Continuing their exploration of the performance of the new Zelda: Breath of the Wild game across both the new Nintendo Switch and older Nintendo Wii U consoles, Digital Foundry has this week published a new performance video. This video stress tests the game on both Nintendo console systems side-by-side, providing a revealing look at how the game has been built as well as CPU glitching in the open world.
Performance Comparison: Nintendo Switch vs. Wii U
Since its launch earlier this month on March 3rd, 2017, the Nintendo Switch and the new The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild game have proved to be hugely popular. Amazon is now shipping its latest stock at the end of this month due to high demand. The game has captivated players with its expansive open world, intricate puzzles, and engaging storyline.
Digital Foundry’s performance video delves deep into the technical aspects of the game, comparing how it runs on the Nintendo Switch versus the Wii U. One of the key areas of focus is the CPU performance in the open world. The video highlights instances of CPU glitching, which can affect gameplay experience. By stress-testing the GPU on both consoles, Digital Foundry provides insights into the graphical capabilities and limitations of each system.
Technical Insights and Gameplay Experience
The Nintendo Switch, being the newer console, generally offers a smoother and more visually appealing experience. The game runs at a higher resolution and with better frame rates compared to the Wii U. However, the Wii U still holds its ground, delivering a commendable performance given its older hardware. The differences in performance are particularly noticeable in areas with dense foliage or complex structures, where the Switch maintains a steadier frame rate.
One of the standout features of Breath of the Wild is its dynamic weather system and day-night cycle, which add to the immersive experience. Digital Foundry’s analysis shows that the Switch handles these transitions more gracefully, with fewer frame drops and smoother animations. On the Wii U, players might experience occasional stuttering during these transitions, but it does not significantly detract from the overall gameplay.
Another aspect explored in the video is the loading times between the two consoles. The Switch, with its faster processing power and modern architecture, boasts quicker load times, allowing players to dive back into the action with minimal delay. The Wii U, while slower, still manages to keep load times within a reasonable range, ensuring that players are not left waiting for extended periods.
Check out the video below to learn more about the Switch vs. Wii U performance test carried out by Digital Foundry, who focused on the CPU glitching in the open world as well as stress-testing the GPU on both consoles.
In conclusion, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild offers an exceptional gaming experience on both the Nintendo Switch and the Wii U. While the Switch provides a more polished and seamless experience, the Wii U version remains a solid option for those who have yet to upgrade to the newer console. Digital Foundry’s performance video serves as a valuable resource for gamers looking to understand the technical differences and make an informed decision on which platform to play the game.
Source: Digital Foundry
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