Sure thing, let’s dive into this. So, imagine this scene — a game release, like Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, that’s a bit like when you’re expecting smooth sailing, but nope, you get this bumpy ride instead. I mean, seriously, think of those shoddy releases that make you cringe. But here’s the kicker: Scarlet & Violet was pretty darn epic, except it ran like my old VHS tapes that sometimes just didn’t.
Flashback to 2022: I called out the game’s “super-effective new vision” (yep, Pokémon pun intended), but wow, did it deserve better than those Lego-movie windmills and cliffsides ripped from a Nintendo 64 fever dream.
Fast forward three years. Now, they’re dropping this massive Switch 2 update — it’s like a high-energy concert where everything’s finally in tune. I gotta say, if Scarlet & Violet were rocking back in 2022, this update’s like cranking it up to eleven.
Got this invite from The Pokémon Company to check out the Switch 2 version early — I know, right? They invited me, the loud critic of their OG performance. And friends, let me tell you, the difference is wild. I challenge anyone who says frame rates don’t matter to flip between versions. As Joe, a buddy from Serebii, would put it: you won’t go back.
Cue YouTube clip here — or not, whatever works.
So, on Switch 2, imagine a world where Pokémon backdrops don’t hit slideshow mode — those windmills spin like, well, actual windmills now. The visuals? Oh, they’re crispy like fresh potato chips, and the frame rate’s solid, at least 60fps almost all the time. It’s like being on a rollercoaster that doesn’t make you wanna hurl.
And this isn’t just about showing off. It’s a game-changer in how it feels. Scarlet & Violet were meant to be these sprawling epics — think Skyrim meets Pokémon. But back then, the stuttering frame rates ruined the vibe, y’know? Now, it’s like the game finally found its stride.
Tech upgrades aside, these changes? They seriously boost gameplay. Wild Pokémon now swarm like crazy over the fields without lagging into oblivion. Menus that once tested your patience are now zippy. Ever noticed how those Pokémon Box icons seemed to lag? Not anymore.
Plus, the battles, oh man. Back then, some attack animations would tank the frame rate. Not anymore. Yet, let’s not kid ourselves, it’s not all peaches and cream. Details still pop in a bit late when you’re galloping through — yeah, imagine flowers just appearing outta nowhere. Not cool.
And now, that the game’s running smooth, you really notice the art style. Maybe it’s me, but it could use a little tightening. HDR helps, though; Paldea looks like it’s jumped out of a comic book.
When you piece it together, this is what Scarlet & Violet should’ve been. It feels… like the best Pokémon yet? At least for the 3D ones. Playing at 60fps feels almost like breaking the rules. But hey, this is how these games should be enjoyed. And with such improvements, I’m all pumped up for Pokémon Legends Z-A now!
And there we go, that’s the gist!
