Following my adventures in Tales of, Monster Hunter, and Dragon Quest, I’m excited to explore another beloved role-playing game series on my Nintendo Switch 2. The latest backward compatibility feature brings Xenoblade Chronicles to life, available through remakes, remasters, ports, and new installments. In the spirit of previous tests, I’ll be assessing load times, performance, and other aspects across both the Nintendo Switch 2 and original Nintendo Switch. Today’s article will focus on Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition, Xenoblade Chronicles 3, and the Definitive Edition of Xenoblade Chronicles X. I’ll also delve into Xenoblade Chronicles 2: Torna ~ The Golden Country and Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Future Redeemed, comparing them alongside their base games for any DLC releases.
In this discussion, I’ll share my thoughts about desired enhancements for potential updates or Nintendo Switch 2 editions of the Xenoblade Chronicles series. It’s fascinating to observe how the engine has been refined with each release, even noticing subtle advancements from Xenoblade Chronicles 2 to the Torna expansion. For today’s load time tests, I utilized the digital versions of every game stored on both the internal memory and SD card of the Nintendo Switch 2 (or OLED). Wherever feasible, I rapidly pressed A to expedite loading and minimize displaying publisher and developer logos.
How does Xenoblade Chronicles 2 run on Nintendo Switch 2?
I absolutely love Xenoblade Chronicles 2 and it ranks not only as my top pick in the series, but also among my all-time favorite games. Sadly, its play on Nintendo Switch wasn’t perfect due to poor image quality and performance glitches. Specifically, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 had troubles with sharpening and low overall resolution targets. However, when Torna: The Golden Country was launched, Monolith Soft improved the engine’s handling of sharpening, making the DLC look slightly better. Regrettably, both the main game and the DLC struggled with performance issues.
Transitioning to the Nintendo Switch 2, it’s pleasing to notice that many games consistently reach the 30fps benchmark more frequently and even run towards the upper end of the adaptive resolution scale. Although the frame rate isn’t always a flawless 30fps, it comes very close and generally provides a smoother, more responsive gaming experience compared to the original Switch. This difference is particularly noticeable during combat. However, some issues such as draw distance and texture loading delays during fast travel persist in the new model. There are improvements in load times though.
| Test condition | Nintendo Switch | Nintendo Switch 2 |
| Dashboard to title screen | 13 | 8 |
| Loading a save from title screen to in-game | 15 | 11 |
| Event Theater loading a cut-scene | 17 | 12 |
| Swapping from Torna to XC2 on title screen | 9 | 7 |
| Loading a Torna save from title screen to in-game | 13 | 10 |
| Fast travel from Torigoth to Mor Ardain | 10 | 9 |
Note: All load times above are in seconds.
What we want from a Xenoblade Chronicles 2 Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade
Considering the game’s age, it would be great if there’s a Xenoblade Chronicles 2: Definitive Edition release that incorporates some user-friendly enhancements and significantly increases the resolution, aiming for a smooth 60fps and including HDR on Nintendo Switch 2. I’m not holding my breath for a Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade or free patch given its age, but if we can get a free update similar to other games, I’d appreciate a significant improvement in resolution with HDR at the very least.
How does Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition run on Nintendo Switch 2?
In a departure from previous releases like Xenoblade Chronicles 2 and Torna, Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition was launched next, introducing modifications to Monolith Soft’s post-processing and visual style. While the sharpening adjustments were appreciated by some, I found a few aspects of it less satisfying at launch. The characters appeared slightly blurry relative to their surroundings. In terms of image quality, both games had comparable dynamic resolution ranges. However, Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition always looked clearer on the Switch in handheld mode compared to Xenoblade Chronicles 2, although the difference wasn’t substantial. On a positive note, performance was generally more consistent across all areas in Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition, though there were occasional hiccups in busier locations.
In the updated version of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition on Switch 2, I noticed improved stability and faster load times. I tried pushing the game to its limits by testing various areas and combat sequences, but it consistently performed well without any slowdowns. Compared to Xenoblade Chronicles 2, the base game of Definitive Edition was initially more polished, but I wanted to see how Future Connected would perform on Switch 2 since it had some issues with the original console. Although Future Connected appears slightly softer than the base game on Switch 2 as well, it runs smoothly. For those who skipped playing Future Connected before and now own a Switch 2, this could be an excellent opportunity to experience it, as it generally performs more stably in the updated version.
| Test condition | Nintendo Switch | Nintendo Switch 2 |
| Dashboard to title screen | 30 | 24 |
| Loading a save from title screen to in-game | 10 | 7 |
| Event Theater loading a cut-scene | 8 | 7 |
| Fast travel from Makna Forest to Valak Mountain | 7 | 6 |
| Swapping to Extra Story from XC title screen | 12 | 12 |
| Loading Extra Story save and getting in-game | 15 | 12 |
Note: All load times above are in seconds.
What we want from a Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade
Definitive Edition will receive a significant update from Nintendo beyond a possible patch, given its numerous re-releases and ports across various Nintendo platforms. However, what I’d really appreciate is an improvement in resolution for both docked and handheld modes, as this would greatly enhance the gameplay experience. As for the frame rate, while I’m not certain if a 60fps upgrade is possible from an engineering standpoint, I wouldn’t mind seeing such an update as a paid option. Playing Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition again has rekindled my desire to replay the original game on the upcoming Switch 2.
How does Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition run on Nintendo Switch 2?
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition was almost simultaneously launched with the rumored Nintendo Switch 2 announcement in March. Although I haven’t completed it like other games within this series, I have invested more than 70 hours into it on the Nintendo Switch. Unfortunately, I hadn’t unlocked flying capabilities yet, so Cullen provided some insights about that feature on the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. Prior to its successor, Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition boasted the best visual quality among all Switch games. It also featured swift load times, but it was plagued by input lag that frequently irritated me. I learned to tolerate the limited draw distance for certain elements, but the input lag significantly affected my overall gaming experience on the original Nintendo Switch.
Transitioning to Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition on the Nintendo Switch 2, I find it significantly more responsive overall, even without any updates. The frame rate in congested areas remains steady, a marked improvement from the occasional slowdown experienced in New Los Angeles on the original Nintendo Switch. Although load times are somewhat shorter, the improved responsiveness stands out as the most noticeable upgrade for me. In terms of later gameplay segments, Cullen commented that flying with a Skell feels more stable on the Switch 2 compared to the Switch 1. I’m eagerly anticipating trying this out myself, as I’ve been focusing mainly on optional content thus far. All things considered, it seems that Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition benefits most from the upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2, in my opinion.
| Test condition | Nintendo Switch | Nintendo Switch 2 |
| Dashboard to title screen | 9-10 | 4-5 |
| Loading a save from title screen to in-game | 10 | 7 |
| Fast travel | 8 | 8 |
Keep in mind that all loading times mentioned are in seconds. Additionally, the image of the Skell shown is taken during handheld mode.
What we want from a Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade
After the launch of Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition a few months back, I’m hoping for a complimentary update or a Nintendo Switch 2 version patch that incorporates 60fps functionality and improved resolution all around. However, my primary request is for enhanced draw distance to minimize the visual pop-in issues, even on the upgraded Nintendo Switch 2.
How does Xenoblade Chronicles 3 run on Nintendo Switch 2?
In simple terms, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 surpassed its predecessors by offering the most visually stunning portable adventure yet within the Xenoblade Chronicles series. The game took full advantage of Nintendo Switch’s capabilities, boasting improved cutscenes and an overall more refined and polished experience. Although upscaling was employed to tackle the lower resolution, it wasn’t flawless. Occasionally, performance dipped, particularly in complex visual settings or during intense battles. This issue extended to the Future Redeemed DLC as well, which I strongly recommend for fans of the Xenoblade series.
Regarding Xenoblade Chronicles 3, it did receive a patch tailored for the Nintendo Switch 2, but this update seems to focus more on gameplay enhancements rather than visual or performance upgrades. The patch notes state that “adjustments have been made to improve gameplay on Nintendo Switch 2”, however, I didn’t personally observe any significant changes in game performance. What I did notice was a notable reduction in slowdown during battle and exploration scenes, which were common issues on the original Switch, particularly when moving the camera quickly or engaging in battles. As a result, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 maintains its 30fps target smoothly, allowing for uninterrupted exploration across various locations without the frequent slowdowns experienced on the initial Nintendo Switch model.
| Test condition | Nintendo Switch | Nintendo Switch 2 |
| Dashboard to title screen | 43 | 24 |
| Loading a save from title screen to in-game | 19 | 12 |
| Event Theater loading a cut-scene | 14 | 13 |
| Swapping to base game from Future Redeemed title screen | 28 | 23 |
| Loading a Future Redeemed save file | 28 | 21 |
| Fast travel from Aetia Region to the City interior | 17 | 12 |
Note: All load times above are in seconds.
What we want from a Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 could greatly improve with a boost in resolution and frame rate to 60fps. Unlike Xenoblade Chronicles 2, it doesn’t seem to require quality-of-life enhancements, but a new version tailored for the Nintendo Switch 2, boasting visual and performance upgrades, would be greatly appreciated by fans.
Should there be new versions or enhancements released for any of the Xenoblade Chronicles series, I’ll take another look at them later to identify any changes that may have occurred.
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2025-06-28 14:57