Tech Experts: Nintendo Switch 2 GameChat Impacts System Resources Significantly, Final Specs Unveiled

The tech experts at Digital Foundry have unveiled the final tech specifications for the Nintendo Switch 2, highlighting a significant concern regarding the GameChat feature's impact on system resources. Developers are reportedly worried about how this feature might affect the overall performance of the console.

During last month’s Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the Switch 2's GameChat functionality, which is activated by pressing the C button on the new Joy-Con. This feature allows players to watch each other playing the same or different games and, with the aid of a camera, even see each other. The built-in microphone ensures reliable communication regardless of the players' gaming environments. The C button's chat menu is designed to be an all-in-one multiplayer feature, potentially marking Nintendo's most successful online initiative in decades.

Digital Foundry noted that Nintendo provides developers with a GameChat testing tool that simulates API latency and L3 cache misses, allowing developers to test the feature's impact without needing active GameChat sessions. This raises questions about whether GameChat affects game performance for end users. If GameChat resources are within the system allocation, it shouldn't impact performance. However, the provision of GameChat emulation tools suggests there might be a performance hit that developers need to account for.

As Digital Foundry stated, "We'll be interested to see how GameChat may (or may not) impact game performance as this does seem to be an area of developer concern." The true impact won't be known until the Switch 2's release on June 5.

Meanwhile, Digital Foundry revealed the Switch 2's final tech specs. The Switch 2 has a Memory System Reservation of 3GB, leaving 9GB available for games. In comparison, the original Switch has a 0.8GB Memory System Reservation and 3.2GB available for games. This indicates a substantial portion of the Switch 2’s resources are reserved for system use, as is common with all consoles.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

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The Switch 2 features a 7.9-inch wide color gamut LCD screen capable of outputting at 1080p (1920x1080). This is a significant upgrade from the original Switch's 6.2-inch screen, the Switch OLED's 7-inch screen, and the Switch Lite's 5.5-inch screen. Additionally, it supports HDR10 and VRR up to 120 Hz, allowing games to run at up to 120fps if supported.

When docked, the Switch 2 can play games in 4K (3840x2160) at 60fps or 1080p/1440p (1920x1080/2560x1440) at 120fps. These enhanced graphics are facilitated by a "custom processor made by NVIDIA."

For a comprehensive look at the Switch 2's specifications, Digital Foundry's detailed analysis is highly recommended.