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

As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has now shed light on the custom GPU powering the Nintendo Switch 2, although it didn't delve into the depth of detail that tech enthusiasts were craving. In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed what IGN reported earlier from Nintendo: that the GPU supports AI upscaling through DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and ray tracing. DLSS is an innovative AI-powered technology that leverages machine learning to upscale lower-resolution images in real time, enhancing both performance and visual quality in games.

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." The company 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 up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The Switch 2 also supports HDR and AI upscaling, which helps sharpen visuals and smooth gameplay. Nvidia's new RT Cores enable real-time ray tracing, offering "lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows for more immersive worlds." Meanwhile, Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, "boosting resolution for sharper details without sacrificing image quality."

Interestingly, Nvidia mentioned that Tensor Cores also support AI-powered face tracking and background removal for video chat functionalities, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences. During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, designed for new chat functionality that integrates an external camera and the Switch 2's built-in microphone. Nintendo emphasized that this technology is smart enough to focus on the player's voice and filter 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." However, the specifics of how this performance metric was calculated were not disclosed. It's expected that experts like Digital Foundry will analyze this once the Switch 2 launches in June.

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Nvidia further noted that Tensor Cores "boost AI-powered graphics while keeping power consumption efficient," and 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, attended by IGN, Nintendo representatives confirmed the use of DLSS in the Switch 2 but did not specify the version or whether it had been customized for the new console. Similarly, they acknowledged the GPU's capability for ray tracing but remained vague on specifics. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division, and Senior Director at its Technology Development Department, explained Nintendo's approach, saying, "Nintendo doesn't share too much on the hardware spec. What we really like to focus on is the value that we can provide to our consumers. But I do believe that our partner Nvidia will be sharing some information."

In January, a patent filed in July 2023 and published earlier this year was spotted online, describing AI image upscaling technology designed to keep video game download sizes small enough for physical game cartridges while offering up to 4K textures.

For more information, explore everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and discover what the experts have to say about the Switch 2 price and Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag.