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In some respects the graphical power of the Nintendo Switch, though still mysterious in terms of detail, isn't too difficult to figure out. Developers sticking to non-disclosure agreements generally avoid specifics, but due to the portable nature of the system it's unlikely to be bleeding edge technology; Nintendo has focused on concept over raw graphical power for multiple generations.

Venturebeat is the latest to pitch in, though it's worth noting that it's reinforcing previous reports from earlier in the year that we understand to have some solid sources. Citing its own sources, Venturebeat sub-site Gamesbeat states it believes the system won't quite match the original PS4's capabilities; it speculates that "performance may be close" to Xbox One. In the Summer talk was of a system that was potentially a little below the core specifications of PS4, so this assertion isn't entirely new.

It links this to the underlying technology driving the custom Nvidia Tegra chip, stating that it's the older 'Maxwell' architecture and not the newer 'Pascal' equivalent. Pricing and the practicalities of manufacturing - with Pascal coming a little late for the Switch release schedule - are cited as potential issues.

As stated above this is similar to reports from earlier in the year, such as rumours that early demonstration and development kits were working off an overclocked Tegra X1 chip; it's always seemed likely that the Switch would focus on affordable and economical chipsets. Nintendo isn't going to succeed in the current arms race that's currently engrossing Sony and Microsoft, in any case.

It's worth reading the Venturebeat article if you're intrigued, as it also summarises and repeats a lot of reports from recent months. In terms of the great power debate, it's worth noting that it's all more complicated than online debates often consider. Architecture and development tools can be as important as the raw graphical grunt, while Nintendo has a track record of focusing on concepts and innovation to sell its systems. In cases like DS, 3DS and Wii that strategy has worked well; with Wii U, it didn't pay off.

In any case, let us know what you think of this topic in the comments.

[source venturebeat.com]