Monolith Soft's Next Move Could Define the Switch 2's Legacy
Despite the impressive power of the Switch 2, Nintendo's new games have largely failed to harness its full potential. However, this trend may soon shift with the next release from Monolith Soft, a developer widely regarded as one of Nintendo's most critical assets outside of Nintendo EPD. The recent shadow-drop of Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition for Switch 2, priced at £4.19, offers a glimpse into Monolith Soft's technical prowess, boosting frame rates to 60fps and supporting enhanced resolutions up to 4K.
While this version mirrors the Switch 1 edition in content, its technical enhancements are significant. The game's massive scale, spanning over 60 hours, makes a full review impractical, but initial impressions confirm Monolith Soft's importance. The studio's ability to deliver such improvements underscores why their next project is eagerly anticipated.
Debates Over Xenoblade Chronicles X on Switch 2
Some fans have criticized the Switch 2 version of Xenoblade Chronicles X for issues like poor draw distance and flawed upscaling, which can make textures appear smeared. Reports suggest that Nintendo may issue refunds and updates to address these complaints, with Digital Foundry labeling it the worst Switch 2 edition to date. Yet, many players, including our own experience, have not noticed these problems and instead praised the smooth 60fps performance.
Technically, Xenoblade Chronicles X remains a standout title, even in its original Wii U form, allowing seamless exploration of a vast map without loading screens. The Switch 2 edition marks the first in the Xenoblade series to achieve 60fps, setting a hopeful precedent for future entries.
Monolith Soft's Role and History
Monolith Soft has consistently demonstrated technical excellence, dating back to the first Xenoblade Chronicles on the Wii, where it created expansive, detailed worlds without cutting-edge hardware. Acquired by Nintendo from Bandai Namco in 2007, the studio has proven invaluable, not only with its own Xenoblade series but also as a support studio for major Nintendo franchises.
- It contributed to groundbreaking titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and its sequel.
- Assisted with Switch 2 launch title Mario Kart World.
- Routinely helps with games such as Animal Crossing and Splatoon.
Zelda series general manager Daiki Iwamoto recently praised Monolith Soft as a 'strong partner,' hinting at potential future collaborations, possibly even a Zelda game led by the studio. The contrast between Monolith Soft's work and other titles, like Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, highlights its technical superiority.
Nintendo's Underwhelming Promotion of Switch 2 Power
Despite complaints about the Switch 2's similarity to its predecessor, Nintendo has done little to showcase the console's capabilities. There have been no tech demos, and the most technically impressive games are from third-party developers. Titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Bananza, while visually appealing, were originally designed for the Switch 1, limiting their impact.
Third-party ports have stepped in to demonstrate the Switch 2's power. Games like Cyberpunk 2077, Star Wars Outlaws, and Final Fantasy 7 Remake have received praise for their performance, even if they struggle to maintain 60fps. Resident Evil Requiem, for instance, runs smoothly on the Switch 2 despite being developed for the PlayStation 5, as noted by director Koshi Nakanishi.
Nintendo's secrecy about upcoming releases is unusual, especially given the lack of compelling reasons for such caution. Known projects like Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave are unlikely to be graphical showcases, and Monolith Soft's involvement in titles like Splatoon Raiders remains uncertain.
Looking Ahead to Monolith Soft's Next Project
Based on its release pattern, Monolith Soft typically unveils a new game every two to three years. With Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition released last year, the studio's next title could emerge as early as 2027. While specifics are unknown, Monolith Soft is likely involved in upcoming Zelda and Animal Crossing games, and there is potential for collaboration on a 3D Mario title following Donkey Bananza's completion.
Monolith Soft's next major project is poised to be a turning point for the Switch 2, as the studio is known for working on Nintendo's most important and technically advanced games. If Nintendo has been slow to leverage the Switch 2's power, Monolith Soft's upcoming release could finally change that narrative, setting a new standard for the console's capabilities.
