Sources: Nintendo showed Switch 2 demos at Gamescom

 We're assuming the company was doing private tech shows ahead of the expected launch in 2024

Sources: Nintendo showed Switch 2 demos at Gamescom

Nintendo made a significant splash behind closed doors at Gamescom, offering a glimpse into the future of gaming with its potential Nintendo Switch successor. This exclusive peek into Nintendo's world came to light through a recent report from Eurogamer, and our own sources here at VGC have added weight to this exciting development.

The Japanese gaming giant invited select developers to experience specially crafted tech demos for their upcoming next-generation console, slated for a potential launch in the coming year. One of the standout demonstrations featured an enhanced rendition of the iconic launch title, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, running at remarkably improved frame rates and resolutions. However, it's important to note that this wasn't an announcement of the game's re-release.

Another noteworthy revelation was the showcasing of Epic's stunning tech demo, The Matrix Awakens, powered by Unreal Engine 5. Originally designed to showcase the capabilities of PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series Impressively, the demo utilized Nvidia's DLSS upscaling technology and boasted advanced ray tracing capabilities, delivering visuals that could stand toe-to-toe with Sony's and Microsoft's current-gen offerings. It's crucial to highlight that while Nintendo's successor aims for graphical presentation, it won't match the raw power of the PS5 or Xbox Series

DLSS, or deep learning super sampling, is an exclusive feature found on Nvidia graphics cards. On PC, it employs AI to upscale game resolutions, enabling developers to achieve superior graphical fidelity and smoother frame rates even on less potent hardware. According to Digital Foundry's analysis, DLSS produces visuals that are nearly indistinguishable from native resolutions when viewed at typical screen distances.

Importantly, Nintendo had hinted at its aspirations for AI upscaling technology back in March 2020 through patent filings. These patents, made public in 2021, describe a process reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch's core functionality, where a game can run at one resolution when running on battery power but upscales to 1080p when connected to a TV or power source. The diagrams accompanying these patents even suggest the potential for upscaling to 4K.

Nintendo has remained tight-lipped about its next-generation console plans in the public arena. However, a recent report from VGC suggests that the company is gearing up to unveil new hardware late next year. While specifics about this hardware are closely guarded secrets, our sources hint at a console that can be used in portable mode, mirroring the beloved versatility of the Nintendo Switch.

Dr. Serkan Toto, a Tokyo-based industry consultant, provided insight into the timing of Nintendo's potential 2024 console launch. He noted that it aligns with their financial performance, as the company anticipates double-digit declines in hardware and software sales for the current year. The Nintendo Switch, launched in March 2017, has seen impressive success, but with these declines looming, a new device in 2024 could be the key to reigniting the company's fortunes.

In conclusion, Nintendo's behind-the-scenes revelations at Gamescom have ignited excitement among gaming enthusiasts, hinting at a promising future for the beloved brand. With potential advancements in graphical capabilities and innovative upscaling technology, Nintendo appears poised to deliver yet another game-changing experience for its loyal fanbase and newcomers alike.