Technical Enhancements Transform Pokémon Scarlet & Violet on Nintendo Switch 2

I just can’t stop thinking about this game. Pokemon Scarlet & Violet. You know, the original one on the Switch? Man, it kinda felt like stumbling through a dream, where everything’s a bit… wobbly and slow. I remember, the first time I played it, my brain went, “This game is awesome!” and then, “Wait, what’s up with this choppy motion? Did someone swap my Switch for a retro Nintendo 64?”

When I wrote my review back in 2022, I couldn’t help but go on about its bright, fresh take on the series. But seriously, those stop-motion windmills! They’re burned into my memory like a glitchy GIF. It’s like Scarlet & Violet’s heart wanted to dance, but its feet just kept tripping over themselves.

Fast forward three years. Here we are, on the brink of… well, something exciting. The Switch 2 version is coming, and I’m pumped. The Pokemon Company even let me sneak a peek (kind of mind-blowing, because I was pretty vocal about its earlier issues, but hey, who can stay mad when things get interesting?).

And let me tell you, the difference is wild. Like day and night. Maybe you’re one of those folks who goes, “Frame rate’s no big deal.” If that’s you, try playing this on the new console, and then go back. It’s almost daring you to. Serious challenge issued here!

Oh, check out Joe from Serebii’s video if you need more proof. It’s like magic but with pixels. And the visuals? They’re smoother than a squirrel on a waterslide. Those Pokemon and landscapes that once stuttered are now groovin’ at a steady 60fps. It’s like turning a slideshow into a movie.

Does improved performance really matter that much? You bet! Scarlet & Violet was always meant to be big, open, like Skyrim meets Breath of the Wild, but for Pokemon. And let’s be real, dragging frame rates were like chains on a sprinter. But now? Cut those chains, and watch the game soar.

And here’s the kicker: this performance boost doesn’t just fluff up the visuals. Nope, it transforms gameplay. Wild Pokemon dance across fields, and there’s no awkward pause when you find one. It’s like snapping your fingers and things just happen. Even the menus got a facelift—instant and responsive. And battles? No more falling asleep waiting for animations to catch up. Everything’s quicker, snappier. Boom!

It’s not all flowers and sunshine, though. Details sometimes pop in oddly as you zip through the world. Kind of like running past everything at high speed and realizing your glasses need a clean. And the art style? Maybe needs a slight touch-up here and there. HDR does its trick with colors, though. Paldea has never looked this alive.

So, where does this leave us? Well, this is the Scarlet & Violet we were waiting for. It might just be the best Pokemon’s ever looked—or run—till now in 3D. And, honestly, this feels borderline illegal. Like, can you even have this much fun? It’s wild. With this boost in the series, I’m super psyched for the new Pokemon Legends Z-A. It’s like seeing the sun poke out after a long cloud cover.

Anyway, wait—did I mention the—oh, never mind. Just get ready for some epic gameplay.