Key Takeaways
1. Donkey Kong Bananza shows progress in the 3D platforming genre but does not fully utilize the enhanced specs of the Switch 2.
2. The game uses older FSR 1 upscaling technology, resulting in softer graphics compared to newer technologies like DLSS.
3. Handheld mode offers better performance with a stable resolution of 1080p, while docked mode struggles to maintain 1200p and often drops in resolution.
4. Performance issues arise from double-buffered vsync, leading to noticeable stutters and frame rate drops, especially during boss battles.
5. Despite technical flaws, the game’s character and map designs are well-received, with impressive destructible physics enhancing player engagement.
Digital Foundry has released its review focused on the performance of Donkey Kong Bananza. While the site acknowledges that the Switch 2 title marks progress within the 3D platforming genre, it also points out some technical issues. John Linneman indicates that the game does not fully take advantage of the enhanced specifications of the Switch 2.
Critiques on Graphics
A lot of the feedback highlights the use of the older FSR 1, which is less effective than the newer DLSS upscaling technology. The vibrant above-ground and underground settings are filled with intricate details. However, Linneman feels that the visuals would benefit from clearer graphics if a more modern upscaler had been used. The combination of FSR and the SMAA post-process anti-aliasing leads to images that may appear softer than what some players anticipated.
Handheld vs. Docked Performance
Interestingly, Digital Foundry found that Donkey Kong Bananza performs better in handheld mode. When docked, the game only reaches a maximum resolution of 1200p, but it frequently drops below that level. Naturally, these visual flaws become more apparent on larger screens.
In handheld mode, the game maintains a stable resolution of 1080p. The Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), which doesn’t work when docked, could help in keeping the gameplay smooth. Unfortunately, similar to other Switch 2 titles, the VRR feature fails to function at 40 fps or lower. This issue arises in Donkey Kong Bananza, particularly during boss battles and certain animations, which heavily impact the frame rates.
Performance Hiccups
Linneman also attributes some performance issues to double-buffered vsync, which causes noticeable stutters. Instead of having smaller dips below 60 fps, the game often displays visuals at just 30 fps.
Fortunately, these graphical drawbacks did not spoil the overall experience for Linneman. Looking at its Metacritic score, many reviews of Donkey Kong Bananza praise the character and map designs as delightful. Additionally, the destructible physics are impressive, enhancing the players’ connection to the game’s virtual environment. Nonetheless, since development began on the original console, not all of the enhanced features of the Switch 2 are fully showcased.
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