Nvidia Says Its Custom GPU Means Nintendo Switch 2 Has 10x the Graphics Performance of the Nintendo Switch

As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has now shed light on the custom GPU powering the Nintendo Switch 2. While the details were not as exhaustive as tech enthusiasts might have hoped, Nvidia's revelations are still exciting. In a blog post, Nvidia confirmed the rumors reported by IGN earlier in the day: the GPU features AI upscaling via DLSS and ray tracing capabilities.

Nvidia's DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) is a cutting-edge technology that leverages artificial intelligence to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time, significantly enhancing both the performance and visual quality of games. The Switch 2's GPU is described by Nvidia as a "custom Nvidia processor featuring an Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores," which are responsible for delivering stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements.

Nvidia emphasized the extensive development effort behind the Switch 2, mentioning "1,000 engineer-years of effort across every element — from system and chip design to a custom GPU, APIs, and world-class development tools." This has resulted in major upgrades for the console, including the ability to support up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. Additionally, the Switch 2 supports HDR and AI upscaling, which helps to sharpen visuals and smooth gameplay.

The inclusion of RT Cores enables real-time ray tracing, which enhances the realism of in-game environments through lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows. Meanwhile, Tensor Cores power AI-driven features such as DLSS, improving resolution and detail without compromising image quality. These cores also enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal for video chat, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences.

During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, which facilitates new chat functionality using an external camera and the Switch 2's built-in microphone. This technology intelligently focuses on the player's voice while filtering out background noise.

Nvidia made a bold claim about the Switch 2, stating it offers "10x the graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch," promising smoother gameplay and sharper visuals. However, specifics on how this performance was measured were not provided, leaving it to experts like Digital Foundry to verify once the Switch 2 launches in June.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

91 Images

Nvidia also highlighted that the Tensor Cores enhance AI-powered graphics while maintaining efficient power consumption, and the RT Cores improve in-game realism with dynamic lighting and natural reflections. The Switch 2 supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode, ensuring ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.

In a hardware-focused roundtable Q&A in New York, attended by IGN, Nintendo representatives confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but did not specify the version or any customizations made for the console. Similarly, they confirmed the GPU's ray tracing capabilities but remained vague on specifics. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division and Senior Director at its Technology Development Department, emphasized Nintendo's focus on consumer value over detailed hardware specifications, stating, "Nintendo doesn't share too much on the hardware spec... But I do believe that our partner Nvidia will be sharing some information."

A patent spotted in January, filed in July 2023 and published earlier this year, described AI image upscaling technology that could keep video game download sizes manageable for physical game cartridges while providing up to 4K textures.

For more details, explore everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and discover what the experts have to say about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World's $80 price tag.