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Update | Nintendo explains how Pokémon Scarlet and Violet benefits from Switch 2 specs, but frame rate is unclear

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet on Switch 2 mockup (Image source: Nintendo of America with edits)
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet on Switch 2 mockup (Image source: Nintendo of America with edits)
Choppy performance in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet often made finding and capturing creatures a chore. Nintendo has revealed how Switch 2 specs may lure trainers back to the title. Without specifics, fans of Pokémon games wonder if 60 fps is a possibility. Update: 60 fps now confirmed

June 02, 2025 04:46 PM GMT update:

The Nintendo Today! app has just released a new video of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet running on the Switch 2. The footage confirms that 60 fps will be an option on the new console.

Original article continues as follows:

Much of the attention is on Switch 2 games, with the Pokémon Legends: Z-A release date on October 16th. However, thanks to backward compatibility, original Switch titles will also see performance gains. Many critics panned Pokémon Scarlet and Violet for its technical issues when it arrived in 2022. On its Japanese site, Nintendo has detailed how Switch 2 specs will upgrade the open-world RPG. Unfortunately, critical questions about frame rate options remain unanswered.

On the June 5th Switch 2 release date, Nintendo will distribute a free Pokémon Scarlet and Violet update. According to the company, players "can now see Pokémon from further away, making them look even more vivid. With improved frame rates and other features, the movement is smoother, allowing you to enjoy your adventure comfortably." Readers have two screenshots to examine, but resolution and frame rate choices are unclear.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Switch 2 upgrade #1 (Image source: Nintendo of Japan)
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Switch 2 upgrade #1 (Image source: Nintendo of Japan)
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Switch 2 upgrade #2 (Image source: Nintendo of Japan)
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Switch 2 upgrade #2 (Image source: Nintendo of Japan)

When Pokémon Scarlet and Violet debuted in 2022, gamers immediately noticed visual hiccups. Frame rates often dipped below 30 fps, and pop-in and clipping were common. Nintendo has improved performance slightly with patches. Even so, the console struggles to render environments that are bustling with activity. Some players blame the developer, Game Freak, for the poorly optimized code in its Pokémon games. Also, the Switch's CPU and memory limitations likely contributed to these issues.

While Nintendo promises boosted frame rates, it doesn't confirm the 60 fps fans are clamoring for. If 1080p is available, it's also debatable how fluid gameplay will be. Switch 2 specs, including an Nvidia Tegra T239 processor and increased memory capacity, could eliminate choppiness. Still, unlike other Switch 2 games bundling paid upgrades, expectations are lower with the free Pokémon Scarlet and Violet patch.

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2025 05 > Nintendo explains how Pokémon Scarlet and Violet benefits from Switch 2 specs, but frame rate is unclear
Adam Corsetti, 2025-05-29 (Update: 2025-06- 3)