Fallout 4 Successfully Launches on Nintendo Switch 2
The library of third-party games for the Nintendo Switch 2 is gradually expanding, and Bethesda is actively promoting its major projects on the hybrid console. Following the release of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim last December, Fallout 4 has now arrived on the platform. To the surprise of many, the port has turned out to be surprisingly successful and even surpasses the quality of the Skyrim version in both docked and handheld modes.
The key advantage of Fallout 4 on Switch 2 is the availability of three graphical modes from the start, whereas Skyrim only offered two. In the game, they are labeled as frame rate targets.
- "Quality" Mode (30 FPS) provides the best image clarity and the highest graphics settings, including improved texture resolution and filtering. However, due to the low frame rate, controls feel less responsive, and camera movement seems sluggish.
- "Balanced" Mode (40 FPS) offers a slightly softer image, but it remains sharp even in handheld mode. The extra 10 frames per second noticeably improve the gameplay feel, and thanks to the Switch 2's 120 Hz screen support and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) technology, this mode delivers an experience close to 60 FPS. Notably, TVs with 120 Hz support can also use this mode.
- "Performance" Mode (60 FPS) shows good results in interiors and less crowded locations, but the console struggles to hit the target in open spaces and during battles with many enemies. In handheld mode, VRR technology helps smooth out instability, but the image becomes blurry, especially in the distance—even newcomers to the game notice this issue. At the same time, it's noticeable that when choosing 60 FPS, the graphics settings are not reduced as drastically as in the Skyrim version.
In docked mode, the game targets 1440p resolution at 30 FPS, 1080p at 40 FPS with nearly identical graphics settings, and dynamic 1080p (often below the target resolution) at 60 FPS with reduced graphics settings. In handheld mode, the target resolution is 1080p across all modes, but in "Performance" mode, the image can become noticeably blurry.
The port is also impressive in terms of stability: so far, not a single crash has been recorded, which favorably distinguishes it from recent re-releases of the game on other platforms. Loading times are practically identical to the latest versions of Fallout 4 for consoles.