Final Fantasy 16 Switch 2 port may surface in 2026, but game could tax console's specs

With the Final Fantasy 7 Remake enjoying strong sales, Square Enix may be looking to bring another entry in the series to the Switch 2. On a new podcast, NateTheHate2 revealed that the publisher is contemplating a Final Fantasy 16 port. However, since the RPG stresses the more powerful PS5 and Xbox Series X, optimizing it for the Nintendo handheld seems like a tall task.

Why might Square Enix target FF16 next?

The highly-regarded leaker predicted that 2026 will be a leap forward for third-party Switch 2 games. Square Enix could ship Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth before the end of the year. With progress made on the remake trilogy, it can turn its attention to FF16.

Reportedly, a handheld version wasn’t under consideration until more recently. Still, in June 2025, Creative Director Kazutoyo Maehiro hinted that it was a possibility.

Nintendo fans shouldn’t anticipate a shadowdrop for Final Fantasy 16 in the coming months. NateTheHate2 explained, “I don't know if it'll necessarily come out this year, but I wouldn't be surprised if it's announced this year.”

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade faced skepticism in the run-up to its Switch 2 release date. While performance has met expectations, FF16 would be a much greater accomplishment. On the PS5, performance mode struggles to maintain 60 fps, sacrificing texture quality. Many gamers prefer the 30 fps quality option, but combat often feels sluggish.

The visuals are also far from ideal on the more recent Xbox Series X port. Performance mode frame rates show consistency, but graphics become even blurrier. More relevant to the latest rumor, the game is not Steam Deck verified, producing choppy gameplay on Valve’s system.

Optimizing demanding Switch 2 games

Despite the obstacles, developers have pulled off some surprising feats on Nintendo’s handheld. As discussed on the podcast, Assassin's Creed Shadows, Star Wars Outlaws, and Cyberpunk 2077 are success stories. All take advantage of Switch 2 specs like DLSS upscaling support to overcome a lack of horsepower.

If Square Enix can rise to the challenge, a Final Fantasy 16 Switch 2 version could benefit other platforms. Gamers still have hope that the publisher will further optimize the game on PC, Xbox, and PS5.