Nintendo Confirms Switch 2 VRR Exclusive to Handheld Mode

Back in early April, fans of the Nintendo Switch 2 were buzzing about the mention of variable refresh rate (VRR) on the system's informational pages, which mysteriously vanished shortly after. Now, Nintendo has stepped in to clarify the situation around VRR on the Nintendo Switch 2.

In a statement provided to NintendoLife, Nintendo addressed the initial confusion: "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 a future firmware update, the company stated, "We have nothing to announce on this topic."

This means that at launch, the Nintendo Switch 2 will offer VRR functionality exclusively in handheld mode, leaving those who play on their TVs without this feature for now. This clarification comes after much speculation, as the initial VRR mention was quickly spotted and then removed. Digital Foundry contributor Oliver Mackenzie documented the gradual disappearance of these mentions across various sites.

While this news may disappoint some who were eager for VRR support in docked mode right from the start, there's still a glimmer of hope. Sony previously introduced VRR support to the PS5 via a post-launch update, suggesting that Nintendo might follow a similar path for the Switch 2 in the future.

In other Nintendo Switch 2 developments, the company recently announced a lineup of games that will receive free performance upgrades on the new console. 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 that there will be sufficient Switch 2 units available to meet demand "through the holidays."