Back in early April, fans of the Nintendo Switch 2 were buzzing about the mention of variable refresh rate (VRR) on the console's informational pages, which mysteriously vanished soon after. Now, Nintendo has stepped forward to clarify the situation regarding VRR functionality on the Nintendo Switch 2.
In a statement provided to NintendoLife, Nintendo addressed the confusion: "Nintendo Switch 2 supports VRR in handheld mode only. The incorrect information was initially published on the Nintendo Switch 2 website, and we apologize for the error." When asked about future VRR support for docked mode, Nintendo remained tight-lipped, stating they have "nothing to announce on this topic."
This means that while the Nintendo Switch 2 will indeed offer VRR as an option when playing in handheld mode, those planning to connect their console to a TV won't benefit from this feature at launch. The clarification comes after much speculation, following the initial mention of VRR which was spotted and subsequently removed. Digital Foundry contributor Oliver Mackenzie documented the gradual disappearance of these references across various websites.
Although this news might disappoint those eager for VRR support in TV mode right out of the gate, it's worth noting that hope isn't entirely lost. Sony, for instance, introduced VRR support to the PS5 via a post-launch update, suggesting that Nintendo might follow suit with a similar firmware update for the Switch 2 in the future.
In other developments surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2, the company has announced a list of games that will receive free performance upgrades on the new console. This list includes titles such as Pokémon Scarlet & Violet and Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury. Additionally, Nintendo of America's president, Doug Bowser, has reassured fans that the company will have sufficient Switch 2 units available to meet demand "through the holidays."
