The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim Nintendo Switch 2 tech analysis, including frame rate and resolution

Bethesda surprised everyone last week with the shadowdrop of The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim on Nintendo Switch 2, and now Digital Foundry is here to explore the game’s technical side further, including the frame rate and resolution.

Overall, there’s a lot to like. However, serious drawbacks impact the experience, with latency currently acting as the biggest problem.

Here’s the full roundup of tidbits:

– Latency is currently a serious issue
– Adds 90 milliseconds of latency compared to the Switch 1 version
– Bethesda is currently looking into the issue
– Game is 30 frames per second
– Hits this target and has even frame pacing
– However, no 60 FPS support
– Skyrim runs at 4K when docked via DLSS with 1440p as the base
– Grass density and draw distances cranked up on Switch 2 compared to Switch 1
– Shadow resolution increased from characters and terrain
– Ambient occlusion added under extra foliage
– Some textures improved, but many environmental assets are identical to Switch 1
– Added depth of field, motion blur, and volumetric lighting plus screen space reflections across water bodies
– Reflections and an odd blue hue to trees found as bugs in the Switch 2 version
– All visual settings in tact for handheld mode
– Game renders natively at 1080p in handheld mode
– Switch 2 visuals are similar to PS5, but at a reduced frame rate and latency
– Loading significantly better on Switch 2 than Switch 1

Check out the full video below for further details on The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim’s Nintendo Switch 2 frame rate, resolution, and more.

Tech Analysis

The game is currently available via the Nintendo eShop. You can access more Nintendo Switch 2 news here.