Alright, sandwich fans, let’s talk about the main course: Pokémon Legends: Z-A. We already knew the Switch 2 version would look better, but a new side-by-side comparison shows just how massive the upgrade really is.

While the original Switch version holds up, the new hardware isn’t just a coat of paint—it’s a full-course meal. Here’s the breakdown of what you’re getting if you’re playing on Nintendo’s next-gen console.

The Nitty-Gritty: Frame Rate & Resolution

This is where the rubber meets the road. The difference is anything but subtle:

• Frame Rate: Get ready for buttery-smooth 60 FPS on Switch 2, a huge leap from the locked 30 FPS on the original Switch. Exploring Lumiose City has never felt so fluid.
• Resolution: On the visual clarity front, the Switch 1 version maxes out at 1080p docked, but often hovers around 800p. The Switch 2 version, however, delivers a scaled 4K (2160p) image with a common resolution of 1080p. That’s a massive jump in sharpness right out of the gate.

Beyond the Spec Sheet: Sharper Textures, Less Pop-In

The benefits go beyond just numbers. The comparison shows that textures on the Switch 2 are significantly sharper, making the world feel more detailed and immersive. Even better, the dreaded “pop-in” (where objects suddenly appear out of nowhere) is far less severe. It’s a cleaner, more polished experience all around.

We’re sure the tech wizards at Digital Foundry will give us a pixel-perfect analysis soon, but for now, the evidence is clear.

Check out the full Pokémon Legends: Z-A Switch 2 vs. Switch 1 graphics comparison for yourself:

Pokémon Legends: Z-A launches this Thursday on both Nintendo systems. Will you be diving back into Lumiose City on new hardware or sticking with the classic?