I remember when Pokémon Scarlet & Violet hit the scene on Nintendo Switch, and honestly, it was a bit of a mess. Like, for real. Other games have had their issues, but this one—man, it was like watching a masterpiece get tangled in its own shoelaces.
I’d called it a “super-effective new vision” for Pokémon, with all the excitement that an idea like that brings. Except, it was like peering through a foggy window with those whacky stop-motion windmills. And why did distant cliffs look like they’d just escaped from a Nintendo 64 museum? This game’s dynamism deserved a much better stage, no doubt about it.
Fast forward three years to now, and get this—a Switch 2 update is rolling out. I got a sneak peek, thanks to an invite from The Pokémon Company. Felt pretty special, especially since I’d been quite vocal with my complaints earlier on.
First impression? Just wow. I mean, it’s like comparing midnight to noon here! People who claim frame rates don’t matter should really try the original version and then jump to the Switch 2. Trust me, it’s like trying to enjoy a concert while wearing earmuffs.
So, yeah, the Switch 2. Who knew a console upgrade could make such a difference? We’re talking about smooth 60fps, which, compared to the original’s rollercoaster vibes, is like a breath of fresh air. Those distant Pokémon and landscape bits? No more slideshow nightmares. And the windmills? Smooth as butter now.
But here’s the thing—it’s not just about showing off technical upgrades. This change really alters the game’s soul, you know? Scarlet & Violet’s sprawling, adventurous world now feels like it can stretch its legs without tripping. Before, if the frame rate dipped, it was like pulling you out of the world, jarring as you were just getting into it.
There are some nifty gameplay enhancements, too. Wild Pokémon popping up in larger crowds, that tiny lag when you’d spot them? Gone. Menus feel less like wading through molasses, and the Pokémon Box sprites? Instant animation—finally!
All these tweaks might seem minor, but together, they just make the game fuller. Battles don’t drag anymore, especially those more elaborate moves. Yeah, those could really tank your frame rate before.
Not everything’s perfect, though. If you’re riding happily at 60fps, those flowers and little details still tend to appear out of nowhere, which can be a bit jarring. The art style—well, now that the game runs smoothly, you kinda notice how it could use a little polish. HDR helps make Paldea pop, though, I’ll give it that.
In the end, this version? It’s the Scarlet & Violet we all imagined. Probably the slickest looking Pokémon game out there currently. Playing it at 60fps sort of feels like sneaking dessert before dinner, if that makes sense. And now? I’m even more psyched for the upcoming Pokémon Legends Z-A. Yeah, bring it on.
