FF7 Remake doesn't have a performance mode on Nintendo Switch 2 - but it doesn't need one

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade has finally hit Nintendo Switch 2, bringing a souped up version of the 2020 re-imagining to the handheld console.

Despite being far less powerful than the PlayStation 5, Nintendo’s latest device is capable of delivering impressive image quality, even when played in handheld mode. However, new players used to high frame rates will no doubt be searching the settings menu for a potential performance mode to make gameplay feel a tad more smooth.

I’ve been playing Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade on Nintendo Switch 2 for over a week, and I can tell you that if you were holding out for a performance mode, it’s bad news.

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Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade doesn’t have a performance mode on Nintendo Switch 2. Players are locked into one graphics setting determined by the game’s developer, which has the game running at a locked 30 frames per second.

When docked, the resolution maintains a steady 1080p. The game also outputs at 1080p when played in handheld mode, although Digital Foundry suspects this is actually running at an internal resolution of 720p and upscaled to match the Switch 2’s screen.

So, you won’t be playing Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade at 60fps on the Switch 2 anytime soon - you’ll need a PlayStation 5 to achieve that.

There is some good news, however.

While the game might run at 30fps, it remains extremely consistent throughout much of the game’s runtime. Excellent frame pacing ensures that the frame rate feels smooth to play, even in chaotic combat sections where the camera is moving quickly with lots of particle effects on screen.

I’m usually someone who’s particularly sensitive to low frame rates and poor frame pacing while playing on PC, and was a little cautious about playing Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade on Switch 2. However, I can honestly say after several hours of gameplay that the frame rate hasn’t bothered me once, which is a testament to how well the game runs on the platform.

Of course, if you want super high resolution textures and a 60fps frame rate, you’ll need to play on either PlayStation 5 or PC. However, being able to take the game on the go is a worthwhile tradeoff for me, and likely will be for plenty of other gamers too.