In the wake of a mixed reception for Skyrim's port, Fallout 4's arrival on Switch 2 has proven to be a pleasant surprise. Initially, the Nintendo Direct trailer painted a grim picture, but the end product is a faithful adaptation of the PS4/Xbox One game, complete with all six DLCs.
One of the standout features is the Switch 2's ability to target multiple frame rates: 30fps, 40fps (for 120Hz displays), and even 60fps. This flexibility is available in both docked and handheld modes. However, it's essential to note that the quality settings, such as textures and shadows, remain static across these modes, with resolutions varying based on the chosen frame rate.
In docked mode, the game targets 1440p, surpassing the PS4's 1080p. Conversely, the performance mode drops to around 720p in chaotic scenes. The handheld experience mirrors this, with the 30fps mode maxing out at 1080p, while the 60fps mode ranges from 504p to 900p, depending on the load.
Despite some visual cutbacks, such as reduced draw distances and more noticeable pop-in, the overall graphical fidelity matches that of the Xbox Series S and PS5. However, performance fluctuations in the 60fps mode can lead to frame-rate drops during intense moments, making the 30fps mode a more stable choice. The 40fps mode emerges as a balanced alternative, offering improved image quality and consistency without the erratic performance of the 60fps mode.
Portable play benefits from the Switch 2's variable refresh rate (VRR), making the 60fps option more feasible, though not without its own frame-rate issues. Ultimately, while the 60fps mode may push the system's limits, the introduction of the 40fps mode positions the Switch 2 as a commendable platform for Fallout 4.
This port is a significant improvement over early expectations, and while some visual bugs remain, it stands as a recommendation for fans of the series.
One of the standout features is the Switch 2's ability to target multiple frame rates: 30fps, 40fps (for 120Hz displays), and even 60fps. This flexibility is available in both docked and handheld modes. However, it's essential to note that the quality settings, such as textures and shadows, remain static across these modes, with resolutions varying based on the chosen frame rate.
In docked mode, the game targets 1440p, surpassing the PS4's 1080p. Conversely, the performance mode drops to around 720p in chaotic scenes. The handheld experience mirrors this, with the 30fps mode maxing out at 1080p, while the 60fps mode ranges from 504p to 900p, depending on the load.
Despite some visual cutbacks, such as reduced draw distances and more noticeable pop-in, the overall graphical fidelity matches that of the Xbox Series S and PS5. However, performance fluctuations in the 60fps mode can lead to frame-rate drops during intense moments, making the 30fps mode a more stable choice. The 40fps mode emerges as a balanced alternative, offering improved image quality and consistency without the erratic performance of the 60fps mode.
Portable play benefits from the Switch 2's variable refresh rate (VRR), making the 60fps option more feasible, though not without its own frame-rate issues. Ultimately, while the 60fps mode may push the system's limits, the introduction of the 40fps mode positions the Switch 2 as a commendable platform for Fallout 4.
This port is a significant improvement over early expectations, and while some visual bugs remain, it stands as a recommendation for fans of the series.
