Nintendo Switch 2 to Feature VRR Only in 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 soon after. Now, Nintendo has stepped forward to clarify the situation surrounding VRR on the Nintendo Switch 2.

In a statement released 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 the possibility of VRR support for docked mode in a future firmware update, Nintendo responded with a firm "nothing to announce on this topic."

This means that while the Nintendo Switch 2 will offer VRR as an option when used in handheld mode, those connecting their console to a TV won't benefit from this feature at launch. The clarification follows a period of speculation and confusion, as the initial VRR mention was spotted and then quickly removed. Digital Foundry contributor Oliver Mackenzie documented the gradual disappearance of these mentions across various sites.

Although this news might be a letdown for those expecting VRR in TV mode right out of the gate, it's worth noting that hope isn't entirely lost. Sony, for instance, rolled out VRR support for the PS5 via a post-launch update, suggesting that Nintendo could potentially follow suit in the future.

In other Nintendo Switch 2 news, the company has recently announced a lineup of games set to receive free performance upgrades on the new console. Titles such as Pokémon Scarlet & Violet and Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury are among those getting enhanced. Additionally, Nintendo of America's president, Doug Bowser, has assured fans that the company will have ample Switch 2 units available to meet demand "through the holidays."