Nintendo Switch 2: VRR Exclusive to Handheld Mode

Back in early April, fans of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 noticed references to variable refresh rate (VRR) on the system's informational pages, which mysteriously vanished shortly after. Nintendo has now clarified the situation around VRR functionality on the Switch 2.

In a statement provided to NintendoLife, Nintendo confirmed that the initial information about VRR was incorrect. "Nintendo Switch 2 supports VRR in handheld mode only," the company stated. "The incorrect information was initially published on the Nintendo Switch 2 website, and we apologize for the error." When asked about potential VRR support in docked mode via a future firmware update, Nintendo responded with, "We have nothing to announce on this topic."

This means that, at launch, VRR will be exclusive to the handheld mode of the Switch 2, leaving those who play on their TV without this feature. The confusion arose after the initial mention of VRR was spotted and then quickly removed, with mentions disappearing gradually from various sites, as documented by Digital Foundry contributor Oliver Mackenzie.

While the lack of VRR in docked mode at launch might disappoint some, it's not necessarily the end of the road. Sony introduced VRR support to PS5 consoles post-launch through a firmware update, suggesting a similar possibility for the Switch 2 in the future.

In other news related to the Switch 2, Nintendo has announced a list of games that will receive free performance upgrades on the new console, including titles like Pokémon Scarlet & Violet and Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury. Additionally, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser has assured fans that the company will have sufficient Switch 2 units available to meet demand "through the holidays."