Nintendo Switch 2: VRR Exclusive to Handheld Mode

Back in early April, fans of the Nintendo Switch 2 were buzzing with excitement over mentions of variable refresh rate (VRR) on the system's informational pages, which quickly vanished. Now, Nintendo has provided some clarity on how and where VRR will function on the Nintendo Switch 2.

In a statement given to NintendoLife, Nintendo explained that the initial information about VRR was incorrect. "Nintendo Switch 2 supports VRR in handheld mode only," the company clarified. "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 while the Nintendo Switch 2 will offer VRR as an option when used in handheld mode, those playing on a TV won't benefit from this feature at launch. The clarification comes after much confusion, as the original VRR mention was spotted and then rapidly removed. Digital Foundry contributor Oliver Mackenzie documented the gradual disappearance of these mentions across various websites.

While this news might disappoint some who were hoping for VRR support in TV mode from the get-go, there's still a glimmer of hope. Sony, for example, rolled out VRR support to PS5 consoles after their launch, suggesting that Nintendo might do something similar in the future.

In other Nintendo Switch 2 updates, the company has just released a list of games set to receive free performance upgrades on the Switch 2. This list includes titles like Pokémon Scarlet & Violet and Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury. Additionally, Nintendo of America's president, Doug Bowser, has assured fans that there will be enough Switch 2 units to meet demand "through the holidays."