Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2: a cutting-edge game adapts well to Nintendo's hybrid console

: Cyberpunk 2077's adaptation for Nintendo's Switch 2 is a technical feat, allowing both docked and portable play despite high demands from its open-world design. The game includes the core adventure and the challenging Phantom Liberty expansion, using cutting-edge DLSS upscaling, unique optimizations, and advanced rendering techniques. Though triumphantly rivaling PS5 and Xbox Series S in many aspects, it still faces hurdles with frame-rate drops during high-intensity scenes, particularly in Phantom Liberty's Dog Town region. Regardless, Switch 2 impressively matches or surpasses PS4 in texture quality, streaming capabilities, and utilizes both Joy-Con and mouse control options, promising a generally smooth experience.

Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition on Nintendo Switch 2 marks a significant technical milestone, bringing a graphically demanding AAA game to a portable console without major compromise. Developed directly by CD Projekt Red, this version includes the Phantom Liberty expansion and utilizes DLSS to maintain a steady 40 FPS in most situations. When docked, the game renders up to 1080p, while handheld mode dynamically scales from 360p to 810p depending on performance needs.

The visual fidelity is surprisingly close to current-gen standards. Textures, lighting effects, and the iconic atmosphere of Night City remain intact, retaining the immersive feel of the original. While some effects like real-time reflections and dense crowd simulations have been scaled back, they don’t break the illusion or immersion for handheld players.

Performance-wise, the game offers two modes. Performance mode achieves around 40 FPS consistently with minor dips during intense combat or fast driving. Quality mode locks the game at 30 FPS both docked and handheld, with occasional drops in more demanding expansion areas. Despite these limitations, most reviewers agree that the experience feels smooth and enjoyable on the go.

Control schemes have been reworked for the hybrid console. Gyroscopic aiming, motion-assisted melee combat, and an optional mouse-mode for UI navigation help the title feel at home on Switch 2. CD Projekt Red also added cross-save support and streamlined settings to ensure players can easily transfer and tweak their experience.

This port sets a new standard for large-scale RPGs on portable platforms. While it doesn’t match PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X in raw power, it rivals the Xbox Series S and outperforms previous-generation consoles in many ways. Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2 shows how far mobile gaming has come, offering a rich and responsive experience that feels remarkably close to the original vision.

Sources: Eurogamer, Tom’s Guide, MeriStation, Times of India