We recently reported on the first look at some new screenshots from Pokémon Scarlet and Violet running on the Switch 2, but Nintendo Japan has gone ahead and provided more details on what these free updates for the next generation of Nintendo hardware will improve. Whilst still being unnecessarily vague on specifics like frame rate and resolution, machine translation on a new Nintendo webpage reveals that “you can now see Pokémon from further away”, confirming improved draw distance in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet on Switch 2.
They also specify “improved frame rates and other features”, and state “the movement is smoother”. We imagine smoother movement just relates to a smoother frame rate, but as Nintendo is being so vague about what the improvements are, we’re not sure. We know that the free Switch 2 update for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet will improve image resolution and frame rate, but we don’t actually know what the new resolution or frame rate will be – just that they’re “improved”.
Famously, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet ran very poorly on the original Switch. This means an “improved” version could just be a solid 1080p resolution at consistent 30 frames per second, but it could also suggest a hugely improved 4K resolution with smooth 60 frames per second gameplay. Early screenshots received by Serebii do have a 4K resolution, but the same photos on Nintendo’s official site from the latest update are a mere 720p. Nintendo has been avoiding using specific numbers in all their marketing for every Switch 2 release, with the only exception being Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, due to it having a 120 FPS mode that Nintendo has specifically highlighted.
We’re looking forward to revisiting Paldea with whatever improvements it may have, we just wish Nintendo were a little more clear about them! Will you be revisiting Pokémon Scarlet and Violet on Switch 2? Let us know all your thoughts in the comments down below, and keep your eyes on GameLuster for more breaking gaming news and Switch 2 coverage.
