Home / Technology / Switch 2 Update Boosts Old Games Visually
Switch 2 Update Boosts Old Games Visually
26 Mar
Summary
- New firmware update adds Handheld Mode Boost for Switch 1 games.
- Boost enables 1080p at 60fps, mimicking docked mode visuals.
- Activating the boost reduces battery life by 27%.
Nintendo has released firmware version 22.0.0 for the Switch 2, bringing a notable enhancement for backward compatibility. The update introduces Handheld Mode Boost, designed to improve the visual experience of Nintendo Switch 1 games when played on the newer console in handheld mode. This new feature addresses the issue of blurry graphics on the Switch 2's higher-resolution 1080p screen compared to the original 720p display.
When Handheld Mode Boost is activated, Switch 1 games will run at 1080p and 60 frames per second, mirroring the performance typically seen when the Switch 2 is docked. This provides a significant visual upgrade for classic titles. However, users should be aware of the impact on battery life. Initial testing indicates a 27% reduction in playtime, with battery life decreasing from approximately 5 hours to around 3 hours and 43 minutes when the boost is enabled.
