The rumours have been circulating for months. The Nintendo NX is now the Nintendo Switch, and much of what was touted to be Nintendo’s new home console has come to be a reality. The new hardware is a home console/handheld hybrid, aiming to bridge the gap between living-room and on-the-go gaming.
With those countless rumours came talk of an Nvidia-powered console, and as it turns out, that is exactly what the Nintendo Switch is.
It will be powered by Nvidia graphics hardware, specifically the custom Tegra processor. The Tegra is a system-on-a-chip that includes an Nvidia processing unit. It features multiple processors, and can be found in a number of smartphones and, of course, Nvidia’s Shield set-top-box.
Nvidia says that the groundbreaking console took “500 man-years” of effort to create: all of the complex algorithms, computer architecture, system designs, system software, APIs, game engines and peripherals dictated countless hours of experimentation and innovation.
In order to get its processor working within the confines of Nintendo’s vision, Nvidia build a custom API called the “NVN”. This was created in order for Nvidia to craft an experience that could bring lightweight, fast gaming to the masses.
It’s a truly fascinating piece of hardware, and it will be interesting to see just how powerful it can be.
For more information on the Nintendo Switch, check out our Everything We Know So Far guide.
Marty_Mate
Saturday 22nd of October 2016
I believe the footage used in the reveal was simulated and not actual games running on actual hardware so it's not possible to get any idea of power with what's been shown.
Master Fenix
Monday 24th of October 2016
Seems that way. Bethesda hasn't even confirmed Skyrim.
Barters81
Friday 21st of October 2016
So it's not the X1 chip, nor is it the X2 chip.....it's a custom bit of kit.
Sounds interesting, and I'll certainly be holding for one on launch day. I've got a $150 EB voucher in my pocket which will more than likely go towards a pre-order.
The quality of the Skyrim shots on the trailer are a bit telling in that it's not the remaster (IMO), and looks a little dodgy. To be honest I thought BOTW looked not as good as the Wii U trailers........has me wondering.
Master Fenix
Friday 21st of October 2016
The big question is about power and how it translates to a portable device. It'll still be behind Xbox One and PS4, further behind PS4 Pro and Scorpio...but I'm not sure it matters.
Thoughts on launch price? I'm guessing $450 in Australia.