Switch 2 handles Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade with minor compromises

Nintendo’s Switch 2 has shown impressive capabilities with high-profile titles, and its handling of Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is no exception. While the game was originally designed for PlayStation 5, the Switch 2 version delivers a mostly stable experience in both docked and handheld modes. Players can expect a consistent 30 frames per second, although there is no option to adjust graphics settings, unlike on PlayStation 5 and PC. The lack of performance or fidelity modes is a minor limitation, but the game’s smooth running makes it largely forgivable.

There are occasional frame drops, particularly in handheld mode. One noticeable instance occurs early in the game, as Cloud rejoins the Avalanche team on the train after the Mako Reactor incident. As the characters open the carriage door and Cloud attempts a stylish entry, the frame rate dips briefly, disrupting the visual flow. These stutters do not affect combat or exploration, and they are absent in docked mode, which makes them less intrusive overall.

Visual fidelity and texture issues

The most consistent visual issue is the rendering of certain textures at lower resolutions, especially in handheld mode. The problem is particularly noticeable with Cloud’s hair, which appears blurred and indistinct when the console is undocked. In docked mode, the textures are rendered correctly, preserving the character’s intended appearance. Other minor instances of low-resolution assets include the edge of Cloud’s Buster Sword, but these are less distracting than the hair rendering.

Intermission, the game’s additional content featuring Yuffie, also experiences occasional frame drops in handheld mode. For example, Yuffie triggers a brief slowdown when entering a warehouse elevator, but not when entering other nearby elevators. These issues are rare and typically appear during non-critical moments. Resolution may also drop slightly during visually intense combat sequences, such as when Yuffie performs ninjutsu attacks against multiple enemies. Despite these occasional drops, the framerate remains stable, making the gameplay experience largely unaffected.

Overall experience and port quality

Despite the minor technical hiccups, the Switch 2 port of Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is a notable achievement. The game maintains smooth performance, and most visual compromises are subtle enough that casual players are unlikely to notice them during normal gameplay. Some pop-in remains, particularly in Sector 7, where characters appear as the player approaches, and aliasing issues affect Yuffie’s hair when viewed up close.

For a title designed initially for more powerful hardware, the Switch 2 version is surprisingly polished. Square Enix has managed to balance performance and visual quality, producing a port that runs smoothly and delivers the core experience without major sacrifices. While it may not match the fidelity of the PlayStation 5 or PC versions, it offers a solid, portable option for fans who want to enjoy Midgar on the go.