Digital Foundry Tests Cyberpunk 2077: A Deep Dive Into Switch 2, Xbox Series S, PS4, And PS4 Pro Performance

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Post on Aug 03, 2025

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Digital Foundry Tests Cyberpunk 2077: A Deep Dive into Switch 2 (Hypothetical), Xbox Series S, PS4, and PS4 Pro Performance

Cyberpunk 2077, CD Projekt Red's ambitious open-world RPG, has faced its fair share of criticism since launch, much of it centered around performance issues on various platforms. Now, with rumors swirling about a potential Nintendo Switch 2 release and the continued availability on older consoles, Digital Foundry has conducted a comprehensive analysis comparing the game's performance across a range of hardware: a hypothetical Switch 2, Xbox Series S, PS4, and PS4 Pro. The results reveal a fascinating range of compromises and successes.

A Hypothetical Switch 2 Performance (Speculation Based on Leaks):

While a Switch 2 release of Cyberpunk 2077 remains unconfirmed, Digital Foundry speculates on what performance might look like based on rumored hardware specifications. Assuming a significant upgrade in processing power and GPU capabilities, they anticipate a possible target of 720p at a fluctuating 30fps. This would likely involve significant graphical downgrades compared to other platforms, potentially including lower draw distances, reduced texture quality, and simplified lighting effects. However, the portability factor could make this a surprisingly compelling experience for those prioritizing convenience over visual fidelity. Further details depend heavily on the final Switch 2 hardware specifications.

Xbox Series S: A Budget-Friendly, Compromised Experience:

The Xbox Series S, while a powerful console in its own right, struggles to run Cyberpunk 2077 smoothly. Digital Foundry's testing revealed that maintaining a stable 30fps is often a challenge, particularly in densely populated areas or during intense action sequences. Resolution frequently dips below 1080p, further compromising the visual experience. The Series S version prioritizes frame rate over resolution, resulting in a playable but visually less impressive experience than its more powerful counterparts.

PS4 and PS4 Pro: A Tale of Two Consoles:

The PS4's struggles with Cyberpunk 2077 are well-documented. Digital Foundry's analysis confirms persistent frame rate drops and significantly reduced visual fidelity compared to more powerful platforms. Resolution often falls below 1080p, with noticeable texture pop-in and draw distance limitations.

The PS4 Pro offers a slightly improved experience, with a higher target resolution and smoother frame rates in less demanding areas. However, even the Pro still suffers from frame rate fluctuations, particularly in busy sections of Night City. Both PS4 versions highlight the considerable limitations of the older hardware when tackling such a graphically demanding game.

Key Differences and Performance Considerations:

Digital Foundry's analysis highlighted several key differences in performance across these platforms:

• Resolution: The range varies significantly, from sub-720p on the hypothetical Switch 2 to near 1080p on the Xbox Series S and PS4 Pro (with significant fluctuations).
• Frame Rate: Maintaining a stable 30fps is a challenge on all platforms except potentially a theoretical, highly optimized Switch 2 version. Expect significant dips, especially on the PS4 and Xbox Series S.
• Graphics Settings: Lower resolution and significant compromises in texture quality, shadow detail, and draw distances are prevalent across all the lower-end platforms.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Cyberpunk 2077 Experience:

The choice of platform heavily impacts the Cyberpunk 2077 experience. For those prioritizing visual fidelity and a smooth frame rate, more powerful consoles are recommended. However, for those willing to compromise on visuals for portability (in the hypothetical Switch 2 scenario) or affordability (Xbox Series S), the game remains playable, albeit with limitations. Digital Foundry's comprehensive analysis provides valuable insight for potential players considering which platform offers the best balance of performance and cost. This in-depth look at the game's performance across different platforms helps players make informed decisions before purchasing.

Keywords: Cyberpunk 2077, Digital Foundry, PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox Series S, Nintendo Switch 2, performance analysis, game review, console comparison, graphical settings, frame rate, resolution.