Nintendo Confirms Switch 2 VRR Exclusive to Handheld Mode

Back in early April, enthusiasts of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 were buzzing with excitement after noticing mentions of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) on the system's informational pages. However, these mentions were quickly removed, leading to a flurry of speculation. Now, Nintendo has provided clarity on the situation.

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

This means that, at launch, players using the Nintendo Switch 2 in docked mode on their TVs will not have access to VRR. The clarification follows weeks of confusion after the original mention of VRR was spotted and subsequently removed. Digital Foundry contributor Oliver Mackenzie documented the gradual disappearance of these mentions from various websites.

While this news might be disappointing for those hoping for VRR support in TV mode from the get-go, there's still hope for the future. Sony introduced VRR support to PS5 consoles via a post-launch update, suggesting a similar possibility for the Nintendo Switch 2.

In other Nintendo Switch 2 news, the company has released a list of games that will receive free performance upgrades on the new console. Titles such as Pokémon Scarlet & Violet and Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury are among those getting enhanced. Additionally, Nintendo of America's president, Doug Bowser, has assured that there will be enough Nintendo Switch 2 units to meet demand "through the holidays."