Digital Foundry has released their comprehensive technical analysis of the recently launched Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, presenting a somewhat paradoxical outcome. While the game achieves a smooth 60 frames per second performance on the Switch 2, maintaining this target consistently in both portable and docked configurations, it simultaneously exhibits noticeable visual compromises when juxtaposed with its counterparts on other platforms. This review delves into the specifics of these trade-offs, highlighting both the successes and shortcomings of this latest port.
On the brighter side, the Switch 2 iteration of the game largely succeeds in its performance goals. Thomas Morgan of Digital Foundry noted exceptional frame rate stability, reporting virtually no discernible drops during gameplay, whether in handheld or docked modes. This commitment to a fluid 60 frames per second is a significant advantage for players who prioritize smooth gameplay. Furthermore, the Definitive Edition for Switch and Switch 2 incorporates several enhancements seen in prior re-releases, such as improved texture detail, more refined foliage placement, and enhanced color grading. The game also renders at a sharp 1920x1080p resolution when docked, mirroring a similar 1080p output in handheld mode, contributing to a generally crisp visual presentation.
However, the journey to achieve this performance level on the Switch comes with a series of visual concessions. The Switch version sees a considerable reduction in shadow density, and the thickness of environmental foliage is noticeably diminished. Crucially, the advanced TRESSFX hair technology for Lara Croft, a signature feature of the Definitive Edition on other consoles, is absent here. Moreover, many in-game cinematics have been simplified, detracting from the overall cinematic experience. These visual sacrifices place the Switch version behind the PS4's Definitive Edition.
Intriguingly, in certain graphical aspects, the Switch 2 version even appears to be a regression from the original PS3 release. Features like screen-splatter rain effects are missing, geometry complexity is reduced, and even shadow coverage is a step down from the prior generation. While some of these cutbacks were also present in the PS4 re-release, Digital Foundry emphasizes that these compromises are particularly disappointing given the substantial generational gap between the systems, implying that more could have been achieved with the Switch 2's hardware capabilities. For owners of the original Switch, the game operates at 30 frames per second, occasionally dipping into the 20s during intense cinematic sequences. It achieves a respectable resolution between 864p and 900p, with many visual elements shared between both Switch models. Although the original Switch experiences a further decline in shadow quality, Digital Foundry concludes that it “holds up much better than you might expect.”
In summary, while Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition on Switch 2 delivers a commendable 60 frames per second, this performance comes at the cost of significant visual fidelity. The game benefits from certain graphical upgrades but simultaneously suffers from notable downgrades, making it a mixed offering for fans of the franchise on Nintendo's latest hardware.
