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 that powers the Nintendo Switch 2, though the level of detail provided did not meet the expectations of tech enthusiasts. In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed what IGN had earlier reported from Nintendo: the GPU features AI upscaling technology via DLSS and ray tracing capabilities.

Nvidia DLSS, or Deep Learning Super Sampling, utilizes AI and machine learning to upscale lower-resolution images in real time, thereby enhancing both performance and visual quality in games. Nvidia elaborated on the Switch 2's GPU, describing it as a "custom Nvidia processor featuring an Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores for stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements."

Nvidia highlighted the immense effort behind the Switch 2, stating, "With 1,000 engineer-years of effort across every element — from system and chip design to a custom GPU, APIs, and world-class development tools — the Nintendo Switch 2 brings major upgrades." These upgrades include support for up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The Switch 2 also supports HDR and AI upscaling to enhance visuals and ensure smoother gameplay.

The inclusion of new RT Cores enables real-time ray tracing, which delivers "lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows for more immersive worlds." Meanwhile, the Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, which "boosts resolution for sharper details without sacrificing image quality." Interestingly, Nvidia also noted that these Tensor Cores facilitate AI-powered face tracking and background removal in video chat scenarios, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences.

During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, which supports new chat functionality by integrating an external camera and the Switch 2's built-in microphone. The technology is designed to focus on the player's voice while filtering out background noise.

Nvidia made a bold claim about the Switch 2's performance, stating, "With 10x the graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers smoother gameplay and sharper visuals." However, the specifics of this performance metric were not detailed, leaving it to experts like Digital Foundry to analyze once the Switch 2 is released in June.

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Nvidia further emphasized that the Tensor Cores "boost AI-powered graphics while keeping power consumption efficient," and the RT Cores "enhance in-game realism with dynamic lighting and natural reflections." Additionally, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode ensures "ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay."

At a hardware-focused roundtable Q&A in New York, attended by IGN, Nintendo confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but did not specify the version or any customizations. Similarly, they acknowledged the Switch 2's GPU capability for ray tracing but remained vague on the specifics. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division and Senior Director at its Technology Development Department, explained, "Nintendo doesn't share too much on the hardware spec. What we really like to focus on is the value that we can provide to our consumers. But I do believe that our partner Nvidia will be sharing some information."

In January, a patent filed in July 2023 and published earlier this year was discovered, describing AI image upscaling technology designed to keep video game download sizes small enough for physical game cartridges while offering up to 4K textures.

For more information, explore everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and read expert opinions on the Switch 2's price and the $80 price tag for Mario Kart World.