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

As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has now shed light on the custom GPU powering the Nintendo Switch 2, though it didn't dive as deep into the technical specifics as enthusiasts might have hoped.

In a detailed blog post, Nvidia corroborated earlier reports from IGN, confirming that the Switch 2's GPU supports AI upscaling through DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and ray tracing. DLSS leverages AI to enhance game performance and image quality by upscaling lower-resolution images in real time.

Nvidia provided a bit more insight into 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." They emphasized the extensive effort behind the console, 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."

Among these upgrades, the Switch 2 offers up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. It also supports HDR and AI upscaling, which enhances visual clarity and smoothness in gameplay. The inclusion of new RT Cores enables real-time ray tracing, enhancing lighting, reflections, and shadows for a more immersive gaming experience. Meanwhile, Tensor Cores power DLSS and other AI-driven features, boosting resolution for sharper details without compromising image quality.

Nvidia also highlighted that 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 utilizes an external camera and the Switch 2’s built-in microphone for new chat functionality. This 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." While the specifics of this performance metric remain undisclosed, experts like Digital Foundry are expected to analyze these claims once the Switch 2 launches in June.

Nvidia further noted 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.

In a hardware-focused roundtable Q&A in New York, Nintendo confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but remained vague about the specific version or any customizations for the console. Similarly, they confirmed the Switch 2’s GPU supports ray tracing without delving into further details. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division, emphasized that Nintendo focuses more on the value provided to consumers rather than the hardware specifics, leaving some technical details to be shared by their partner, Nvidia.

A patent spotted in January, filed in July 2023, described AI image upscaling technology aimed at reducing game download sizes to fit on physical cartridges while offering up to 4K textures.

For more information, check out everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct and expert analyses on the Switch 2 price and the $80 price tag for Mario Kart World.

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