NVIDIA has shared new details on the Nintendo Switch 2 architecture and how the two companies collaborated to create the custom NVIDIA GPU found in the new console. In a blog post, NVIDIA says that the custom chip is a combined effort of over 1,000 engineering years of effort across every element.
Essentially, this NVIDIA GPU inside the Nintendo Switch 2 is one-of-a-kind. It is an exclusive contract between NVIDIA and Nintendo which resulted in a GPU that can play Switch and Switch 2 games while at the same time, offer raytracing with RT Cores and DLSS with Tensor Cores.
The Switch 2 does make use of DLSS upscaling on certain games which uses AI to increase the resolution of certain games to meet the 1080p handheld display and the 4K docked output. In addition, DLSS allows the Switch 2 to output up to 4K 120Hz on compatible TVs.
The blog post doesn’t go into much detail on the exact specifications of the Switch 2 chip. There’s no mention of the number of RT Cores and Tensor Cores the console has or the GPU power. NVIDIA doesn’t even mention the RAM. However, the company claims the Switch 2 has 10x the power and performance of the original Switch.
The main focus of the post is to basically confirm that NVIDIA worked on the chip for the console. One cool piece of information, however, is the confirmation that the Nintendo Switch 2 display includes VRR. The post says that Variable Refresh Rate is enabled in handheld mode thanks to G-Sync to ensure ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.
We also recently learnt that Cyberpunk 2077 will run at 40FPS on the Nintendo Switch when in handheld mode. The 40FPS combined with the 120Hz display and VRR means this will likely result in an incredibly smooth experience from a visual perspective.
As more details come out of the Switch 2’s tech, we’ll share them. We are also attending a media event in London next week where we’ll get hands-on with the console. Stick around for updates on that.
Source: NVIDIA
