Nvidia Boosts Nintendo Switch 2 Graphics by 10x with Custom GPU

As previously teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has shed light on the custom GPU that powers the Nintendo Switch 2, although the details provided were not as in-depth as tech enthusiasts might have hoped. In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed that its GPU enables AI upscaling via DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and ray tracing, aligning with earlier reports from IGN based on information directly from Nintendo.

Nvidia's DLSS technology leverages AI to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time, enhancing both performance and visual quality in games. The company described the Switch 2's GPU 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 extensive 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 the capability for 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The Nintendo Switch 2 also supports HDR and utilizes AI upscaling to enhance visuals and gameplay smoothness. The integration of RT Cores allows for real-time ray tracing, which delivers lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows, enriching the gaming experience with more immersive worlds. Meanwhile, Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, boosting resolution for sharper details without compromising image quality.

Nvidia also mentioned that Tensor Cores enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal in video chat scenarios, enhancing social gaming and streaming. During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, a new feature for chat functionality that uses an external camera and the Switch 2's built-in microphone. This technology is designed to focus on the player's voice while filtering out background noise, improving communication during gameplay.

Nvidia boldly claimed that the Nintendo Switch 2 offers "10x the graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch," promising smoother gameplay and sharper visuals. However, the specifics of how this performance was measured were not disclosed, leaving it to experts like Digital Foundry to analyze once the Switch 2 launches in June.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

91 Images

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

During 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 which version or if it had been customized. Similarly, they acknowledged the GPU's ray tracing capabilities without delving into 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 hardware specifications, suggesting that Nvidia would share more technical details.

Earlier in January, a patent filed in July 2023 but published this year hinted at AI image upscaling technology that could keep game download sizes small enough for physical cartridges while offering 4K textures. For further insights, explore everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and learn what the experts have to say about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.