Highlights
The next Nintendo console, possibly called the Switch 2, may the specs necessary to run Final Fantasy 7 Remake "like a PS5 game."
Official information regarding the new console is limited, however, leaks indicate that it will follow the Switch's hybrid concept and incorporate enhanced hardware.
Should the leaks prove to be true, the Switch 2 would potentially be in a position to directly rival the consoles of Sony and Microsoft, potentially creating opportunities for the adaptation of current-generation games.
A recent leak suggests that the upcoming Nintendo console, possibly called the Switch 2, may rival the power of the PlayStation 5 and potentially feature Final Fantasy 7 Remake as a launch title. Although Nintendo continues to release new games for the current Switch, the anticipation for the next console, whether it be the Switch 2 or something else, is growing. It is expected that Nintendo will unveil this new console sometime in 2024, although official information is currently limited.
Currently, the only confirmed detail regarding the next Nintendo console is that Nintendo Accounts will be transferable from the current Switch to the new system. Beyond this, little else is known about the new console, leaving fans to rely on leaks and rumors for information. According to these leaks, the next Nintendo console will follow the hybrid concept of the Switch, functioning as both a home console and a handheld device, but with more advanced hardware.
According to a reliable leak from I'm a Hero Too, known for accurately revealing video game industry news in the past, the upcoming Nintendo console is expected to possess comparable power to that of a PS5. This means that it will likely boast specifications strong enough to enable the running of Final Fantasy 7 Remake in a manner resembling that of a PS5 game in terms of both visuals and performance. Intriguingly, it has been disclosed that Square Enix has already successfully ported Final Fantasy 7 Remake to the Switch 2 development kit, accomplishing this task effortlessly. It is important to note that the game was initially launched on the PS4, raising the possibility that the Switch 2 specifications may fall somewhere in the middle between the PS4 and PS5. However, please be aware that this is merely speculative at present. Further, there is potential for Final Fantasy 7 Remake to serve as a debut title for the next Nintendo console. Yet, the source of the leak has admitted uncertainty regarding the actual occurrence of such an event.
Please take these claims about leaks with a grain of salt, as is the case with all leaks. However, if the information is accurate, it could have significant implications for the Switch 2 console. The suggestion that it will be capable of running Final Fantasy 7 Remake at a level on par with the PS5 indicates a significant increase in power compared to the original Switch. This could potentially open up opportunities for the Switch 2 to receive numerous ports of current-generation games and compete directly against the newest consoles from Sony and Microsoft.
It is hoped that this increase in power will also address the game performance issues that the original Switch has faced towards the end of its lifespan. The technical problems experienced by Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are well known, and although Tears of the Kingdom received widespread praise, it still has occasional performance issues that perhaps could have been avoided with more advanced hardware.
The Switch console's remarkable power could potentially guarantee its longevity and support for years to come. With over six years of existence, by the time the next Nintendo console is released, the Switch would likely be over seven years old. Nintendo may be planning for their next console to have a comparable lifespan, which would be more feasible if the new device showcases a substantial increase in power. Only time will reveal the accuracy of this information, but fans can expect a clearer understanding next year.