In a recent Games Industry.biz article, various analysts made predictions regarding this year's big industry trends and potential news. With Nintendo currently doing very well with both the standard Switch, last year's handheld-only Switch Lite and software in general, opinion is divided among industry onlookers as to Nintendo's plans for 2020 and the long-rumoured Switch 'Pro'.
Sceptics argue that with the current models selling so well, Nintendo has little reason to muddy the waters and introduce a third SKU alongside the standard model and Switch Lite. The company had a very successful Holiday 2019 and making hay while the sun's shining is all well and good, but they'll also want to maintain momentum.
And let's speak plainly: Switch is starting to get long in the tooth
This time next year there'll be not one, but two shiny new consoles from Sony and Microsoft competing for retail space. While Nintendo has kept out of the console specs war for years now and successfully carved its own hybrid niche with Switch that's appealed to a wide spectrum of the gaming public, the plain fact is that holiday shoppers will have two brand new consoles to choose from come December 2020. Next to those, the OG Switch may start to look a little quaint or, worse, old.
And let's speak plainly: Switch is starting to get long in the tooth, at least in fast-moving games industry terms. The console will soon be entering its third year after launching in March 2017, and its main components were developed and finalised a long time before that. Last year's 'silent' revision of the standard model improved battery life and runs cooler (as well as closing a security hole present in the original SOC or 'system on a chip'), but there is plenty of room for significant changes. Our OG Switch is holding up fine, but as a portable system it's taken a few knocks here and there - it wouldn't take much for us to consider a cheeky upgrade.
Although no software announcements have been announced for the end of 2020 just yet - we're still waiting on the first Nintendo Direct of 2020 - we're sure Nintendo will have a strong gaming offering this Holiday season, but there's nothing quite like new sparkling hardware. We're all looking forward to Bayonetta 3, but it would pair even better with a shiny new Switch, no?
Potential Switch 'Pro' features - what are the rumours?
Analyst Dr. Serkan Toto believes an updated console is incoming this year. Writing in the aforementioned Games Industry Biz predictions article he states:
There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Nintendo will launch a "Switch Pro" in 2020, my guess is at $399. More specifically, I predict 4K support, bigger cartridge sizes, and of course beefed-up components. I also think the device will launch after the summer holidays to counter the roll-out of the PS5 and next-gen Xbox later in the year - along with a first-party, system-seller game.
It should be noted that he also predicted a 'Pro' model last year in addition to the Lite, so it's hardly a surprise he's doubling down on the same prediction in 2020.
A separate report from Taiwanese website DigiTimes has also claimed that a Switch 'Pro' model is planned for mid-2020 and is going into production in Q1. While the details behind this report are hard to substantiate and come from "sources from the related supply chain", analysis of Nvidia's Tegra chip revenues and Nintendo's Switch inventory by 'anonymous fund manager' PiranhaCapital does suggest that both companies are gearing up for something hardware-related later this year.
The features mentioned will prove exciting to gaming fans who would like to see Switch competing more directly with the competition, if only to enable more third-party support on Nintendo's system, but it's always wise to have a fistful of salt ready when it comes to Nintendo spec rumours. Every console cycle there are wishful whispers that this time Nintendo is rejoining the specs arm race. Remember when Switch was supposed to have twice the power of PS4? Or was it almost a match for Xbox One?
So, mindful of wishful thinking and misplaced enthusiasm, we thought we'd take a look at these predictions and ask you lovely people what you'd actually want from this ephemeral Switch 'Pro'. First we'll look at them one-by-one (plus a couple of extras we've added to the wishlist) and at the bottom you'll find some poll questions where you can vote for the things that you'd be excited for a new Switch SKU.
We begin with a feature we believe would be the hardest for Nintendo to pull off...
4K output (docked) or increased resolution
Of course, it would be great, although we're sceptical about how realistic Ultra HD is for Switch right now. The affordability and adoption rate of UHD televisions has meant that it's getting tough to find a new TV set that isn't 4K, but rendering another three HD screens' worth of pixels is one hell of a tech leap, which for a portable console sounds unfeasible - or more accurately unaffordable - right now.
we'd argue that the best we can hope for in terms of resolution increases is probably a modest boost that pushes games with dynamic resolutions much closer to the current 1080p maximum
More likely is a minor increase in resolution. The standard Switch outputs up to 1080p while docked, although a great many games fall well short of that resolution and the console's handheld screen is only 720p. We think the current Switch's screen holds up just fine thanks to its diminutive proportions, although a bump to 1080p wouldn't go amiss, especially if the screen itself grew in size (see below).
In isolation Switch still looks fine docked on 55-inch and larger TVs, but there's perhaps room for improvement via some of the upscaling tricks used by other current gen consoles to fudge their way to 4K. It seems unlikely given the company's stance historically, but if it was determined to somehow get '4K' on the packaging of a new Switch (the upcoming Sony and Microsoft systems promise native UHD out of the box), one potential solution might be to offload 4K signal output to a beefed up dock that could theoretically handle 4K upscaling while keeping the main console cool and trim.
That would likely introduce latency issues that would need to be overcome. We're still sceptical, but it's a potential workaround.
A more powerful CPU
The revised standard Switch and Switch Lite both use the updated 'Mariko' version of Nvidia's Tegra X1 which draws less power and therefore runs cooler while offering better battery life. General performance isn't improved over the launch version in any noticeable way, although the chip is technically capable of more.
Whether a Switch 'Pro' would tap into this unused potential for minor (repeat, minor) improvements or Nintendo would replace it with a more powerful substitute is unclear, although the former option perhaps makes the most financial sense at this time. Staying in the realm of reality, we'd argue that the best we can hope for in terms of resolution increases is probably a modest boost that pushes games with dynamic resolutions much closer to the current 1080p maximum.
As we mentioned above, if 4K inexplicably became a do-or-die goal for Nintendo, it would arguably make more sense to add 4K upscaling tech to the dock and improve the console itself through minor tweaks and upgraded materials for that 'premium' feel.
Speaking of which...
A magnesium alloy body
Sounds sexy, no? Replacing the current model's plastic chassis with metal would improve the handheld's structural integrity (preventing any cracking as experienced by some owners) and give the console a refined 'premium' feel. At once more durable and sophisticated, a magnesium alloy casing suggests that this gaming tool is for the serious, professional gamer. Sure, the standard model is fine, but nothing's more hardcore than metal. Except perhaps chromed metal.
Alternatively, throw in a couple of colour variants and who could resist? Spice Orange, anyone? That's hardcore, right?
A reduced bezel around the screen
Another obvious way to give a new SKU a premium feel would be to reduce the black bezel around the screen, resulting in more visual real estate while keeping the same basic dimensions of the current model. A 1080p screen would complement this increase nicely, although we'd probably still take the size increase with another 720p screen.
Even the smallest mobile devices boast screens with resolutions in excess of Switch and Switch Lite's lowly 720p, and it's possible that switching to one with more pixels wouldn't cost too much more from a production standpoint (indeed, it could theoretically be cheaper depending on supply and demand and available materials), although it would naturally have to work in concert with a CPU boost.
Of course, a bigger screen will impact battery life, but we'd take that hit if only to help reading all the unoptimised tiny text cropping up in Switch ports.
Wireless audio out of the box
The fact that Switch has a standard 3.5mm audio jack should be commended as a thoroughly sensible, practical inclusion. However, the reality is that wireless headphones are commonplace these days and as a portable device in 2020, Switch's lack of support stands out as a massive oversight. Several companies offer third-party solutions via USB-C dongles which work admirably, but any updated Switch should pack in this tech and remove the need to carry yet another gadget around in addition to our phone, charger, AirPod case, Switch, charger, Kindle, charger, etc, etc.
Also audio-related, a built-in microphone and Dolby Digital support wouldn't be a bad idea, either.
5G compatibility
Another feature rumoured for the original Switch which didn't materialise, the ability to play your portable online when you're out and about without being tethered to Wi-Fi would be nice. As 5G gradually rolls out it makes more sense for Switch to incorporate the tech, especially in Nintendo's homeland. With services like Google's Stadia and Microsoft's xCloud banking on improved networks in the coming years, and with Nintendo looking to expand its online offering with Nintendo Switch Online, the ability to truly play anywhere would be a significant bullet point on a list of upgraded Switch features.
Alternatively, a non-portable, 'desktop' Switch
We've already had the portable Switch-that-doesn't switch, so why not a home-bound version? A dock-sized 'desktop' Switch might seem improbable, but by eschewing the inherent problems of squeezing all that miniaturised tech into the current console's form factor Nintendo could use cheaper components to achieve the 4K output and improved speeds some of us want without charging $600+.
It's arguable that further diluting the gimmick of the Switch after the non-switching Switch Lite would be counter-productive, and we don't want to even start thinking how Nintendo would approach game sharing between a standard hybrid console, a portable and a SKU that stays under your telly, but stranger things have happened.
A Switch that doesn't? It's been done once, so why not again?
Switch 'Pro' - So what would you want?
So, of all those possible features, which ones would make you interested in upgrading from your current Switch? Does a more iterative approach to hardware along the lines of the mobile phone business model appeal to you, or do you prefer the traditional 5(ish)-year cycle we're used to with video games hardware? Let us know your thoughts by answering the questions below and let's see what you lovely people are really interested in:
Thanks for voting in the polls. Got any more ideas? We've kept things relatively simple and haven't discussed the potential 'Elite' Joy-Con, accessories or unique software that a 'New' Nintendo Switch might bring. Let us know what you'd like to see in the future with a comment below.
Comments 306
I want it to NOT have exclusive games please
4K would be the main one for me. My TV isn't capable of anymore than that so anymore more would be wasted on me.
For the record I think the original Switch games look amazing as they are. I struggle to think sometimes how they fit on such a small cartridge in the first place
I couldn’t care less about reaching 4K on a Nintendo console. A beefier CPU and GPU would be nice.
More powerful cpu & reduced bezel. No drifting and upgraded Nvidia chip as well.
Is there any logic we are getting a Switch Pro? We just got the Lite. It will sort of ruin that sale. Don't think Nintendo will do that yet. As the original switch and Lite still sell well.
Take it to the next level and make it water proof so we can take it in the bath with us
I really doubt 4K will happen.
What I want the most, is whatever CPU, memory boost they need to do to in order to reduce the load times that plagues so many games and also have more consistent frame rate. Secondly, I want wireless headphone support.
You guys want a handheld with 1 -2 hours of battery life?
Achievements, more NSO options and a better interface please.
I'm quite happy with my switch as is so would personally prefer they look to improve in other areas.
Would be neat with some more horses, computational horses that is, under the hood, plastic case that is.
But I don't know.
I remember when the New 3DS was launched and I was hoping that Konami would update Metal Gear Solid 3 to actually benefit from the added processing power.
Alas, it was never updated and the game was left a blurry, slow mess.
I hope devs take the time to update their Switch portfolio if a Switch Pro actually does become reality.
Because it would be very nice if "impossible ports" like The Witcher 3 and Wolfenstein 2 became less blurry.
But Pro Exclusives are a hard, hard NO from me.
Faster CPU, GPU, and more ram, so ports are easier. Even a desktop only console would be good for me.
I just want games to run at 60 fps. That's all.
And sturdier joycons.
Faster CPU (and more RAM)
Smaller bezels
Bluetooth for my headphones
We DON'T need 4K use the faster processor and RAM to achieve better games not higher resolutions
I doubt there will be a switch pro since they just released the Switch Lite but if they did I’d like to see a more powerful CPU and an OLED screen. That said even if they did those things Id probably just wait for the Switch 2 to be released.
just play games at the set frame rate with no drops playing Witcher 3 at 20 FPS is just embarrassing
Not sure exactly what I'd expect from a Switch Pro but I've held off on the red box Switch so far so I'm just about due for an upgrade.
Id go for a modest update in terms of specs, and also a modest price rise. A 6.5-7 inch 1080p display and "docked performance" in undocked mode, with a little bit higher GPU performance in docked mode, so that dynamic res games can go towards highest res they were made for without even patching the games. Plus wireless audio built-in and say 64-128GB of integrated flash memory.
Id say they could skip 4K, they would still have to strugle enough to reach 1080p in AAA third-party games.
4K is pointless given Nintendo have never cared about graphics, even in 1080p most exclusives don’t bother trying to look nice. Stable 60fps would be appreciated, I’ve never known a Nintendo console to have this many games that struggle to run this early on.
All I want is an improved battery. The day I replaced my Wii U gamepad's battery with the bigger one was a glorious day.
Ideally I'd like a switch with massive battery life in handheld mode and enough power to reduce the gap with the next gen of console so devs can port games easily, but I won't hold my breath. Also thinner bezel and 4K seem like a nice idea.
@Isaix so... No exclusives means you want a switch without Zelda, mario, fire emblem or smash?
That's already the case since you don't have any obligation to buy any of these!
I would like wireless video streaming. That is, instead of the dock, I'd like to see a Chromecast-like fob that plugs into an HDMI port and lets you play Switch games on a TV without any wires. Heck, it would be great if it just integrates with Chromecasts!
On the last point, given the fuss they made about defending the launch price as the ideal mix of “affordable for target audience” and “cost effective to produce”, I would expect Nintendo to be targeting the same RRP for a Pro model, with the OG model then taking a price cut (since its components must surely be cheaper after 3 years)
I just want White color of Switch yet powerful enough to handle port games from PS4 especially Cartoonish games with tons of textures.
Im not greedy, just give me a desktop only switch(which will make the console cheaper and more durable), everything at least at 1080p, more games running at 60fps, wireless headset support, and extra app like Discord, Netflix, Crunchroll and Amazon Prime Video.
Why isn't "proper functioning joycons" a possible upgrade? Lol
For me a beef up in performance, not much 4K but flat out 1080p 60fps much like the base PS4. If it runs titles like Resi 2/3 in its full console glory then I'd be happy.
Another better option for me personally would be the under the TV console, not the handheld. Then they could likely hit PS4 Pro & XBX 4K speeds. If Nintendo can get out the expanded cartridges out cheaper then 3rd party support will get better.
I am not sure if the timing is right for a Pro model. What are the available options for a substantially upgraded CPU that wouldn't drain the battery? The most important thing is for the Switch to stay relevant and desirable after the arrival of next gen consoles. It needs to continue to receive ports to some degree. That should be the goal for Nintendo and perhaps the refresh should wait for a year after the release of the other consoles.
I’ll wait on the successor.
I have no need for 4K but can certainly see where more power could help with things like lighting, particle effects, and more consistent framerate (looking at you Xenoblade 2, as much as I love you) so I'd welcome a Pro under certain circumstances. For example: didn't one of Nintendo's early NX-related patents show a dock with a separate processor? I don't like the idea of having to buy a whole new console at full price but would LOVE if the Pro was actually just a different dock with a modern version of the Expansion Pak idea. That way people new to Switch could buy the new "Pro" that comes with a console and the new dock, but us early adopters could buy just the expansion dock by itself instead of an entirely new console. I dont want to have to shell out another $300 (or more) in order to play the "best" version of Bayo3 or BotW2.
I’m glad to see that most of the comments are actually reasonable.
An updated CPU (maybe the X2? I imagine it’d be the same price the X1 was when the Switch launched, if not cheaper) just so games run at more consistent resolutions and frame rates would be my number one request. A reduce bezel/increase screen size, without changing the actual size/ form factor of the console would be my second request (keep the console the same size so old joy-cons still work). Wireless audio is the only other thing I’d want.
I don’t see 4K being used for games, although supporting a 4K output through the dock for any video stream apps seems to make sense. That way the Switch isn’t actually displaying 4K, it’s just acting as a conduit to your TV.
Other (comment below): HDR
4K actually does very little for me, but HDR is a must. Plus, HDR comes virtually free to the power budget, so ... it's the right answer here.
@Dijita honestly if that rumor somehow prove true, I feel that people expecting a portable PS4 are indeed going to be sorely disappointed.
At BEST I just see this as the equivalent of a New 3DS will be just, once they likely realized that those "New"-exclusive titles didn't catch on, faster load time/etc and more consistent framerates under -existing- FPS caps of games and ultimately extremely few to none graphics improvement.
I.e. performance boost under current goals for games, maybe , but people shouldn't expect higher resolution or additional shaders/etc.
And that's assuming these rumors ARE somehow true.
Cup holder? 4k support, more power for better draw distance, pre installed glass screen protector.
More than 1 cartridge slot would be handy, to reduce swapping cartridges
Even better battery life for me. The original switch with 2.5-3Hrs battery is pretty poor. Last years update was an improvement but if they could get a switch version above 8Hrs. That would be sweet. I can't see it happening though.
As for more power, I'd rather they waited for a proper replacement in 2 to 3 years time.
@chocolate_supra I’ve seen that rumour before as well. It makes sense and fits with the modular nature of the Switch (different joy-cons, different docks, etc.).
Folders
No, nothing more to say - @NL remove that ‘say more’ bull$#&t
More Ram maybe 8 instead of 4 and at a faster frequency. theres no point in having a beefier CPU/GPU and not have fast enough ram to pass the data back and forth. I think if that was upgraded and the newer processor used in the revised switch was clocked to original specs then we would see a massive improvement straight away. not sure what the temps would be on that though.
would be nice to see someone overclock the revised switch so see how much power could be added untill the temps match the old model.
@Rhaoulos lol no,what I mean is that I don't want a Switch Pro with games that can only be played on a Switch Pro.Every games should he playable on Switch,Switch Lite and Switch Pro.
Obviously gorilla glass. How is that not on the list of suggestions?
Also, I want it to be purchasable with nothing. No dock, no joycons, no charger. That way you can upgrade your current setup much cheaper.
It will soon be entering its fourth year, not it's third. The third is up in March.
HDD storage! I can't keep up with microSD purchases!
It has to be able to "Switch" because I want to take Animal Crossing and Smash Bros with me and play 1080p on the go or play them in 4K at home. I love the idea of a dock that improves the resolution and graphics of games when you're playing on your TV, it's already cool on the OG Switch and I want to see it expanded on.
I would gladly pay $500+ for a premium Nintendo product, we've gotten used to buying new phones for twice that much every other year so why not a console to play all your favorite games on once every 5 or so years? Imagine playing BotW on a 7 inch 1080p OLED screen while you're out and about. I'd pay whatever they want for that privilege.
Built in wireless audio is huge too, please, I love my headphones and I don't want to buy a dongle.
I want it to have a flap, and under the flap, another flap
i got my Switch a few months after launch and love it. It’s my favorite console in a long while. I could see playing it, as is, for another 2 years of the games keep coming. That being said, I’d def upgrade to a Switch Pro this year if one were to arrive. Better GPU, shrinking the bezels and including Bluetooth audio out of the box would be my requested features. Don’t really need 4K output to the TV but full 1080p in both docked and handheld mode would be fantastic. I know there have been some issues with wrapping/cracking but I think the Switch’s build quality is fine. Unless the magnesium alloy helps with heat dissipation, I think sticking to the current materials is fine. Cellular data would nice but not with the added cost to the console or monthly cost. Have you seen tablet plans? $50 a month for 3GBs...yeah, I’m good paying that so my Switch can get online. I’ll just stick to tethering it’s to my phone, which works perfectly.
I’m thinking $399 sounds about right and likely some place like GameStop would run a promo offering extra credit towards a trade-in. So after trading in my OG Switch it might cost $200-$250 out of pocket.
I’d guess it would play all current Switch games and any 1st party games would remain playable on Lite, OG, & Pro. Only exclusives might be certain 3rd party ports.
How about they release it with anything more than 32GB storage. Still can't believe they got away with that low storage on the original console
A dock-only Switch would be kind of bizarre, honestly. Maybe as a potential SKU alongside a true Switch Pro that can still be played in handheld, maybe, but by itself called the "Pro?" Yeah, no. The point of the Switch is to be able to take your games on the go, and we all know the Switch Lite is a successor of sorts to the 3DS, so the Switch Lite not being able to dock doesn't really count. Especially since the Lite is just as powerful as the Switch. A docked only Switch is literally just the same as a PS4 or Xbox One, but with less prettier graphics and such (unless it has specs that would essentially make games unplayable on the Switch or Switch Lite), defeating the entire purpose of the Switch in the first place.
Honestly, the only thing I'd love to see in a Switch Pro is HDD support and moving games to and from from an external HDD to the microSD card easily so that it's like taking some of your games on the go and stuff.
I'd want more storage, at least 128GB
I just hope new models will have fixed the joy cons.
The lack of bigger internal storage on that list is baffling. Give us a Switch with an improved CPU, more on board storage, and presumably the metal body since that will reduce the need for fans, increasing battery life.
More powerful CPU/GPU would be nice. Couldn't care less for 4k.
@chocolate_supra what about keeping your dock, keeping your joy cons and just having to replace the tablet. That works for me. Sell the new sku in both bundled with dock and joycons as well as a version all by itself.
I'll order the Switch Pro day one. Unless they will come out with a limited version of it, then I'll wait. If they're keeping the other skus, I'm ok with $399 or even $499 for it. Here's why. Keep the lower price points for those who don't want to spend a lot, and have a higher one for those of us that do. My phone is $1100. I'd much rather pay $500 for a portable gaming system like my switch and have it be a beast, than pay $350 for a slight upgrade. $399 seems like the right price point, but if they come out with one for $500 that's a beast, I will buy it.
Ultimately I don't think Nintendo will release any new hardware that would cost more than the current switchable switch.
I don't see them releasing a 3rd SKU that could further fragment the Switch family and I'd personally prefer to see a revision that replaces the current switch hardware with a few more upgrades than the revision we got last year, similar to how the New 3DS replaced the standard 3DS.
I would love bluetooth audio support, smaller bezels, no joy con drift, larger internal storage, better build quality, and maybe a stronger CPU/more RAM to run current releases smoother. But I would prefer that the battery life stay the same as the current model and I recognize they probably couldn't do both and keep the price the same.
I really have a hard time believing they will release any kind of revision in 2020 but it'll definitely be interesting to see what happens!
Updated GPU please.
@Vee_Flames a docked only switch is different from a ps or xbox since it plays Nintendo games. That's a huge difference.
A larger, 1080p, glass screen, some kind of aluminium casing (just no plastic!) and a faster processor with a small increase in battery life. They’re my major wants. Other than that, a decent kickstand and improved JoyCon rails would be appreciated. Obviously those JoyCon should be cased in the same material as the Switch unit itself. Oh and analogue triggers would be lovely!
[EDIT]: Similar to what they did with the charging cable with new 3DS systems, an option to buy the new Pro without the increased expense of including a dock would be a considerate gesture by Nintendo. At least for those of us with an existing Switch.
Here is what I would like to see from a pro model:
Whatever needs to happen to allow for the ability for Pro user to download optional high resolution texture packs for various games and still meet performance targets. If a user or a developer choses not to have high resolution textures, then the extra horsepower can be used for other changes such as stable/improved framerates, increased on-sceen environment details, longer draw distances, higher resolutions (e.g. 900p pushed to 1080p), or any combination it so choses.
I don't think there is really anything wrong with a game still running at the target base resolution, as long as the textures themselves don't look muddy on a TV. Sure, the textures will still look soft on 4K TV's, however it will be an improvement.
I could possibly see 4K media capabilities, but since the choice of media services is so limited, it seems pointless.
If that means improved battery, higher internal storage, an increase in CPU power, and a bump in RAM, then so be it.
One thing I don't hope for is a docked-only experience as my Switch is mostly used in tabletop mode and I would like for it to stay that way.
As far as Pro hardware exclusives...I would hate to see it, but as games start to push into the next-gen exclusively, it may be necessary for next-gen games to get ported to Switch. On the other hand, by the time developers fully transition into capabilities well beyond current-gen, the Switch might be at the end of it's lifecycle, so it may not be necessary.
A better cpu and revised Joy-Cons with an actual D-pad. Could care less about 4k or a different chassis.
@sixrings Yeah, I like where you're coming from there. I'd just expect that a new tablet would be the more expensive way to go because of the screen and all the other internal components. But if the price'd be the same whether they went with a better tablet or a juiced-up dock, I could live with migrating all my data so long as it meant not having to buy EVERYTHING all over again.
a “home console” switch (Switch home?) makes the most sense to me. this would keep the cost down, especially if it was sold as just the box and it was byo joycon/pro controller(s)/switch lite which would make the transition for existing owners more palatable. another option would be a beefed up dock which would work with all existing switch models and would cost less than the standalone box, but cost more altogether for those who dont own any models yet.
in any case (pun intended), im not interested as the lite is perfect to me
How about a joy-con that doesn't have the drift problems anymore
@LUIGITORNADO To be fair, I don't really see the point of 4k even though I own 4k tvs and a 4k monitor. However, if you have something capable of 4k, that means games will run much smoother at 1080p. That's a huge improvement. It's not a game breaker that switch games are a bit blurry and have draw distances of about 8 feet, but it would be great if that wasn't the case.
@tc-senzei Does yours? I own two pairs since launch with zero problems. O think it's a problem that happens, but it's definitely not every controller.
I’d like the feature that gets gamers to stop encouraging half-measure mid-gen console versions.
@Retron Exactly. That PS4 pro and one X can run games at 4k, but there is never a reason to do so because it's always much better to just play at the 1080 60 options. 4k doesn't really improve the experience over 1080p the way I feel 1080 improves 720. Details are properly viewable at 1080p, at 4k youve got some imperceptible edges smoother
I'd like a smooth 1080 (keep 720 for the portable is fine with me).
More power is what I want. The rest can stay the same for all I care. Just update the cpu/gpu to something that can at least do ps4 quality at 1080/60. I don't know if that's something we can get in a portable though. Heat/battery/etc..
It also sadly depends on if Nvidia really wants to do anything. MS got kinda screwed by them back in the Xbox days so I don't trust em. I won't be surprised if N has to shed Nvidia at some point.
Whats the point i just got the newer more battery updated model in the black friday sales and just when you think everything cool they are on about another console an updated old model.
If they are going to do this bring out a much much more powerful system that supports vr ( Mario kart vr ) and has the power for much bigger games but still plays all the current switch games.
So it's a next gen console but looks like a switch and if updated a lot a lot inside.
With the Ps5 and Xbox x coming out they need to make a whole new guts system ( Or do they ? ) but still plays switch games but could handle more power demanding games and plays Vr Has 4k and all that.
I just don't se the point though as the switch has been out for sometime and runs fine for the games it runs unless it's an above model. Vr would be great just for mario kart vr alone but you could use most Vr systems Htc vive and other models plug and play.
All the next gen are banging on about it what ones more powerful and has the best graphics blah blah blah. But it's the game and quality of the games that matters as Nintendo proves time after time.
I want it to be bundled with a beard trimmer and maybe shower gel
The key thing I want from a Switch Pro on top of being a Switch Pro is to keep the same Joy-Con railings and more or less the same form factor so I can still use my DxM HORI Joy-Con
At least until we get Pro Joy-Con with gyro. That's the thing we really want.
I still have a soft spot for the menu bells and whistles the 3DS and Wii U had. The miis walking around and/or the purchasable themes with art and music. Something to make the menu look and sound more exciting.
Actual 4K from the Switch is NOT happening... considering it struggles to provide 1080/30 in its current form for games like BOTW and runs ports like DOOM around 720/30 or less.
1080/60 across the board, including on the bigger handheld screen (less bezel) is maybe possible with a Pro revision, and would be great.
A dock that upscales to 4k is also a good idea, assuming it would perform the upscale better than a lot of TVs in terms of quality and latency.
The ability to connect an undocked switch to the tv (so a wii U).
The ability to play wii u games. With a port for a wii mote sensor bar (and ability to connect to wii motes)
A DS/3DS card slot and the ability to play those games connected to the tv (like a wii u virtual console)
@holygeez03 it wouldn't have to just upscale, it could provide additional horsepower needed for native 4K. I believe they even had patents for such technology leak a few years ago.
Hardly "long in the tooth"... not even three years old yet!
Also... Magnesium is great for cortisol reduction... so maybe I could lick it to calm down... everybody seems to be licking cartridges, anyway.
I just want it to be powerful enough to get to play some more AAA multiplatform games handheld.
An updated Switch sits far better with me than updating an ordinary console every 3 years because being portable it gets more wear and tear.
I’m likely going have to buy a new one in the next year anyway, so if one with better battery life and sparklier bits comes out, I’ll take that one.
A balanced upgrade of better cpu/gpu, RAM, bigger screen, 1080p portable, better battery, glass screen, bigger hard drive and $349-,$399 asking price.
@Marios-love-child The world is not ready for 4K games, even a 2080 RTX struggles to keep 60 fps at 4K. The switch can’t even keep 30 fps on most games, and almost no games output at 1080p. I would set 1080p at 60fps as a good target to hit. Breath of the Wild for example, runs at like 900p when docked, and struggles to keep 30fps 90% of the time.
1080p internal OLED panel.
Battery enough for 3+ hours.
Solid metal case.
Next Gen Nvidia SoC.
All this stuff exists and for $599 would be possible.
@Xansies Watch some 4k content and you will understand. Yes you need a 60"+ screen and need to be within 2-3 meters.
I think it would be best for Nintendo to wait for a big upgrade in a couple of years. The components will be cheaper, so they can keep the system at a reasonable price. As it is now, a Pro model would be a modest upgrade at best. I've said it before, but releasing an upgraded dock with a boost in performance and/or 4K support could be a great stopgap. They could bundle it with BoTW2 for the definitive experience.
Same platform with no exclusives
Modest power bump so games like Witcher look better(less pop in, render hair properly)
1080P handheld with bigger screen in same form factor(screen fills glossy part of the current bezel on OG switch)
1080P still docked(4K is pointless at this stage, HDR would be better)
Sturdier build around JoyCon docking but JC are interchangable between versions. So those that can't afford a pro can buy better joy cons.
I just want the games to hit 720p when undocked. That's it.
@HobbitGamer I was starting to feel like I was alone in this...
I don't really want a Pro model because then there'd be a risk that games wouldn't be well-optimised for the original Switch. It would also be more difficult for the developers as the game should work well on four different configurations: original Switch handheld/docked and Switch Pro handheld/docked.
However, if a Pro model is coming, I think improved CPU would be great. It would allow so many things. Better physics, more interactive objects, faster loading, just to name a few. That said, I also wouldn't mind a bit more RAM memory (possibly faster too) because that could potentially attract more open-world games to Switch.
I'm all for better graphics - but how?
Even if it would be a stronger machine, all games would still have to be made to run on the original.
Maybe Sony and MS paid good money for developers to make their games look better on their upgraded consoles because making a game at a better resolution takes a lot of extra money.
We all know Nintendo won't pay anybody anything.
And if the games would be exclusively made for this stronger Switch, that would mean a completely new console generation - which is out of the question in 2020.
Unless Nintendo wants to repeat the New 3DS exclusivity fiasco, which I strongly doubt.
So all in all, I would really like a stronger Switch but I can't see it happening logically.
I just need the all the first(and second) party games running at 60fps...oh, and also i'd love to use my bt earphones
@rafaelribeiro99 why would the pro have exclusive apps like amazon prime? ...
I would want a system that doesn’t look exactly like Wii U , graphics wise. I honest to God cannot tell the difference from Wii U to switch when it comes to visuals.
@StevenG It's a hard asking price though. There might not be enough people interested for 600 bucks. For what it is, it makes sense for them to shoot for a price undercutting next gen consoles and coming out in the summer. I mean, I'd want to give myself an advantage instead trying to compete directly with Sony and Microsoft. Though if it is the summer, they'd have to announce it literally in a couple weeks
@xpownz Nintendo this generation has had to drop frame rates in games like Kirby, Luigi to maintain a 1080p resolution. Or drop resolution to 900p in Mario odyssey and aces to maintain 60fps. The worst though is BOTW which had to run at 900p while still being less than 30fps. All around this system needs a boost and other than not wanting to shell out more money I can't understand people defending its performance as if it's trivial. Give me a pro yesterday.
@construx things are made to be scaleable. It's how Witcher 3 runs on the machine. Basically made on an extremely high-end computer and cut down til it runs on the hardware you want. Just cut it down less. It's the exact reason the rumor(I think this is confirmed) that Xbox series x games will work on the Xbox one is possible.
@Swaz
I disagree. I also own a PS4 pro and some of the games on there look insane.
If the Switch can get anywhere near that level I'd be more than happy
@sixrings I mean, I get kinda annoyed at the resolution for all the current gen consoles because I have a PC with 2019 hardware. It's just kinda irritating to go from crystal clear and zero framedrops to kinda blurry 5 foot draw distances, and really spotty performance. I'm playing DQ 11S after playing the OG when it came out and the QOL improvements make it a better game, but it feels worse in spots (like Italian town and Nautica)
@Marios-love-child The main draw of the next gen consoles is Ray tracing and storage making it so more things can be rendered in a larger area at once (no more 25 people war scenes!) That is next level good. Look at control for an example. But, it's hardly really necessary. Having a portable console at PS4 pro level would be bonkers space magic.
An Ethernet port to begin with, Wifi is just unreliable. Also more power to be able to handle games like Witcher 3 without downgrading too much.
The switch needs more power for a reason no one is mentioning: artstyle. Nintendo and second parties use colorful pallettes basically to hide the jaggies and lack of aliasing on a smaller sceeen. All of them do. Name a first party switch game that doesn't have the same cartoon color scheme? You can't because there isn't one. That doesn't mean that I want hyper realistic games on the switch but just more colors besides bright greens, yellows, and oranges
I personally don't care about having a magnesium alloy body or a bezel-less screen. The current display is fine - actually a slightly higher quality IGZO panel would be much appreciated. Resolution on either mode can stay the same as it is now. Nintendo really needs to pack more punch into the Switch. A CPU that isn't throttled by design, a GPU that's at least close to the base Xbox One's and more memory at a higher bandwidth - that's a recipe for a Switch that'll stay relevant for 2020 and beyond.
@Xansies for a portable machine it's not necessary.
i take this rumor about switch pro a grain of salt since these rumors pop up last year and nothing happen.
@Xansies I'm buying a series X just to play F1 4k with Ray tracing. I know some might find that insane but it's true.
@Mgene15 switch is far more powerful and superior to the wii u,360,and ps3 cant tell if you being sarcastic or trolling again.
@HyruleanKnight some of us play docked and I thought it was a hybrid not a portable. If it's a portable when do I get my console version.
I don't want a switch pro but I am a fanboy so will buy it no matter what, but if they juiced up the insides so it could handle more ports from PS4/XBOX then I think that would be good.
The one thing I would change would be to make it switch to the tv without the need of the dock!
@Xansies
Perhaps not in portable mode no. I may be in a minority but my Switch spends 95% of it's life in docked mode so any graphical boost would be more than welcome
@Marios-love-child I'm the same way. Docked 90%. The best part of the Switch to me other than Nintendo games is so many wireless play games. PS and Xbox deserted lan play for online play.
The Switch is great, I love the joycons and all of it, but it needs a better, more solid build. Sleeker, lighter, tighter. They can even go bigger, I’d love that. Anything. Just update the form factor.
I’ll leave faster processing to the powers that be as Nintendo and its developers can work with what they have to make great games. GameCube games are still some of the best polygon based games. So if it’s beastly, whatever. If it’s a generation behind...whatever!
@sixrings Ray tracing is underrated because people are just like, "Lights and shadows? We have lights and shadows in games now," but it's a total game changer. It makes things look much more realistic. What comes to mind is the phone in Control. Without rsy tracing it's just a hunk of non-descript red, with it it actually looks like a phone. It adds a depth that it's wasn't even clear was missing. Makes close ups much better. Brings things out of the uncanny valley a bit.
@Sean161
Nobody forced you to read it!!
I just want the switch pro to have control sticks that work.
Like this article says I don't think an hypothetical Switch Pro would be much different from the Switch we currently have. Maybe a nicer look, better battery, screen, resolution and a little bit more powerful but that's about it. It won't be a massive upgrade like some people want. That said, I predict Nintendo will release two more upgrades after the Lite. Switch Pro and Switch Lite Pro (Similar to the New N2DS XL). Personally I'm pretty content with my Switch Lite so Im not planning on buying another one UNLESS the new Switch can somehow move games like RE2, GTAV or RDR2.
@Sean161
Sounds to me like you're the one doing the whinging
If the article doesn't interest you simply scroll past it
For me it would be:
More CPU
More RAM
Fix the Joycon drift issue once and for all.
I really don't care so much about the other features. I just want it to be able to continue the growing 3rd party support into the next generation.
I don't even care if the CPU is any different, I would buy a new Switch for less bezel alone
But being honest there's no need for a Switch Pro. At least not this early into the Switch life cycle when it is doing this good. I personally think the release of the PS5 and Xbox Series X won't make a difference to Nintendo since it's clear the Switch isn't trying to compete with Sony and Microsoft. As long as good third party and first party games keep being made the Switch will still sell well.
No doubt it should have way more storage (SSD maybe?) and better performance. 4k would be a win.
For a pro version, I'd just like more of what we've already gotten mainly: More battery life.
Beyond that? Slightly more powerful cpu, and maybe 2GB more RAM? I'd really love for it to have 8GB RAM, but I doubt Nintendo are gonna shove it above 6.
All that stuff with 4k and less bezel/magnesium alloy body... No thanks. Not necessary and it really doesn't matter much.
All I want is to be able to play most games at a stable 30 fps, and the cpu improvement would deal with most of the games that sorta struggle.
Only 12% of people happy with the current switch. Bring on the Pro.
@Xansies I don't think Ray tracing is under rated. I think people just don't know what it is. At least you can show what Ray tracing is on a junk tv. Explaining to someone how good 4k or hdr looks without them being able to see it themselves is a difficult task. But when the next gen comes and we see the new games with and without Ray tracing there will be people who clearly see the light. On the other hand my in laws have a 1080p tv and still get regular cable and swear there is no difference. Yet somehow Netflix looks a lot better than the cable. There will always be people who pretend to not notice the difference. These people are too cheap to pay for the upgrade, blind, contrarians or trolls.
The 1080p screen and metal body do sound cool, but as a whole, the Switch Pro would be a hard sell for me. $399.99 USD sounds like the most likely price, meaning it would be $499.99 here in Canada. $575 after taxes. That's a lot of money for a system I wouldn't be able to even use to its fullest extent; I don't have a 4K TV and don't see myself upgrading anytime soon.
Some quality of life improvements including fast charging, OLED screen (if the Vita can do it...) Joycons that don't need manually repairing and more internal flash.
I think the next Switch should be a dedicated non-portable unit. Make it a big bigger with better cooling. 4K is total overkill, Nintendo should concentrate on 60fps 1080p and start supporting more sound codecs. They already have the Lite and the normal Switch, if Nintendo wants to be all things to all people they can't just have one model as compromises always have to be made (battery life, size, cost, performance, heat, etc). They can always revise the Lite (portable), Hybrid (both), Pro (non-portable) as time progresses but I think it's too early in the game to start revising the Lite and Hybrid. Everyone wants one device that does everything they want but I think you have to watch what you wish for. I currently have a Switch (second gen) as I was waiting for a dedicated non-portable but finally gave up. I really like the ability to switch back and forth but I could see myself getting a Lite for portability and leave a non-portable at home for when I want extra performance hooked up to my big tv and surround system at home. Another thing that Nintendo can do is open up some performance options in the settings to allow gamers to fine-tune performance/battery-life/heat as it's my understanding that they keep game developers from utilizing the full power of the CPU/GPU. Oh and let's not forget storage performance, the switch seems a little pokey in this regard.
If I had to make a wishlist, I’d probably say 1080p screen, a better CPU to keep some of the more intensive games from stuttering when there is a lot going on on the screen (I’m looking at you, Korok Forest in BotW), and a battery life comparable to that of the ‘new’ standard Switch in spite of the new improvements. A smaller bezel around the screen would also be a plus, but it wouldn’t be a deal-breaker tbh.
@Isaix Oh OK! I misunderstood and thought you were a troll hating Nintendo for their exclusive, my bad.
In that case, I couldn't agree more. It needs to be like the PS4 Pro and not the New 3DS.
Basically I would want a Switch Pro to be as powerful as a PS4/XB1 in a handheld form.
I’d honestly prefer it to be as powerful as a XSX/PS5, but let’s be a little bit reasonable. Ha
I don't think Nintendo cares too much about 4K or 5G for now. Most Nintendo games aren't even native 1080p and 5G is currently very limited in range and usability.
Switch 2 is when you should look forward to those features.
Wii U gamepad support... fine, using the original Switch as if it was one.
Video stream from docked mode, A second screen to work with selected games (bring back the promised second screen in Breath of the wild) Two players on the same system. ETC
DON'T SPLIT THE PLAYER BASE
Seriously. I haven't played most of this year's big ps4 games because of reports of how poorly they run on base consoles as they're optimised for pro models.
I'd like the "Pro" to be a simple and affordable hardware upgrade. No bigger screen, no metal-allow body, just a 7nm+ (instead of 16nm) Tegra X2 with 8GB of LPDDR4X. Those specs will make all games Nintendo games run 1080p @ 60fps and allow for upscaling to 4K @ 30fps. This model could then replace the current Switch. Retailers would appreciate having only 2 SKU's and parents can understand which Nintendo console to buy for their children and afford it.
I've commented more than once that I don't see how the kind of "Switch Pro" this fandom fancies could compete on Switch's field in terms of efficiency and price earlier than a few years on when it will be pointless to call it "Switch Pro". Dare I believe the hybrid successor will be more powerful? Vice versa - I dare believe that the more powerful successor may remain a hybrid. So why even bother? Can I not wait for the alleged "ports ushered in by better specs" a few more years when my Switch alone is sitting on a 300+ title library and a 1000+ title wishlist? Fans, PLEASE.
If something of the currently wet-dreamed kind actually comes out of the blue, I don't mind eating my price/cooling/battery concerns like it was with Switch Lite's naming/functionality concerns. But I'll believe it when I see it - especially the price point which half the current voters here seem to expect below $400. With a straight face. I mean, I won't pretend to track the electronics market, but it really sounds like nVidia became a charity and I didn't even learn it from the obtrusive Chrome feed tabloids. :V
And to humour the thought... would I upgrade? "Possibly", but only in the New 3DS scenario. Back on 2016's Eve I could buy a PS4 Pro, too - and was being talked into that at the store - but I simply didn't need it for my 544p Vita streaming server. The Slim is more than enough for me to this day. And yes, I prefer generational upgrades once every five years or more - not only it helps manage the gaming budget (buy an annual NewProX Lite XL you need several monthly wages and bonuses to save for, and how much will you proportionally spend on the actual games? I suspect Nintendo and third party publishers alike wouldn't find this question too trivial), but Gamedevland also has time to get acclimatized to the hardware, learn all the tricks and potentially produce most impressive results. Rune Factory alone can be a poster child for how one franchise's flagships can progress in leaps and bounds on the very same platform. Where do you hurry so, gamers? And why do you proceed to complain about someone else's consumerism-influenced approaches afterwards?
@sixrings Yes, but I meant in concept. You could say the same thing for the Wii U, Wii, GameCube, and the N64.
Sure, the exclusives on Switch are incredible, but I think a lot of the appeal that results in the success of the Switch comes the simple fact that you can take your games, exclusives or not, on the go. I mean, why do you think we ask for ports of games all the time? We could play the games on other systems, probably with better visuals too, but no, we choose to play them on the Switch anyway.
At the end of the day, the concept of the Switch is a literal game changer for many, because it breaks the barrier that traditional consoles force on the player, which is to stay in front of the TV in order to play your games. A dock-only Switch will entirely miss the mark on that, and I don't think Nintendo wants that right now.
Analog triggers for racing games.
@Vee_Flames no one's forcing anyone to buy a docked switch. The hybrid and portable would still remain. Why are options such a bad thing in the community.
£329 is a bit of a price jump imo. They should sell it at the same price as the current Switch and give the old one a price cut.
@sixrings options aren't bad. Arrogantly lobbying options at the cost of someone else's interests is. Did you forget how you publicly suggested that Nintendo sell their hardware at a loss purely to accommodate your entertainment preferences?
@The_Pixel_King I didn't even think about Analog triggers. You are 100% correct! I remember shooting free throws on NBA 2K1 on Dreamcast using those. So much fun. Might be the only time I say free throws are fun.
@Erchitu This is the main thing I want them to do. Upgrade the CPU, GPU and ram so it's closer to PS4 or Xbox One power so we can actually play some of the current gen (almost last gen) games on the switch without them looking like my glasses are off. If they don't get those specs up, switch will be left behind when it comes to third party come PS5 and Series X.
I would like the switch pro to be compatible with Atari 2600 cartridges and have a tape deck so I can listen to my cassette collection. These 2 things are a must for me.
Anyone realistically expecting 4K is crazy. That's simply not gonna happen. No way, no how. It's not nearly mainstream enough and even if it was, this is Nintendo. Not gonna happen. I'd put money on betting the handheld screen will even remain at 720p.
All I'm hoping for is bluetooth compatibility for headphones, maybe a faster X2 chip to bring even more big third party titles ported over, and some QOL adjustments on the design.
@nhSnork I can afford to pay whatever Nintendo wants to charge me. All I was saying is other companies sell at a loss and make money. There's more than one way to make money.
@nhSnork only 12% of people said they wouldn't upgrade to a pro model. I don't think I'm lobbying for anything that people aren't asking for.
@nhSnork at least you admitted you are against an upgrade because it helps your gaming budget. That's big of you to admit. Now just because you can't afford a Ferrari don't hold back Ferraris from others.
Yawn. 4K is for chumps. HDR would benefit Nintendo games. One only has to look at newer Tegra stuff to know what’s going to happen.
By the way expect possibly confusing eshop things as high up devs have been told the switch will be an evolving platform so I personally except a new hardware upgrade every few years for quite some time. My personally guess is the Switch will be a living platform for 10 years with 3 upgraded models. Controllers will probably be backwards compatible and old games will run better on newer models, and I imagine that some new games won’t run on older devices. Think Gameboy and Gameboy color, Advance et al.
That’s literally what we were told ages ago prior to launch. Let’s see what happens. Bonus point I once thought the Switch OS was a variant of Android... Before I got one in my hands and discovered it was way too solid to be Android. Lol.
My number one problem with my Switch experience is moving between games. Solution: Mutliple Cart slots, multiple SD slots and MUCH larger internal memory AND better interface with game folders ...like the WiiU!
My number two problem is WiFi connectivity. Sometime I think my Switch must be encased in lead. Solution: better wifi connectivity (however that is done).
The number three area is battery improvement. Not sure if the revision adequately addressed it, b/c I still have the O.G.
The joy cons need to be fixed. Rails too!
A premium case (my back was all cracked and has been replaced) and a real kickstand that doesn't fly off would be nice too.
I would be stoked about adding another Switch like this to the house for $375.
Also: I don’t mind buying a new switch every few years. I get new stuff with work so there’s that but for personal use paying what... €400ish every 3 years is more than okay for me. I wouldn’t mind if it was every year if it meant better hardware like OLED displays, metal body et al. God I want HDR 1080 as the Switch’s portable display. OLED is amazing but gets worse over time so annual updates on that would be okay! A high frame rate as seen on devices like Apples incredible iPad Pro’s would also be wonderful. Plus the display exists in oled form on VR displays. But this is just wishful thinking not industry insight.
I played my Vita recently and admired its genuinely phenomenal OLED screen and light body weight. But always hated the storage situation on it.
4K is never going to happen. Even the XBOX ONE X and PS4 Pro can't really handle 4K natively. (only checkerbox and a handful minor 4k titles)
But I would love to see stable 1080p docked and 720p handheld on all games.
It should really not have any exclusive games. So make it like the PS4 Pro / XBOX ONE X, with updates to existing games and special support for newer games. But keep those games playable on the OG Switch / lite.
Any upgrades will be efficiency based, better RAM, storage upgrade, better screens, better controllers and the like. Try cramming half the crap people are asking for into a unit that size without it melting in your hands or the battery life being halved or quartered and sounding like a hairdryer. If they did produce this fantasy Switch “pro” it would probably only sell to a very small demographic, the gaming equivalent of hi-fi buffs. Nintendo would lose money on it and we know how they hate to lose money. Polls in here mean nothing as it’s pretty much all enthusiasts taking part in it.
@WiltonRoots Processors get more efficient and more powerful with newer models. They don't usually generate more heat or use more power from generation to generation. So that wouldn't really lower the batterylife. For instance the Redbox Switch uses the SAME battery as the OG Switch but has a newer (more efficient) CPU so it uses less power to run games. Which gives it the sizeable batterylife.
A Switch pro with an even newer CPU at a higher clockspeed would be like the battery life of the OG Switch but with more power. (Around the base XBOX ONE I believe)
+powerful hardware (1080p is ok if portable)
*handling multitasking without closing apps, broadcast via twitch.
*better fps, better details, more details,sharper details
*duo cpu, dock powers up and becomes a whole with hybrid.
1+1= powerful console.(4k etc)
*a hdd in dock
*VR for metroid 4 (docked only)
+bluetooth for any device
+better in multitasking, capable of broadcasting on twitch
i forgot achievements!!!!
My only request for the next Switch is that it plays Pikmin 4, 1080 Switch, Waverace Deluxe, Eternal Darkness BeSwitched Edition, F-Zero Extreme and Luigi’s Mansion 4. Otherwise I’m good.
One of the ideas I floated a while back was a Pro Dock rather than a new console iteration. The idea is the dock would have a companion board inside to improve performance but not put people in a position of having to buy a whole new console or not have access to new entries to the Switch's library. Even if the Pro Dock was $150 I'd still buy it over a $300-$400 new console iteration. With the Switch Lite I don't think Nintendo can really afford to have Pro exclusive titles.
@sanderev good points!
Folders out of the box would be nice!
More game card slots please, at least 4.
@Sean161
Exactly.... Therfore whinging
If it works like the PS4 Pro/X1X then i'm ok with this, what i don't want is exclusive games on it or games what might as well be exclusive on it because of how bad they run on the OG console.
@Cdodd
i did not read your comment back then, and it was the first thing i thought too.
its what i like to see also.
but it has its flaws, some games will be produced for docking mode only, maybe it will become confusing for consumers.
One of the three things I chose in the features poll was "other" and that "other" is the inclusion of a screen-based controller like the Wii U gamepad.
There's a 99% chance it would never happen but it would phenomenal to see it return with games like Nintendo Land and ZombiU.
They definitely need to work on the build quality, my switch was not a lunch switch but about 9 or 10 months after lunch, and mine is cracked, also the screen is being pushed out sometimes from what I understand expansion of the battery.
Make no mistake the switch was a quickly put together piece of hardware, I really love the joycons but the part in between the joycons the actual unit itself is pretty bad design.
this is the first Nintendo product I have ever had issues with in my entire life and I own all the Nintendo products LOL. I should say except for my launch day wii graphics card going out.
Just dump everything into it, make it super expensive, then complain when it doesn't sell well.
@WallyWest what runs bad on the og model would be subjective. I mean I think the games on the current model run poorly but there are clearly differences of opinion on that. The good news is only 12% won't be buying the new model so there won't be many left with a gimped version
@PALversusNTSC the dock replacement idea is just people's way of trying to find the cheapest upgrade possible. Just sell a new tablet separately and be done with it. Don't cheap out.
@PALversusNTSC well I think a pro dock would push devs to go the enhancement route rather than making exclusive titles that work with pro hardware. Portability is still a selling point of the device after all, and making a game you can only play docked would remove player bases who play Portable, as well as all those who own a Switch Lite.
@LUIGITORNADO I'm with you. 4k really is a waste of processing power IMHO. I do hope they beef up the CPU, GPU and Ram. Needs way more RAM.
@construx
I don't see overall graphics upgrade for a Pro model ideal. Id buy another system just for better image quality and more stable performance. With decent quality of life-upgrades like more onboard storage, bigger and brighter screen and longer battery life. Most high-end Switch games are rendered at 720-900p without any anti-aliasing, so there is very much room for improvements just on image quality without even touching the graphics much, and should be really easy to update most games to support it.
I'd trade nearly everything listed above for analog triggers - how can we ever expect proper GameCube emulation otherwise?
Docked 4K would be ok I suppose but a higher-powered GPU/CPU would take care of most of the minor visual complaints I have with the current Switch (while docked that is, most things look great while portable).
Aside from that? Wireless audio. My phone from 2009 has it, why doesn't the Switch?
@Mynameishello Agreed. The Vita still has the superior screen. I'd love for my Switch to look half as good as my OG Vita.
@sixrings ... yeah, the "options" schtick wouldn't work here. If a dockless Switch were to be released, players would want it to be as powerful as possible. If Nintendo delivered on that front, then that could possibly fragment the user base, which is what "options" shouldn't do.
If a dockless Switch with roughly the same power as the variants on the market right now were to be released? I mean, isn't that the original Switch already? The original Switch which gives you the "options" to either leave it in the dock, or take it on the go?
No one is arguing against options, but a docked-only Switch just goes against the idea of the Switch so much so that I don't think Nintendo is going down that route right now.
Backwards compatibility is an absolute must. That’s a first thing.
After that it needs to be an upgrade in power so that AAA ports can ported over as they are now with the OG Switch.
Anything else is a bonus.
Nintendo have to make sure that they don’t let the success of the Switch falter by making it so far underpowered against the next gen that it falls away completely. It’s a fine line to tread but Nintendo have learnt from the Wii U so I expect them to get this next stage right:
@Vee_Flames yes if a switch that doesn't switch makes sense then a docked switch makes sense. Don't cherry pick options which only suit you.
For the sake of argument a docked switch at the switches current power could be priced cheaper eliminating the screen and battery. How is a cheap switch not pro consumer.
If the docked switch was more powerful it would just scale to fit the needs of the switch line. Plus some people will buy multiple switches. One for home (pro) one for away (lite). How is that bad for Nintendo.
Options are good things.
@Xansies I would be fine with $999 if it was nice enough. Having nice things is nice. Not everything has to be targeted at the lowest possible price.
I would like to see all the listed changes and not just the three I voted for.
The important thing is, having a really powerful docked mode, this has to be priority, even at the expense of not being compatible with on the go game play.
But I guess none of this is relevent,if it's on its way this year, it's already designed and probably built.
I'm weary of upgrades like this because they can alienate customers who bought older models. I've heard that games like Hyrule Warriors Legends run terribly on the old 3DS because they were designed specifically to run on the New 3DS and I think that might be the case with the Switch as well. I don't mind if games run better on newer hardware; it just annoys me when that leads to having them run terribly on older devices that they're still supposed to be compatible with. It's a new milking trend, and quite frankly, it's extremely douchey.
Can't believe better battery life wasn't an option.
@DrDaisy you're a Dr. You can afford the upgrade. No one looks at the plusses. A pro model extends the life of the system in general. Sure there maybe some games that won't run as good but the system will last longer. Without a upgrade we will be buying a switch 2 earlier. Either way we end up spending money. I don't trust Nintendo's backward compatibility so I'll take a pro in the meantime
Hopefully something similar to the Alienware Ufo, minus those triangular bezels it has.
@sixrings That's not the point. Not everyone likes to upgrade the same damn thing all the time like a stereotypical iPhone user. Like I said, I don't care if the software runs better on newer hardware. I just don't like it when it means newer software sucks on older models. But if you want to encourage this disgusting form of planned obsolescence, that's your prerogative.
Vast majority of comments suggest people dont want a switch pro, they want a switch 2. I dont think there will be a pro but I expect the switch 2 to be announced in 2021 to try keep up with ps5/next box
@R1spam Nicely put.
I think 4K would be pushing the switch too much (unless the additional power needed was in the dock). I'd be happy with the Switch Pro just being able to handle all of its games at a native 1080p and smooth performance (both docked and undocked) and better textures. Currently too many games have lower than 1080p resolution while docked and unfortunately several games suffer from performance issues. It would be nice to see huge games like Doom, Wolfenstein, and the Witcher 3 look better and sharper on the Switch Pro at 1080p.
I don't care as long as it doesn't have exclusive games and kill the OG model. May as well just go for Switch 2 if that's the case.
I don't want to be buying a new system every other year. A Pro model that included analog triggers, built in wireless audio, alloy case and other such improvements are things that aren't necessary, but good to extend it's lifespan for new adopters and others who have one, but want some new features.
I'd really love to see 1080p with mostly stable 60 fps. I do not need 4k on a Nintendo console, that's what my xbox is for.
@sixrings a pro model doesn't do that at all. The PS4 and Xbox one are dying out at the same rate the 360 and PS3 did and they didn't have a pro model.
I would like to have more durable Joy-Cons where my character doesn't start running to the left without use input, and for the warranty to cover all parts of the system, rather that everything BUT the screen.
A protective screen cover (one that flips open and wraps around to the back) that comes standard would be nice, as well.
If it happens great, if it doesn’t, fine.
Bit of a power boost would be nice but nothing that will get exclusive software. Making it ‘nicer’ quality would be a plus. Not bothered about a higher resolution screen but a better screen would be welcome as would less bezel.
Wireless Audio support is top of the list for me.
I would get a Switch Pro if Nintendo came up with a trade in / trade up deal. I would also like to make sure that i can transfer ALL of my games and saves
A "Switch Pro" would need to be backwards compatible with my current Switch cartridges
@DrDaisy this is the way of the world. Upgrading is now normal. It's your prerogative but accept youre in a growing minority.
@lordzand the PS3 and 360 were much closer to pc specs when they released then the PS4 and XBO. Digital foundry did a video covering this recently. As a result The ps3/360 generation could go longer. The XBO and PS4 were behind the eight ball day one.
I would much rather have whatever the successor is be what's next. Just keep focusing on pumping out some more exclusives and have the hardware team(s) focus on making the Switch 2 or whatever the best it can be out of the gate. If it's backwards compatible too, then even better. It'll be 5 or even 6 years by the time the big next gen games started coming out for PS5 and SeX.
I'd like to actually be able to play with friends and voice chat with them through the console itself. Ya know, like every single other gaming platform in existence. The fact that the Switch relies on a phone app to allow gamers to chat with each other is so archaic that I can't believe the developers actually signed off on that idea. Do you know who likes using the phone app and would prefer to keep the phone app and not have a built-in party chat system? LITERALLY. NOBODY.
@Ulysses Party chat has to be #1 for me. The Switch is great. The fact that I have to turn on my PS4, hop into party chat there with my friends, then switch my television's input back to the Switch in order to play while talking with friends is...bizarre. And it's STILL better than just burning through my phone's battery using some stupid app.
It just needs to perform better, whatever that entails. No more 540p 30fps chugfests. It needs to be 1080p60fps at minimum for all of their games. Let third party games not look like a blurry mess. Basically, if they could run Witcher 3 at 1080p, and could be powerful enough to get Cyberpunk and Final Fantasy VII Remake on par with other consoles, that's enough. Id even be willing to cut the portability for this sake. They made a portable-only Switch, so they could totally do a docked-only Switch
They should consider implementing the video upscaling AI of Nvidia for the Tegra X1+ Shield TV 2019 for games.
I'm pretty simple. I just want it to be 1080p/60fps docked or undocked and better draw distances to populate the game worlds more. That's it. If I had to put in a request though, and hear me out first, 3d. That's right. Bring back the no glasses 3d. I loved that about the 3ds and wished it was a staple to all Nintendo games.
@StevenG the problem is you aren't most people. Nintendo isn't trying to sell hardware to StevenG, they are targeting the price people are willing to spend on what is really a luxury toy for either themselves or their kids. We've kinda agreed historically that the price for that is between 200-500 with 500 being kind of high. The PS3 was 600. It got a lot of pushback and is one of the things credited for Sony lagging behind that gen.
Is it too much to ask for 4K, better processing, faster loading times, longer battery life, less system heat, louder speakers, brighter screens, bluetooth, better build quality, and a cheaper price?
@Arkin1988 - There's nothing stopping Nintendo from making a D-pad Joy-Con right now. They've even stated in the past that they have no plans to produce one or even update the Joy-Con, which, lowers the chances of this ever happening, unfortunately. Nintendo moves very slowly and can be quite stubborn (not a news flash).
Hoping against hope, I'm with you and would love an "official" version! I have the Hori D-pan Joy-Con and it's okay but limited. That said, I still recommend it if you're looking for a D-pad option.
The feature I want most is for Switch Pro to be packaged with Metroid Prime 4 and on store shelves Spring 2020.
@idrawrobots The only thing that's too much to ask for there is the lower price.
@Isaix if it doesn't have exclusive games, what's the point in upgrading? The only reason I would want to upgrade is to play games that the current switch cannot support.
1080p screen for handheld mode
1440p docked (or at least 1080p native across all titles)
More power!!!
I see a lot of people mention 4k, even on PC and xbox/ps4, 4k is silly demanding.. Got 1440p monitor myself and think 1440p is the sweet spot between performance and graphics
Stop this Pro nonsense. Nintendo won't be releasing a severely beefed up model with a premium price to sell beside a base model. They never have and never will. The rumour was wrong once and will be wrong again. It conflated an upgrade to a "Pro" concept. How this one word has infiltrated our vernacular after only ever one example (PS4) is insane. If this rumour is true, it will be another upgrade, a more substantial upgrade, and one similar to New 3DS replacing the old 3DS. So better battery, screen, storage, kickstand and probably a touch more power, and will sell at the same price. The old model will be discounted a little to clear the stock.
If Nintendo sell the console unit separately (so no controllers, dock, power supply or anything else) at a reasonable price like $180, I'd consider it. I would not buy an entire new system. The feature I'd want as a minimum is bigger screen due to smaller bezel. Storage would be next while battery life and a boost in power would help confirm the upgrade (if the unit sold separately!).
@HalBailman i agree its a rumor and we saw this rumor pop up last year as well and nothing happen.
All I know is the Switch Pro better have folders!
I'm surprised 4K is doing so well in the poll, I couldn't care less about it. I consider myself a videophile and I buy 4K movies even though I don't have a 4K TV just because I like having the best version (and the price difference isn't much). 1080p looks great in general, even on my 106" screen. I would just like to see more switch games hitting 1080p/60, and a reduced bezel would be icing on the cake. I would buy a second Switch for those features for $349 or less. Drop the OG Switch down to $250 and you've got a nice lineup.
@RiasGremory Actually, the rumour last year was partially right as there was the minor upgrade released. The thing is, the source conflated it to a "pro". I believe this is an error so many people now make when talking about upgrades. A pro is a very special concept, not any old upgrade to hardware.
@HalBailman some people thinks the pro will be a beefed up switch with stronger specs which is not going to happen since switch still has a few more years to it before its successor comes out reason why nintendo should hold off on any spec upgrade till then.
@Grapplegeek It's not happening. If it happens it will be the traditional upgrade that Nintendo do, like New 3DS, so will be fully compatible because it still will be a Switch, only nicer.
Higher quality build and improved battery life (at least 50% more) are my bare minimum requirements for me to consider upgrading.
@RiasGremory I don't deny a boost in performance, especially because the architecture of the Switch lends itself to dynamic resolution and frame rate scaling. These are just parameters so older games would take advantage too. It's like a car - the more juice you give it, the faster it goes. I just doubt it will be to a Pro concept level, and certainly not that it would increase the price or be sold as an actual pro model.
@HalBailman the new shield tv is a small boost and it includes HDR and better upscaling to 4K. That's all the "pro" needs to be to make a lot of people happy.
I demand the Dock come with a built-in 1TB HDD since 1TB Micro SD Cards cost an insane amount. Then when you dock your system, you get access to even more games that won't fit on my Micro SD Cards.
Man, that most people voted for a beefier CPU over actual features like less bezel or 4k upscaling really shows how the community is spec crazy. This is Nintendo! Their approach is what innovations do we want and with what cost effective hardware can we reach that goal. A better CPU might be necessary to achieve some goals but ask for too much and it's just a useless expense because Devs won't develop for basically two different machines. Few PS4 games make more use of the pro.
More than anything in the world? Non drifting joy cons.
OLED screen would be nice. The Vita screen is still nicer than the switch!
As many other have asked for, basically the current model, but with fewer compromises. The Switch is still a great but of tech, and I can still remember my disbelief at seeing games like Breath of the Wild and MK8 running on a tiny sliver of console, but it’d be naive to say the console is without compromises.
The greater the leap the Pro makes, the more of a gap it will create between not only the original model, but also the Switch Lite, which is presumably a console Nintendo doesn’t want rendered obsolete having only just launched it.
As such, aiming for a truly generational leap in a mid-generation upgrade would be whole counter productive, as well as against Nintendo’s ethos of breathing new magic into so-called ‘withered’ (IMO better translated as ‘matured’) tech.
The Switch, as a concept, is essentially the ‘perfect’ console for many people. Great games, massive library, and take-anywhere appeal. But with niggles surrounding dropped resolution, frame rates, and limited battery life not uncommon, it would be hard to argue that the concept has yet to be fully realised. As such, the most sensible thing to ask from a mid-gen upgrade would be that it strive to ‘perfect’ the vision of the current console, rather than be true successor aiming for lofty new targets. It would be nice if the ‘impossible ports’ could become a little less impossible, and minor performance issues in first party games could become a thing of the past.
In short, what I think most people would like is not a Switch 2, but a fully realised version of the Switch 1.
I want a non-portable, dedicated console Switch with a stronger processor with additional usb ports and an aux port. I have an original Switch, and i never play it in handheld mode. It stays docked to my 36" TV it runs and looks great. I wouldn't mind more horsepower under the hood to insure smooth gameplay and crispier graphics.
4K? 5G?
I think a bigger screen, faster chip and longer battery life is all we get
@sixrings Play Hyrule Warriors on OG 3DS and you will see, it runs terribly and was clearly never made with that in mind especially when its completely fine on the New 3DS.
@Fido007 Better resolution,framerate,battery life,etc.
It would just be nice to have a device that can run games on docked mode while mobile.
A $400 switch pro that doesn't even perform at base xb1 specs will be murdered by XBX and PS5.
@HalBailman you get it. So many people in here with unrealistic pipe dreams...
@Maxz It's a work in progress. If they carry on down this line then the next model will no doubt be sublime in comparison, but we're dealing with people where no upgrade Nintendo do will be good enough. If Nintendo followed the wishes of comment sections they'd end up with the equivalent of the Homermobile.
More power plus backwards compatibility would rock!
For it to play doom eternal but I already have a pc for that.
@WallyWest am I supposed to be upset a handful of games weren't that great on the og 3DS when the new 3DS came out. That's illogical. I owned a xbox. Was happy when a xbox one x came out. I just owned both. It's not some huge deal you're making it out to be. Either you upgrade or you continue with the og model. If games come out which don't run really well on the og model the likelyhood is those few games wouldn't have made it on the system if a pro didn't exist anyways. So upgrade or ignore those few games. But really it seems selfish that those who don't want to upgrade are trying to hold options back from those who want to. Just sounds like a Toyota driver upset he can't afford a Lexus.
I'd like bluetooth
Number 1 for me would be build quality. I want it to use smartphone materials, guerrilla glass and more sturdy thumbsticks. This is closely followed by a processor that can run BOTW and link's awakening without slow down. I don't care about 4k as I would need to buy a new TV. Also, correct me if I'm wrong, wouldn't up-scaling or rendering at a higher rate put more strain on the system? Are we assuming that a more powerful system goes without saying when discussing 4k? Personally I would rather see what a more powerful system could achieve at 1080p, in terms of more polygons, characters on screen, less pop-in, better frame rates. I do not want extra dots at the expense of a more technically advanced game or poor performance elsewhere.
I want a second screen and clam-shell design, for Wii U/3ds ports. I also want a smaller overall design, for portability. Plus a D-pad. I think I just want a more powerful 3ds.
Instead of 4K, if we could have steady 1080p + 720p and 30+ fps with medium/above medium (in PC terms) quality graphics for all games (for example, Witcher 3), that should be fine with me.
And bigger storage options and bigger carts.
Wireless audio would be great too. And while we are at it, Apple Music, please!
Although not exactly related to the Switch "tablet", Nintendo needs to find a solution to joycon drift.
Plus a refresh of the eShop, better wishlist handling (and access to the wishlist from the web).
These are the Switch related features and upgrades I crave for.
And of course, the original DKC trilogy on the SNES app, DKC Returns, and a new DKC title, and a port of Fire Emblem 7. And Nintendo please, put the soundtracks of your games on Apple Music.
I now feel ashamed for my gluttony.
@Fido007
Lots of people will upgrade for a performance increase in their existing games and extra features like those examples in the article. Those that aren’t bothered wont. Exclusive games would be an awful idea though, it would split the Userbase. PS4 Pro and XB1X don’t have exclusives for a very good reason.
@Trajan
That’s why they won’t do that. It’ll be a very slight processing upgrade if you’re lucky but with some improvements in the screen, materials etc.
This feels like it will be a 3DS to New 3DS XL type of upgrade, kind of a mid-generation refresh with a slightly more powerful CPU, potentially more RAM to support a game a developer like Monolith is requesting. In fact, the last time we got Xenoblade Chronicles 3D it was exclusive to the 3DS XL as the extra CPU was needed.
Personally I'm all for upgrading to a slightly more powerful Switch that would enhance the docked performance, as that's the primary way that I play anyway. With the techniques the Switch uses in game I would think it wouldn't be too difficult to scale a lot of games to higher resolutions with a small patch. If it meant boosting Breath of the Wild and Splatoon 2 to a full 1080p with more stable frame rates (Breath of the Wild), and maybe even push select games to 4K such as Snipper Clips or perhaps 1-2 Switch. Rendering out in 4K isn't impossible given certain games and special techniques. Granted even a Switch Pro would likely be less powerful than a PS4 but with smart use of features even LEGO games look and perform better on the current Switch than they do on the base Xbox One. Again it all depends on the games and what performance a future Switch Pro might have. I doubt a Tegra X2 would be used until the Switch 2, but anything's possible. My guess is a higher clocked Tegra X1 with additional RAM, and possibly a 1080p screen.
4K 🤣🤣🤣🤣 no chance! Just a stable frame rate would do
@Xansies then i really dont know what im doin wrong. Im on my second set already, had it since launch and it ruined 2 of my favorite games, i cant play smash or splatoon anymore because of this drift. Platformers are also impossible to play now because my character never stands still.
1080p/60fps upgrade
@nessisonett "Nintendo never cared about graphics"? When the it was n64 vs ps1 they did. Mario 64 vs ape escape made it obvious PlayStation couldn't compete. The market didn't care because Sony were cool (and CDs too!) and inferior graphics won. That's when Nintendo "stopped caring" because the vast majority of their customers don't care.
It's unbelievable how a silly topic like this can attract 250+ comments.
So, I want a bigger screen, bluetooth, 5G, headphones, external HD, powerful cpu & gpu... In other words I want a PC.
I think the switch pro would be a mistake, a bit like the Wii U.
They would be better off with a new switch than a face lift.
The switch lite worked because it made it more affordable.
I bought a Switch Lite over the holiday season, I must say that I really enjoy it. I haven't had a console in a very long time. Although I would love to see a more powerful Switch, I would like to get some mileage out of my Switch Lite. I don't want my fun spoiled by buyer's remorse. I would much rather see the current form be pushed closer to the limits, and be completely blown away with a new console that dwarfs the Switch in 2 - 3 years.
Dont beleive in a switch pro as long switch sells good. But maybe small upgrade to current one like better battery we got and next time something else
Most importantly it needs agreed support from some developers. The New 3ds got Xenoblade as an exclusive, ran a couple of wii u ports better and SNES games. Wasnt worth the upgrade at all. On the flip side it shouldn't leave regular switch owners on the dark or playing choppy versions.
I want it to have a purpose. I mean, can it play games that the regular switch can't handle? Yes, well call me interested.
Native 3DS BC, just imagine being able to play all those games on a big screen.
1.1080p portable mode with no bezels
2. 1080p/60 fps in docked mode or 4k/30fps
3. 64/128gb onboard memory
4. Wireless headphones
Maybe a fan that cools system more efficiently?
Personally I feel the 720 handheld/1080 docked is fine. If this gets bumped to 1080 handheld and 4K docked I don't think we would notice the difference in handheld but that is just a personal opinion and I know this is a big want from the community. I don't care either way.
What would I want with a Switch Pro. List below in order.
-Less bezel more screen. The bezel on the Switch is pretty big, at least cut this in half.
-The joy cons to have an actual D-Pad on them, I know you can get customs but this should be standard.
-Analog triggers on the joy cons please!
-longer battery life (I think this will already be a given, updated Switch and Switch Lite got this already)
-The new Tegra chip in the updated models, unlocked, or a new GPU that will help support games of the next gen, doesn't have to be the new PS or XBOX quality but enough that porting won't be an absolute NO, example, right now current gens ports are happening though they have to downgrade a bit and that is fine.
-Bluetooth
It might seem like I just want better joy cons with this list and that is true, sorta
Software side
-I would love to be able to organize my games and have folders.
-Friend request system needs a rework. (I have friends that play and due to it being absolute garbage we took over a year to finally add each other)
-text and voice chat
My most wanted feature: no handheld mode! And all the benefits that come with not having to compromise.
@Camo-joe I'd say a switch pro will happen not this year but next at the earliest. Nintendo will wait to release after the other two companies so their not competing. So of say next year and or potentially 2022 but it'll happen.
The next iteration of the Switch will come out in the next three or four years, this “rumors” are ridiculous by this point
@Sean161 Well if you think that articles such as this one are pointless then simply don't read it or comment on it. You could instead just leave that to other people who are interested in discussing the possibilities of new hardware? That's an easy solution for you.
I'd like to see Nintendo do proper VR. Don't get me wrong, I love the Labo VR Kit, but it has limited potential. A proper VR headset (especially one with a head strap) would be great for a Switch Pro.
@Sabroni the GameCube as well had a leg up on the ps2, even if it was behind the Xbox. To the point, the Xbox was much more powerful hardwarewise than the PS2 and gamecube, but didn't perform nearly as the PS2 for a lot of reasons. Not being able to get into Japan was one of them. Same exact thing happened with the PS3 and 360. Now this doesn't mean consumers don't care about graphic, only that they care about the games more. There is a limit to what's acceptable and hardware doesn't just limit graphics, but also what kind of things can be made. This was an issue with the Wii that took Nintendo a decade to fix. It made a sh*tton of money, but because developers straight couldn't make modern games on it, the more core gamers ignored the thing and that along with bad marketing contributed to the Wii u flopping. That's why with the switch they are much better about ports and less casual games balanced with there other games and why that strategy can't continue without a hardware upgrade. The switch is too weak to run current gen games, we are now on the next gen, and almost every worthwhile PS3 and 360 game has almost already been ported. Without an upgrade, the switch becomes the Wii again where the only ones that make games are sh*tty d tier devs with licensed games, Nintendo themselves, and just dance.
My point is, hardware doesn't just mean graphics. It's a hard limit on what kind of games you can make. If you want more innovative games, you want a device with more juice.
@Edu23XWiiU I doubt it. The other two companies moved to a three year cycle. Nintendo would be foolish to not follow that trend or they will be left in the dust. They are already way behind hardware that came out in 2012 while there is hardware that exist right now that can bump them up to at least in between the PS4 and PS4 pro level and still maintain their successful form factor and gimmick. It would be absolutely stupid for them not to put out an upgrade before the next gen comes out not because of customers, but because it'll be harder to find developers willing to just make and publish something for Nintendo when they can hedge their bets by releasing games on all platforms. And before you say, they can just port it, they can't. The current switch can't run the majority of modern games let alone the next gen games. Luckily, the next gens main iteration is Ray tracing. Turn that off and everything that can run on it can be scaled to the current gen. Meaning, all they have to do is make a switch on par with a PS4 and they are golden.
@Dirty0814 I disagree. It can't release during the holidays for that reason, but the ideal timing is before the other two. The switch isn't normally a direct competitor because of the form factor, but a switch that's 400-500 bucks would be. The problem is, if the new switch is still mobile it will be much weaker than the Ps5, SX, for the same price for the same audience, that's a hard sell.
Even if it comes after it's a hard sell not only for consumers, but devs. I mean, they are running out of PS3 ports they can do. Honestly the longer they wait the more likely they'll be stuck with a Wii and Wii u situation where there is a drought of games because they can get anyone to work with them to make games just for them and make enough games themselves through first and second part devs. At which point core gamers will leave. That's a lesson they learned with the Wii and Wii u, the nerds are the ones that spend the money gotta keep the nerds around. Literally the best time for them to throw an upgrade out is this summer to circumvent any problems and give what's possible for their system a shot in the arm
That's really the main problem with the switch: it's not that it needs a new version because of graphic and resolution, they are literally running out of games that are possible because they're marketing as a home console, but stuck with hardware with the same capability of a 15 year old system.
@Xansies a new switch right before will work just as well as of they released during the ps and Xbox releases. Everyone is waiting this year to get the new systems. If Nintendo waits until later next year or most likely 2022 then the huge rush will be over and it won't be any competition really. Releasing anything this year will be considered competition. I lean more towards a 2022 release.
@Dirty0814 the problem is that the other two switched to a three year cycle. If they wait til 22 then in 23 the next one releases and they're still way behind. Best bet is to just follow the same 3 year cycle. Hell, Microsoft seems to be geared to release one at different price points almost yearly. The environment has changed. If you wait for no competition, you'd be out of luck because that means you'd always be behind the curve.
Oh, with the Microsoft thing, Series X seems to be the model identifier. They seem to be gearing to release a bunch of xboxs in different form facotrs, specs, and price points whenever going forward. The 7year console cycle ended with the ps4pro and one X
Sorry, anyone who uses the term "OG" immediately loses respect from me.
As for a "Pro" model, I don't want it. Nintendo should release the next console with full BC that takes everything good about the Switch and fixes everything that wasn't as good because let's be honest, there simply isn't anything bad about the console. Power/specs mean absolutely nothing to gamers, only hobbyists. The games are great and the sales are only proving that's what matters and not the power.
Better battery, better kickstand, + bluetooth for wireless headphones and I will buy no questions asked - anything else like a better quality body, higher res screen, etc., would be a bonus.
@sixrings Pro/X1X don't have exclusive games and even games what run much better on them are still playable enough on the OG consoles so sorry but your point is invalid.
4K Output is extremely unlikely. Sorry but really... I rather had a 60FPS option for all 30FPS games. Or at least unlocked framerate.
I'm not expecting a 4K situation. It may turn out like the New 3DS line. I realize there are differences, like the system age of the 3DS when they released it. I'd LIKE it to be a higher res system. More power would be great, as would better battery and larger internal storage.
@WallyWest you're the one saying that the warriors games weren't playable on the original 3DS. That's subjective. Nintendo obviously thought it was playable since they released it. My point is perfectly valid. As an owner of a original xbox one and a xbox one x I never had these complaints. I was also an owner of a 2DS and a new 35S. I accepted the limitations or the advantages of my system.
I just want to be capable of a smooth 30fps 1080p BOTW experience
Made an account just to post this. Surprised no one hasn't said anything about this...???
I think the pro switch should get VRR (Variable refresh rate), g-sync and or freesync.
1. This would help a lot with titles that have inconsistent frame rates. So smoother gameplay.
2. This feature can also be used to save battery life on the device.
3. Newer TVs and monitors already support these features and more will in the feature.
4. Add this feature to the screen on the switch and also when docked.
As long as the Switch pro can have a better build quality and a little more powerful CPU and GPU, and the handheld display is 1080p and not 720p I will be fine. Also if could have adaptive sync that would be awesome if the switch is powerful enough to support it that is and maybe higher nit brightness and better screen quality. Also, joy-cons that don't drift would be awesome too. I would gladly pay $400-$500 for this machine, and maybe add wifi 6 and support for Bluetooth headphones because why not.
@Xansies Nintendo doesn’t need to upgrade, and it’s getting the big third party releases (not everything is CoD, you know) already, one example is Overwatch 2. The others don’t even offer real 4K yet, and they want to offer that Ray Tracing sh!t, and that it’s a hugely expensive gimmick. A graphic card and a PC that can give you that experience on it’s fullest is way more expensive than the 3 consoles combined. Get your expectations grounded, there is not going to be much difference graphically speaking with the competitions’ “next gen” hardware compared with what they offer right now, and that RTX thing won’t even work on their consoles. That trick works well with older games, with newer games, it’s just more detailed shadows. I gotta give it to the reflection effect though, it looks great. But I prefer newer gameplay experiences that the same sh!t, “bigger and better” that Sony and Microsoft offer every time. It’s dull, and people have gotten tired of that, that’s why the success of the Switch is so significant
It was a challenge for me to only pick 3 features of what I want in a Switch Pro. But ultimately, the most important feature for me is an improved, current and more powerful CPU and GPU. I have a $40 LG phone that has a more powerful CPU than the OG Switch. That's egregious! The next feature that I want on my Pro is an improved, larger, higher contrast, 1080P screen. Finally, the Switch Pro, by name, has to output in 4K, but if all 3 features cost more than $400, then I Nintendo can drop the 4K for the first two features on my list.
I want to see the Switch Pro be able to hook up to the TV via HDMI without the dock, to give it even more portable options to go to friends and families home without have to carry a bunch of equipment
@Edu23XWiiU Absolutely not. Game development depends on hardware. If you want colorful ps3 level games until 2025, fine. Personally I feel like there is no reason to limit developers and videogames as a medium in that way. My argument isn't for bigger, prettier, games, it's for different games. Have you noticed that there's only one artsytle used with the switch because of the resolution limits? I have. It's fine, but I'd rather it be at least possible for other things. The problem with hard hardware limits is that it limits options. I really do appreciate that like with ff12, DQ11 and dmc 3 the ports get exclusive enhancements and all the dlc because if they didn't, sometimes the games are a, while not a huge downgrade, absolutely not worth paying double what you would on another system at the same time. You know what better hardware would allow? Synchronized release dates on games that have "coming to Xbox, PS4, and switch (eventually) as their tagline. Hardware isn't just about pretty pictures and there is hardware available now that could easily allow for the switch to reach at least PS4 level to allow for more or all games to be ported over and still be the switch. I don't see any argument to not want that. Hell, that means more game sales for Nintendo because their form factor offers portability where the others dont. It's of course something they are at least looking into.
Oh, and overwatch runs like ass on the switch. Which is also kinda the point. It doesn't have to. The switch is running 2015 hardware. Bump it up. 100 dollar phones have more juice in 2020. It's the same argument that made the PS4 pro and Xbox one X kinda unnecessary in 2017, but the OG versions are really feeling their age now, which make iterations much better now. The switch is fine right now, but it's on the edge
Tldr if you want more expansive and creative games you want better hardware if you want more PS3 ports, you don't.
I would love to have a 4K, more powerful, desktop only switch! Then they update breath of the wild to play at 4K60 would be great! Nintendo already has a hybrid switch device, a portable only switch device, now they need a all powerful device desktop only!
I think last year was probably the time to do a more powerful Switch as this year is going to be the start of the next generation and likely will spell the end of any ports barring simple 2D games.
Nintendo would be better off waiting a couple more years then doing a Switch 2 with enough horsepower to handle next gen ports.
I’d still buy a new Switch Pro if it has a larger screen and support for AirPods but I’m less bothered about extra horsepower now as it will soon be moot.
I would like a 3D Switch. I miss playing in 3D.
Zelda and Metroid and even Pikmin and Mario could all benefit from better performance and graphical capabilities. They deserve to sit besides other modern games without a huge disparity in detail and fidelity. (Not to mention Fire Emblem which is a growing franchise, and maybe even Splatoon to keep up competitive frame rates with modest graphical improvements)
Yes, they can all be great games without that, but I want them to live up to their full potential, as well.
Ideally, the games will scale to the original Switch well enough, but I'm willing to pay $400 to chain a new Nintendo console to a TV and let new Nintendo games be at their best in my home.
It's all about price for me. If they release a "pro" model, they are outright saying the original tech is now dated. So when it launches it should be at the same price point as the original launched at, and the original should lower in price by 50-75 dollars.
@aaronsullivan how much more processing power does a system need to get these 900p games to 1080p? How much of a bump to get these 30fps games to 60fps. People say the Tegra X2 would only bump things up 20%. Is that enough.
In my opinion here are the possibilities of what has been suggested:
1) 4K Possibly but there are so many variables that would change because of this and price/cost is always a concern with Nintendo
2)CPU upgrade Possible but within the same architecture due to cost of redesign and software compatibility
3) Metal body Never. It makes no sense aesthetically and adds no value. Plus metal damages easier than a well made polymer material
4) Thinner bezel Possibly but it would need the CPU and additional system memory to support the screen
5) Wireless Audio I think this will happen because it was main customer complaint and easiest to implement for the increased cost
6) 5G No because they have gone on record as stating that deviates from the purpose of gaming and what they see for their consoles.
7) Stationary Switch Duh, it already does this. Did you miss the meeting?
I think the larger game cards are coming because they have already updated the code to address them. I would personally like a web browser to use the Wifi to look up items while on the road. It would simplify things.
@Xansies
I have to respectfully disagree. Game development hinges on the expected outline. If the engineers are tasked with creating high end physics detection and lighting the normal path is to rely on hardware support. A resourceful programmer will learn to code smarter and clean up the code. The real issue is most of the current crop of programmers came up in a time of hardware wars and the never ending upgrade cycle. In the early days platforms were varied and limited and some great games were made.
As far as style I get the artwork comment and to some degree you are correct but I feel it is more complex than hardware limitations. The current tend in younger gamers is the Manga style and the cell shading/vector animations. This has dictated somewhat the style in games presently. The 64 gb cards should alleviate some of the artwork limitation by allowing the programmers to use more software rendering.
I'd love for it to be a beefed up version for just tv use. Package it with a pro controller and I'll be in heaven.
@Zidentia I don't know, I still don't feel it. I mean, there's a hard ceiling to what you can do with what you have. It's like asking someone to get, whatever big game just came out, the new modern warfare, to run on an N64. Theres only so much cutting corners, tricks, and programming ingenuity that you can do. The issue isn't that great games can't be made on limited hardware, it's that better games can be made easier on less limited hardware. And that's just kinda obvious. The issue with the switch is that now there are things that weren't viable at the time that are more than viable now that could boost the performance of the thing. Is it entirely necessary because were only looking at most a 20% improvement? No, it's not necessary, but there's definitely a market for it. Personally, I'm playing dq11 right now and even though the switch version is the best version because of the qol improvements, I really get bothered by how blurry it is in both modes. The thing is, that's a problem that is solvable by hardware. Sure there could have been more corners cut, but I'm 100% sure that with the amount of money and time allotted for the thing they did as much as humanly possible with what they were working with.
Which I guess is another thing about the programming thing, yeah you could wizard your way into something working, or just work with a bigger motor. The wizarding thing is of course much more difficult. I mean, what's the actual argument against an upgrade? You don't wanna buy it? That's fine, but I totally do. The two things can exist at the same time. Hell, I think Microsoft is going to start treating the Xbox like the surface series and start releasing one every year in multiple form factors. Less blurry and smoother switch games sound great to me, I honestly can't understand the argument where someone actually wants poorer versions of stuff.
@Xansies what “different” games are the other companies offering, exactly? More CoD? Because that’s what they all sell. Nintendo are the ones offering new games, and the art style of their games is quite original, and it looks great. New hardware should mean new interface as well, not better dust particles that you don’t even notice while you play. And the “new hardware” of Sony and Microsoft is of 2017, compared to the new PC’s of 2020
@Edu23XWiiU I mean, here's the thing, would it be nice to play cyberpunk, cod, something like the last of us 2 or the ff7 remake or the myriad of other things that can't run on the switch portably? My argument is yes. The things, the switch is limited to mobile hardware from 2015. Mobile hardware is moving faster than normal fullfat CPUs and apus even if those are also much better now than in 2017, especially since the PS4 and Xbox one X are still using now near decade old memory and cpu solutions.
Anyway the point is, you can make better things with better stuff. That's not a far out there argument. Yes, you can make creative things within the limits you have, but think of it this way, with a higher ceiling, you can be more creative. It's like arguing that gaming never developed Bette rhardware since the snes era, it doesn't make any sense.
Also, I was taking about the new consoles coming out this year which seem to be at least on par for midrange 2020 PC's, again contrary to the last gen where the PS4 and Xbox one were sh*tty compared to 2012 PC's. But it doesn't matter, the point is, there's no reason now that Nintendo can't put out a system that can run every game that's on the other systems portably at 900-1080p 30 with the "dust" am reflections turned off. Why would anyone want to play worse versions of games if they don't have to? What if someone wants to play COD on the switch? That's something that is possible literally today, there's no reason for them not to make it. What if someone wants a non-blurry version of Witcher 3 on a portable? No reason not to have that, the technology exists.
That's my argument. Like it seems like everyone is fine with the switch never upgrading ever, but that seems like a strange suggestion. Yeah, botw was good, but imagine a botw that was more expansive? There can't be one right now, the switch was maxed out from the jump. If you want innovation in games, there needs to be more juice. If you just want better looking games there needs to be more juice. And I don't mean dust and reflex and Ray tracing (which is absolutely a game changer if you look at stuff like control and if you don't see it you're blind or just being contrary), but just basic ass HD so things aren't blurry or having things popping in every 5 feet, things that improve the experience. Better mobile chips exist, they are in your phone now, there's no argument to Nintendo not putting something around a PS4 level in a portable and being able to run everything for the foreseeable future. Literally, the next gen is going to be slightly forward compatible, sh*t on the Series x will work on the X or One, with a slight jump, the variety and quality of games increases, the end, period.
Your argument assume that the switch is on par with the 2017 consoles. It isn't. It's on par with 2006 consoles. That's a huge gap that needs to be bridged. If you want to see Nintendo do something on the scale of Cyberpunk or any game that's not on the switch, there needs to be more juice. That doesn't mean that every game needs to be cyberpunk, but we're basically asking them to work with crayons when color pencils exist. The developers should have the tools needed to make the game they want. The switch could be better, so it should. It's as simple as that
.
it depends when it launches and price point. If it don't launch this year, than I would expect it to release in 2021 and if it does be a home console that plays switch carts and has zero games that can't be played on switch. Also it would need to be almost as powerful as ps5 and cost 400 max. Now as they would say in star fox "good luck".
@Xansies
I definitely understand your point of view. I had the exact same out look right before the Wii console. I chased the better hardware so I could play the next big game with the latest graphics etc. I was programming and building hardware so I focused on the PC genre again. I eventually grew tired of the spending good money on hardware only to be obsoleted again rendering my purchase outdated. The Wii was a tough purchase for me because I stopped focusing on consoles after the N64 era. I was technically in the Sega camp but PC's had my attention fully now.
What I missed, and what brought me back, was the attention to gameplay in the crop of Wii games and it took the aggravation away of not getting games to work right on my hardware. It reminded me of the NES/Genesis/SNES period of software. A lot of that was lacking in graphics but the stories and replay-ability were excellent. I skipped the Wii U but I had access to one and spent a lot of time with my DS before I stepped back in with the Switch.
Another effect Nintendo had on me was the direction I was taking professionally. Since I made my living in programming and hardware I always worked or created cutting edge releases and after seeing the resurgence of real gameplay and especially the 16 bit revival I changed my long term strategy to make software that is not necessarily cutting edge but has a long shelf life and smart code.
That being said there is nothing wrong with your feelings about wanting the best graphics and speed but sometimes that does not make a good game. I agree about DQ11. It is a great game
@Zidentia That's kinda what I've been saying. The graphics and stuff don't make a good game, but I do feel like not having the limitation on imagination on what is possible that comes with hardware limitations is unnecessary on any grounds except cost savings. I like botw, I'd have liked it more if they could have had more going on in Hyrule at one time or have had the resources for actually cities and and stuff. My feeling isn't on a I like pretty things, it's more that hardware limitations limits what you can physically do with the medium and that should be pushed away as a problem as much as possible. Say, Nintendo wants to make a sprawling city based game with all sorts of stuff going on at once like cyberpunk, it's can't be on the switch because it lacks the juice so they don't make that game. I think that's a shame. Good games don't have to be pretty, but ideas need the necessary tools to become reality. That's where I am with the switch. The games and ideas are good, they could be better now so there's no reason to not upgrade it so that the limitation on ideas is lessened for some time.
Anyway main point is, I want better hardware so someone can have a design idea and make it without restriction rather than have to work their ass off compromising to make something pared down work when they don't have to. Just throw a better SOC in the hunk of plastic and call it a day. There's no reason to work up hill if there's something that exists today that's 20-30% more powerful than what the switch is capable of.
Hey I'd just like to have the option to play games like red dead, call of duty, GTA, Madden, soul caliber, ace combat, F1, Dirt Rally, Plants VS Zombies, forza, halo, on my switch. And at the same time I'd like my dynamic resolution first party Nintendo games to hit 1080p.
Btw colourful art design does not make a good game. If it did the crash franchise would have been good. Sonic would be good. Lucky tale on Xbox would have been good. Just because you use cartoony graphics doesn't mean the game is good. Nintendo games are good because of the gameplay. But no one can tell me that games like Zelda and or metroid wouldn't be better with stronger hardware.
The Switch Pro is coming out not because it's necessary to gamers, but because Nintendo wants to eliminate its competition and go back to monopolizing the videogame industry as it did from 1983 to 1994. Sony and Microsoft's next consoles are going to sell poorly, and Nintendo wants to make that blow even harder on them by putting out a powerful console that is for the TV only, along with a new Super Mario game and a new Zelda game.
Sony and Microsoft have been selling because their systems have been movie players (while Nintendo systems have not done so apart from the Wii, which outsolde both the PS3 and Xbox 360). That trick won't work this year because almost everyone now has a Bluray player in the house. When the decision is strictly about gaming, people choose Nintendo.
@Isaix Why would you say that?
@Xansies They already have a mass market device, so it won't have the same problem as sony. There is a space for a premium device at a premium price. It won't sell in quite the same volume, but it will sell and have better margins.
@TheWingedAvenger None of the consoles are really sold as movie playing devices. None of them play 4k discs.
I don't necessarily expect Nintendo to "rejoin" the specs war (once again, it depends on the developers' vision)
Well, I'm talking in respect of a portable console, so here I come;
Increased resolution: Yes! I completely agree. If we're looking at a generation leap (and a deluxe offer), then we should be looking at a 1080p or more screen with HDR compatibility. As for the docked side, anything could happen, but that's not my focus (I don't know if 4K is probable, but next-gen consoles are targeting 8K.) Many excellent ports on Switch could benefit from massively improved resolution.
A more powerful CPU: In terms of new mobile chipsets, we're always talking about generational leaps. First of all, 'Mariko' actually came with GPU improvements but no CPU improvements, and its hidden potential can actually be explored with something called 'overclocking'.
For the Switch "Pro" (I hope its real name and concept speak successor) Nintendo will definitely replace it with a true generational leap. Nvidia hasn't released a gaming-orientated chipset since the Tegra X line (before Mariko, their last chipset was released, interestingly, before they announced their partnership with Nintendo) as both Xavier and Orin are focused on automotive. My guess is, they've been secretly working on the most powerful mobile chipset in cooperation with Nintendo, it could be even more powerful than Orin (which has the same amount of CPU cores as the Xbox One X!).
Without a massive leap in technology, it would be hard to call it a "Pro", wouldn't it?
Nintendo is extremely fortunate to have Nvidia at its side.
A magnesium alloy body: Yes, please...
Reduced bezel around the screen: To be honest, I would prefer noticeably bigger screen made for tabletop gaming, but who knows, maybe we will get both.
Wireless audio out of the box: Not familiar with it, but I guess it would be fundamental.
5G compatibility: It would be something deluxe, but it definitely has potential, so yes!
A non-portable, 'desktop' Switch: Really? Well, I don't think that would be viable for Nintendo unless, well the know what they are doing, if you want a high-end TV experience, well you can do anything with a new dock, can't you?
But I repeat, I expect Nintendo to promote it as a generational leap by calling it a 'successor' that will coexist with the current models, and of course it will include an unique concept only possible by it. But my main concern is the release date. I honestly don't know why they would release new hardware this year,. Early 2021 makes much more sense for many reasons, including the fact Nintendo can release it on March to celebrate Switch's fifth year on the market.
Alternatively, they could go on a new iterative approach similar to smartphones or the Xbox Series X, I guess we'll have to wait for everything. Here we go again...
PS. Do not underestimate the current Switch! Anyone who doesn't know its specs will call it a match for Xbox One by just seeing games like Link's Awakening or Smash Bros Ultimate.
PS2: PiranhaCapital?! He predicted Switch Lite back in April 2019!
I think they should just put 2 Tegra x1s in the switch pro. If they shrink them down alittle more it would use the same battery power as the regular switch now. And backwards compatibility would be a non issue. Double the power and same battery life. That and add Bluetooth and I’m good.
@Xansies the others now how to do “bigger and better”, and honestly, they’ve spent doing the sameness thing over two generations, it’s quite boring. Want the next CoD, or any other game that’s not coming out on Switch? Get a PC, even “exclusives” of the other consoles will come out on PC. If you’re really interested in Ray tracing, also better get a PC capable of giving you that decently, because you’re not going to get that with the other consoles. Nintendo is offering something the others never will, they don’t need to worry, and games look just fine. Nintendo only has to put a bigger cartridge size, the problem is storage. With 64gb of space, developers wouldn’t have to trim games that much.
it would be cool if the #switchpro had a #ds #2ds slot so you could play your ds games and your switch games . #nintendo would sell more game cartridges and fight back against #RetroNJr #Hyperkin .
@Edu23XWiiU Dude, this a weird thing. Why does everyone bring up COD? Literally dozens of great games were made last year that can't run on the switch. A lot from Sony, but there's other third party things like the resident evil remakes and whatever, pick your poison. The point is what more headroom for development means is that Nintendo can make better games. Period. That's all. It doesn't mean Nintendo games are currently bad, but with more capable hardware they can be better. That's not even an argument we should be having. It's kinda an undeniable fact that with a greater hardware comes a greater capacity for imagining things and then doing those things. Right now, there is a limit to what can he done, you like the games, imagine how the games would be without that limit. I don't get why people are against that. It has nothing to do with Nintendo becoming like the other ones, though obvious having more third-party ports isn't a bad thing, its that they can do things on a greater scale whole maintaining their brand. Obviously, you want that. There's no way you can he on games site without wanting that.
@Xansies because CoD is the only highlight on the other consoles, and it’s basically all that comes out, and we’re quite happy without it. RE 2 Remake could work on Switch as it is, but Capcom are too cheap to invest in a studia that can optimize the game for Switch in order to trim data. The main problem is storage. If the standard cartridge sizes would be 32 and 64 fab, we would get more third party games, but for what we’re getting, it’s already pretty good. And Nintendo games from tbe technical side are very impressive, to have those kind of games on a console like the Switch Ian very astonishing.
@Edu23XWiiU Dude, that's just not true. Optimization is a myth. If you have a n64 there is nothing to can do to get a 2019 game to run on it. That's where the switch is. It's on par with a ps3 outputwise. There are limits to what scales. And even if that's how it works, why would anyone try? This is the ridiculous thing about this argument, there isn't a reason for there not to be a more powerful switch. The only argument I hear is that it's good enough now, the problem with that is that it isn't by the merit that there are literally better hardware solutions than what the switch has available right now. Why don't you want anything better? It doesn't cost you any effort, just one day it exists and you buy it. It's weird to not want progress. The switch has obvious limits, it's be great for those limits to be gone. And it's, again, not a weird mythic thing, it could happen this year easily because the shit that could make it happen exists. It's not a hypothetical, there will be a better portable gaming hybrid thing because there simply can be. And I'm gonna get that thing
@Xansies @Xansies Oh, you’re gonna get that Alienware thing then, that’s like the Switch then, only slightly better, and I don’t hear that thing has 4K resolution either. That’s still too expensive to do, and the other competitors barely do that. Nintendo will do 4K when it’s cheaper and everyone has 4K TVs. Which one do you think sells most, the PS4 or the PS4 Pro? And optimization exists, because in order to make something more functional, you have to make it smaller, and that is also true with programming and game development. You have to make files smaller in order to get better results, and games are done now with a PC mind set, were everything is scalable, and that is done with just the press of a button. Nintendo will do just fine, and they’re already offering incredible things with the Switch, a home console on the go. Something it’s competitors will never do.
@Edu23XWiiU No, I'm not getting that thing because I have a PC. The switch is good because of the games, I never really claimed otherwise. Personally, I don't care about 4k. My issue is that the quality of games is basically for now capped at around somewhere in between a PS4 and PS4 pro. Not only resolution, but in how big and dense game worlds can be. The issue is botw was a good game, but it was for the most part empty because there had to be a compromise between rendering the game world and rendering the gameworld plus enemies and npc. It's the reason there couldn't be any major towns larger than a few houses. Hell, certainly the reason the game is sort of post apocalyptic is because of hardware limitation as much as anything else.
There's also just basic quality of life things. The Witcher 3 runs on the switch somehow, but not well and definitely below HD. This isn't a argument of me saying I need 4k, when it comes to resolution, I'm arguing for at 720p would be nice, but the tech exist to boost things like Doom and Witcher to 1080p or 900 at 60 fps. And we know that because of the Alienware thing and just other mobile hardware solutions.
Like, 4k is really an extra it's not something I care about at all, but having the game have 5 feet draw distances and resolution scaling is incredibly distracting. My whole issue with this argument against a better switch is that there's no reason not to want this. It's just better and it exist to be made. It's not science fiction or anything weird and it's going to be made, Nintendo is going to make this thing. It may not be this year (though i think it will be) but there will be a better version of this thing. Are you just not going to get tat, the inevitable Switch 2?
@Dijita
I think the RAM is the main thing holding the Switch back from a technical standpoint.
The SOC is fine for what Nintendo was trying to do. Would I prefer something more powerful? Yes of course but they had to balance cooling, efficiency, and power in ways that Microsoft and Sony don’t have to worry about as much. As it stands, the Tegra X1 is fine.
But the RAM needs an upgrade. I think that’s the bottleneck for why we don’t see more PS4/X1 ports and also why the load times can be bad on certain games. LPDDR4 is SLOW as molasses these days and 4GB isn’t enough. They should have shipped it with 8GB and ate the costs. Memory prices are fickle, but in general they go down over time. 8GB would have done wonders for the system.
@sixrings If there ever was going to be a console version, it's probably going to come near the end of the Switch's life time at around $120-150 (or even less!) to soak up any on-the-fence sales to keep the momentum going. With Nintendo's current vision to have a Switch for every family member in the house, it just doesn't align. They might though, they did make a Switch Lite that doesn't actually, well, switch.
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