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 soon after. Now, Nintendo has stepped forward to clarify the situation regarding VRR on the Nintendo Switch 2.
In a statement provided to NintendoLife, Nintendo confirmed that the initial information about VRR was incorrect. They stated, "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, Nintendo responded with, "We have nothing to announce on this topic."
This means that while the Switch 2 will offer VRR as an option in handheld mode, those planning to use the console docked to a TV will not have access to this feature at launch. The clarification comes after much confusion, as the original VRR mention was spotted and then quickly removed. Digital Foundry contributor Oliver Mackenzie documented the gradual disappearance of these mentions from various sites.
While this news might be disappointing for those eager to see VRR on the Switch 2's TV settings right out of the gate, it's not necessarily the end of the road. Sony, for example, introduced VRR support to the PS5 via a post-launch update, suggesting that Nintendo might follow suit in the future.
In other Nintendo Switch 2 developments, the company has released a list of games that will receive free performance upgrades on the new console, including 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 sufficient Switch 2 units available to meet demand throughout the holiday season.