Metroid Prime 4 Compared on Two Consoles — Minimal Difference

Nintendo originally planned the game solely for the first Switch, but development complications expanded the project to span two console generations. Despite the original Switch being eight years old, the game runs reliably.

On the Switch 2 there are two selectable modes: a “quality” 60 FPS mode and a “performance” 120 FPS mode. The original Switch maintains a steady 60 FPS. The primary differences are in resolution: the Switch 2 outputs 1440p (upscaled to 4K in quality mode) and 1080p in performance mode, with improved textures, shadows, and detail. The first Switch runs at 900p when docked and about 540p in handheld, yet the visual presentation remains strong.

Both versions are close in overall quality: most of the development targeted the original Switch and was later adapted for the enhanced Switch 2. Performance holds firm at either 60 or 120 frames per second. The Switch 2 also wins on loading times — the newer console loads roughly five times faster.

Retro Studios delivered high technical polish: the Switch 2 stands out with richer effects and smoother frame pacing, while the original Switch demonstrates that the platform still handles the game admirably.

Source: iXBT.games