Nvidia’s Machine Learning Upscaler Powers Cyberpunk 2077 on Nintendo Switch 2
The wait for the Nintendo Switch 2 is almost over, and with it, the promise of more powerful graphics and improved performance. One of the most anticipated titles lined up for the console’s launch is CD Projekt RED’s Cyberpunk 2077, and Digital Foundry has had the chance to go hands-on with the game at the recent London event. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of how Nvidia’s machine learning upscaler, DLSS, is being used in the game, and what it means for the future of gaming on the Switch 2.
DLSS: The Magic Bullet for Switch 2 Graphics
For those who may not be familiar, DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) is a machine learning-based upscaling technology developed by Nvidia. It uses a neural network to reconstruct images, taking into account information from prior frames, motion vectors, and other data. This allows for more efficient rendering and improved image quality, making it an attractive solution for developers looking to push visual boundaries on lower-end hardware.
In the case of Cyberpunk 2077 on the Switch 2, CD Projekt RED has confirmed that the game is using a version of DLSS available for the console’s hardware, powered by Nvidia’s Tensor cores. This means that the game will utilize DLSS in all four modes: handheld, docked, and the performance and quality variations of each.
Quality and Performance Modes
The game will offer different graphics modes, with a quality and performance toggle for handheld and docked versions. When connected to a TV, players will have the choice of a 30fps quality mode and a 40fps performance mode. The latter would presumably operate only with the TV in 120Hz mode, delivering a new frame for every three display refreshes.
In terms of input resolutions, the game will scale from 2x and up per axis, depending on GPU load. This means that the DLSS upscaler will be fed with anything from 540p to 1080p in the 30fps quality modes and the docked 40fps performance mode. For the handheld iteration of the performance mode, the 2x and up scaling would suggest DRS (Dynamic Resolution Scaling) between 360p and 720p, depending on GPU load.
Comparison to PC
It’s worth noting that the utilization of DLSS in Cyberpunk 2077 on the Switch 2 is slightly different from its use on PC. Typically, post-processing elements are rendered at the same output resolution on PC. However, in the Switch 2 version, it’s possible that these elements are still rendered at the input resolution, which may explain why we’re able to see obvious stair-stepping edges that make pixel-counting possible.
Conclusion
The use of DLSS in Cyberpunk 2077 on the Switch 2 is a significant development, and it will be interesting to see how it performs in the final version of the game. With the promise of improved image quality and more efficient rendering, DLSS has the potential to revolutionize the way we experience games on lower-end hardware.
For developers, the availability of DLSS on the Switch 2 means that they can focus on creating more visually stunning games without worrying about the limitations of the console’s hardware. And for gamers, it means that they can expect more immersive and engaging experiences on the go.
Actionable Insights
- Keep an eye out for the final version of Cyberpunk 2077 on the Switch 2, as it will be a benchmark game for the console’s graphics capabilities.
- Expect to see more games utilizing DLSS in the future, as it becomes a standard feature on the Switch 2.
- If you’re a developer, consider using DLSS to improve the performance and image quality of your games on the Switch 2.
Summary
Nvidia’s machine learning upscaler, DLSS, is set to revolutionize the way we experience games on the Nintendo Switch 2. With its use in Cyberpunk 2077, CD Projekt RED has confirmed that the technology will be available in all four modes, offering improved image quality and more efficient rendering. As the Switch 2 prepares to launch, it’s clear that DLSS will play a significant role in shaping the future of gaming on the console.