It’s no longer news that a Nintendo Switch Pro model has been circulating the media for some time now. However, that hasn’t deterred Nintendo from their original plan, as their current focus is on existing switch form factors.
This rumor didn’t start today; it did shortly after the launch of the Switch, which made many speculate about an upgraded, more robust version of the game console. This has since birthed several rumors and expert opinions, just like a recent rumor that suggests the current Pro model may have support for DLSS 2.0 to improve the game’s visuals to about 4K resolution.
In my opinion, the current state of the Switch models is still efficient, so, there may not be any need for Nintendo to launch a Pro model.
Speaking with Polygon in an interview, Nintendo’s Doug Bowser spoke about the rumored “Switch Pro” model. He was asked about the current momentum of the Switch models.
In his reply, Bowser said that, while the company is on the lookout for new tech that can enhance and improve the gameplay experience, Nintendo’s focus is still on the current Switch models. As a result, fans should be realistic with their expectations.
Here’s an excerpt from the interview Doug Bowser had with Polygon:
“First we’re always looking at technology” “And as we know, technology is constantly evolving and changing,” Bowser noted. “And we’re always looking at what is coming to determine; how it can enhance and improve the overall gaming experience”
He continued: “And whether that’s on a current platform, or whether that’s on a future platform, we’re always on the lookout.”
“However, we tend to see right now, that the momentum on Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite in the fourth year is pretty strong.”
“And we believe we’re changing the trajectory of another typical console life cycle. And we will continue, for the foreseeable future, to really lean into both of those platforms and the content that comes with it, because it’s the symbiotic relationship that makes the real difference. And it’s why Nintendo Switch is so differentiated.”
Doug Bowser also touched on the hardware performance, “First, the hardware form factor, is something — that you have a gaming system that you can play at home as a console, and you can take on the go and play in handheld mode virtually anywhere — unique and remains unique within the industry.”
“But then the way we build games onto the platform, and the way partners build games onto the platform, is really what matters and the experience that you have when you play.”
“So that’s what we’ll continue to lean into as we go into really what will be the fifth year of Nintendo Switch. And as Mr. Furukawa mentioned in his corporate management policy briefing, we believe we’re just at the midpoint of this life cycle on this platform.”
At the end of the interview, Bowser was asked whether the success has removed the need for an early hardware refresh. He noted that it helped them manage the life cycle and the momentum of the hardware.
Here’s how he answered in the interview:
“It allows us to manage the life cycle differently, I would say” Bowser noted. “I think that’s the easiest way to put it. Right now, with the momentum that we have, our focus will be on the existing form factors.”
You can play the regular Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite are available worldwide now.
