Nintendo Switch 2: VRR Exclusive to Handheld Mode

Back in early April, fans of the Nintendo Switch 2 were buzzing with excitement after spotting mentions of variable refresh rate (VRR) on the system's informational pages. However, these references mysteriously vanished soon after. Now, Nintendo has stepped in to clarify the situation surrounding VRR on the Nintendo Switch 2.

In a statement provided to NintendoLife, Nintendo addressed the confusion, stating, "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 questioned about potential future support for VRR in docked mode, the company responded, "We have nothing to announce on this topic."

This means that while the Nintendo Switch 2 will indeed offer VRR functionality when used in handheld mode, users connecting their console to a TV won't benefit from this feature at launch. This clarification comes after much speculation, as the initial VRR mention was quickly retracted and gradually removed from various sites, a process meticulously documented by Digital Foundry contributor Oliver Mackenzie.

While the lack of VRR in docked mode at launch may disappoint some fans, it's worth noting that hope is not lost. Sony, for instance, introduced VRR support to the PS5 via a post-launch update, suggesting that Nintendo might follow a similar path in the future.

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