Will the Nintendo Switch 2 Embrace Cloud Gaming? An Analysis

Will the Nintendo Switch 2 Embrace Cloud Gaming? An Analysis

The gaming world is buzzing. Nintendo finally lifted the curtain, albeit partially, on the Nintendo Switch 2, confirming a 2025 release window. While the reveal video focused primarily on the console’s hardware, it left many crucial details under wraps. The original Nintendo Switch, a massive commercial success, dabbled with cloud gaming for select titles, but its successor’s stance remains a mystery. So, will the Nintendo Switch 2 embrace cloud gaming?

Nintendo Switch 2: Bigger, Better, and Backwards Compatible

The Switch 2, at first glance, retains the hybrid DNA of its predecessor, but with some notable changes. The console itself appears larger, and the video showcased new black Joy-Con controllers with colored accents. These Joy-Cons ditch the original’s sliding mechanism for a seemingly magnetic attachment system, complete with a satisfying “snap” sound. A new button is located below the home button on the right Joy-Con. The SL and SR buttons are also bigger. Also the Joy-Cons are larger than the previous iteration.

The reveal confirmed full backwards compatibility with both physical and digital Nintendo Switch games, although Nintendo cautions that “certain” titles may not be fully supported. A welcome addition is a redesigned U-shaped kickstand and a more rounded dock. The top of the console features a new USB-C port alongside the 3.5mm headphone jack. There will be a separate controller grip that you can snap the Joy-Cons into.

A brief glimpse of what appears to be a new Mario Kart title suggests that Nintendo’s focus on first-party exclusives remains strong.

Nintendo Switch 2 – First-look trailer

What We Didn’t See: Specs, Cloud Gaming, and the DLSS Rumor

Despite the excitement, the reveal was conspicuously silent on critical details. We still don’t know the Switch 2’s processor, RAM, storage capacity, or screen resolution. These specs are vital to understanding the console’s native gaming capabilities.

Furthermore, cloud gaming was not mentioned at all. This is particularly interesting given the original Switch’s limited experiments with cloud versions of games like Control and Hitman 3.

Adding fuel to the speculation fire is the persistent rumor that the Switch 2 might utilize Nvidia’s DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) technology. DLSS is an AI-powered upscaling technique that can significantly boost performance and improve image quality. Given that the original Switch used an Nvidia Tegra chip, a continued partnership seems likely. The use of DLSS would indicate an ongoing relationship and could open up new possibilities for both native and cloud-based gaming.

Speculation and Potential Implications for Cloud Gaming on the Switch 2

The lack of concrete information has led to much speculation about the Switch 2’s relationship with cloud gaming. Here are a few potential scenarios:

  • Scenario 1: A More Powerful Switch 2, Enhanced by DLSS, Reduces the Need for Cloud in the Short Term: If the Switch 2 boasts significantly improved specs, especially when combined with DLSS, it could run most modern games natively at acceptable quality levels. DLSS could enable higher resolutions and frame rates than the raw hardware would otherwise allow. This scenario might reduce the need for cloud gaming on the platform, at least in the short term. We believe this is the most likely scenario as the Switch 2 establishes itself.
  • Scenario 2: The Switch 2 Embraces Cloud Gaming Further Down the Line, Following the Steam Deck Model: While the Switch 2 will likely focus on native gaming initially, cloud gaming could still become a valuable option later in its lifecycle. The Steam Deck has shown that GeForce NOW can be a great complement to handheld hardware, especially for demanding titles. If the Switch 2’s specs are in the ballpark of the Steam Deck, we might see a similar dynamic, where cloud gaming becomes a way to expand the system’s library and play games that wouldn’t otherwise be possible. It is more likely that general internet infrastructure improvements will make this possible over time.
  • Scenario 3: Nintendo’s Own Cloud Service (Unlikely): While a long shot, we can’t entirely dismiss the possibility of Nintendo developing its own cloud gaming service, perhaps integrated with Nintendo Switch Online. However, given their history, this seems the least likely scenario.

The Bigger Picture: Switch 2’s Impact on a Changing Gaming Landscape

The Nintendo Switch 2 has the potential to significantly impact the gaming landscape, particularly with interesting developments happening elsewhere. With rumors swirling about Xbox’s struggles in the console market, a powerful and appealing Switch 2 could attract gamers looking for a new platform. The significant increase in horsepower opens the door for many titles that previously skipped the original Switch due to hardware limitations. Games that once targeted PS4 and Xbox One might now find a comfortable home on the Switch 2, potentially drawing in players from the Xbox ecosystem. This, combined with Nintendo’s beloved first-party franchises, could make the Switch 2 an even more formidable player in the console wars.

Conclusion

The Nintendo Switch 2 reveal has generated more questions than answers, particularly regarding cloud gaming. It is our opinion that cloud gaming will not be a significant factor for the Nintendo Switch 2, at least in the short term. We’ll have to wait for the Nintendo Direct on April 2nd, 2025, for more concrete details, including a hands on event later that month. Until then, the speculation will undoubtedly continue. What do you think the Switch 2 means for the future of cloud gaming? Share your thoughts in the comments below!