous Switch 2 specs are on display.