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

As teased by Nintendo, Nvidia has now shed light on the custom GPU that powers the Nintendo Switch 2, though the details provided were not as in-depth as tech enthusiasts might have hoped. In a recent blog post, Nvidia confirmed what IGN had reported earlier from Nintendo: the GPU supports AI upscaling through DLSS and ray tracing capabilities.

Nvidia's DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) is a cutting-edge technology that leverages AI to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time, significantly enhancing both performance and visual quality in games. The Switch 2's GPU is described by Nvidia as a "custom Nvidia processor featuring an Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores," designed to deliver stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements.

Nvidia emphasized 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 support for up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. The console also supports HDR and AI upscaling to enhance visuals and smooth gameplay.

The inclusion of RT Cores enables real-time ray tracing, which Nvidia says delivers "lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows for more immersive worlds." Meanwhile, Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like DLSS, boosting resolution for sharper details without compromising image quality. Interestingly, Nvidia also mentioned that Tensor Cores enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal for video chat, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences.

During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo introduced the C button, which facilitates new chat functionality using an external camera and the Switch 2's built-in microphone. The 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." However, the specifics of how this performance was measured were not disclosed. It will be up to experts like Digital Foundry to analyze these claims once the Switch 2 launches in June.

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Nvidia further highlighted 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 which version or whether it had been customized. Similarly, they confirmed the GPU's ray tracing capabilities without providing detailed information. Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager at Nintendo’s Technology Development Division, and Senior Director at its Technology Development Department, explained Nintendo's approach to hardware disclosure, 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 discovered online, describing AI image upscaling technology that would help keep video game download sizes small enough to fit on a physical game cartridge while offering up to 4K textures.

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