Fallout 4 Anniversary Edition on Switch 2: three modes, adjustable FPS, and first impressions

Initial impressions of the Fallout 4 Anniversary Edition on Switch 2, comparing with PS5 and Steam Deck, focusing on FPS, loading times, and visual quality.

Fallout 4 arrives on the Nintendo Switch 2 in the Anniversary Edition for $59.99 USD, bringing the base game, six additional content packs, and Creation Club material. The text compares performance with PS5 and Steam Deck based on the first few hours of gameplay.

The title does not offer gyro or mouse support on the Switch 2. The control options are the same as those seen in the PS5 version. By default, the game runs in a 120 Hz range when the display supports it, both in docked and handheld mode.

Before loading a save, it is possible to choose 30, 40, or 60 fps as the target. For comparisons with PS5 and Steam Deck, the author used the 30fps mode on the Switch 2 to maintain consistency in the comparison images.

The PS5 was tested with 60fps prioritizing performance; the Steam Deck used the default preset, which targets 60fps. The 60fps option noticeably affects resolution and detail level. Video capture was done in 4K for the 30 and 60 modes in the dock, as there is no 4K at 120fps mode.

In handheld mode, the author tested all three modes and used system screenshots to highlight the differences. Based on what was played, it is recommended to stick to 40fps in handheld mode and, in the dock, use 40fps or 30fps. The 60fps mode feels smoother than the desired experience on the Switch 2.

Switch 2 vs PS5: visuals and performance

In 30fps mode, the Switch 2 performs favorably against the PS5's 60fps mode. In 60fps mode, the Switch 2 appears smoother/less crisp.

Switch 2 vs Steam Deck

The Steam Deck is Steam Deck Verified and locks graphics options to 60fps, with little possibility for adjustment without launch commands. The 30fps mode on the Switch 2, according to the author, offers superior performance and visual quality to the Deck on the default preset, with the Switch 2 also offering options like a higher detail level compared to the Deck. The 40fps mode is pointed out as the best experience so far. If the goal is 60fps, the Deck remains the preferred choice over the Switch 2.

Loading Times

Loading times vary between platforms. The author tested with the game installed on the PS5's M.2 SSD, the Switch 2's microSD Express, and the Steam Deck's internal storage. The results (in seconds):

• Dashboard to title screen: PS5 8, Switch 2 14, Steam Deck 15
• Loading a save: PS5 8, Switch 2 25–26, Steam Deck 8

The Switch 2 features fast initial loads, but saves and in-game entries take longer than on PS5 and Steam Deck. The author used the confirmation prompt to speed up where possible.

Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition arrives with a promise of better portability than the announcement suggested. It reinforces the desire to see mouse and gyro support on the Switch 2, as well as more optimizations like those seen in the Skyrim version. Still, it is a port that meets expectations well based on the initial hours played. Coverage of other modes and Steam Deck options should continue when time allows.

Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition is already available for Switch 2, PS5, PS4, Xbox, and PC, bringing the base game, six add-ons, over 150 Creation Club items, and plenty of extra content.

Comment below: have you tested the Anniversary Edition on Switch 2 yet? Between 30fps, 40fps, or 60fps, which mode do you prefer for playing Fallout 4 and why?

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