Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen launches on Nintendo Switch 2

Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen has launched on multiple platforms, including a version for the Nintendo Switch 2 that includes both the base game and the expansion in a single package. The expansion introduces the snowy Norgan region, 12 new dungeon challenges, and additional character customization options such as new hairstyles and tattoos.

Technical analysis from Digital Foundry indicates that the Switch 2 version performs competitively against the Xbox Series S, with some areas showing better shadow clarity and stability. The port utilizes DLSS to upscale 540p in docked mode to 1080p and a lower resolution in handheld mode to target 720p. However, the Switch 2 version features simplified lighting, reduced foliage density, and lower-resolution reflections compared to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X versions. While an unlocked mode allows for frame rates between 35 and 50fps, the standard 30fps mode experiences poor frame pacing. A frame generation mode is available to improve smoothness but introduces approximately 130ms of input latency.

The expansion also features a new music track, ‘Burn The Sky,’ composed by Casey Edwards and Ollie Swift.