CDPR drops a 37-minute video of Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2 - what did we learn?

CD Projekt RED shows Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2 with dynamic visuals and stable performance in a 37-minute video.

: CD Projekt RED has shared 37 minutes of Cyberpunk 2077 footage on the upcoming Switch 2, showcasing impressive 4K graphics in docked mode. The footage captures various gameplay scenes like driving and combat, maintaining a stable 30fps despite occasional dips in frame rate during high-speed city traversals. It emphasizes the DLSS technology used to upscale visual quality to 1080p, contrasting it with the Series S and PS4 versions. Switch 2 demonstrates competitive visuals and minor differences in effects, highlighting CDPR's optimization efforts before the game's June 5th release.

CD Projekt RED has released a substantial video showcasing 37 minutes of Cyberpunk 2077 gameplay on the Nintendo Switch 2. This footage gives a much-anticipated preview of how the game performs and looks on the new platform, leveraging the Switch 2's Tegra 239 processor alongside NVIDIA's DLSS upscaling technology. The use of DLSS allows the game to reach a 1080p resolution in docked mode, delivering a smoother visual experience compared to the dynamic pixel counts observed in certain scenarios.

In detail, the video displays a variety of gameplay scenarios, ranging from high-speed vehicular sequences to intricate combat and mission set-pieces. While the game maintains a steady 30 frames per second, certain instances, particularly during fast-driving scenes through Night City's bustling streets, showcase frame rates dropping into the 20-30fps range. Notably, these dips are associated with AI cars clustering on the roads, a point of interest for further testing upon the game's release on June 5.

The footage further amplifies the graphical capabilities of the Switch 2 by comparing image quality with the legacy PlayStation 4 and the Xbox Series S, particularly noting the former's limitations with geometry pop-in and frame rate inconsistencies. With the Switch 2's DLSS application, image cleanliness, and pixel density improvements are highlighted, reducing the visual noise and shimmer seen in companion console releases, which still utilize older rendering technologies.

The video also unveils some optimization strategies adopted by CDPR for the Switch 2 version, such as the nuanced handling of texture quality, shadowing through ambient occlusion, and object detail persistence despite lower rendering resolutions. Although some graphical elements like lens flare are absent compared to Series S, the optimization efforts present across most core settings align closely with those found on more powerful consoles, a testament to the developers' commitment to technical excellency.

Ultimately, this preview sets a promising tone for Cyberpunk 2077 on the Switch 2. CD Projekt RED's strategic use of DLSS and the technical prowess of their optimization techniques render the game as an enticing entry for the platform. As June 5 approaches, anticipation builds, inviting players to observe how these early learnings translate into the final product.

Sources: CD Projekt RED, Nintendo, Digital Foundry

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