Devil May Cry 5: Devil Hunter Edition Switch 2 Performance Review
Capcom has released Devil May Cry 5: Devil Hunter Edition for the Nintendo Switch 2, priced at $39.99 in the US and £34.99 in the UK. According to early performance tests, the title maintains a consistent 60fps in both docked and portable modes, establishing a new benchmark for high-action third-party ports on Nintendo’s latest hardware.
How does the Switch 2 change performance for action games?
The transition to Switch 2 hardware allows for frame rates that were previously unattainable on portable Nintendo devices. For hack-and-slash titles, 60fps is considered a necessity to prevent combat from feeling sluggish. Capcom has achieved this target for Devil May Cry 5 across both play modes, ensuring the action remains fluid whether the console is docked or handheld.
While the visual fidelity does not match the PlayStation 5 version, the jump from previous generation hardware is stark. A direct comparison to Bayonetta 3—released on the original Switch in 2022—reveals a significant increase in visual clarity and power, even when Bayonetta 3 utilizes its “boost mode.”
Why is Capcom focusing on the Nintendo ecosystem?
Capcom is currently in the middle of a high-output cycle, with titles like Monster Hunter Wilds, Resident Evil Requiem, and Pragmata defining its current trajectory. By bringing polished ports of existing hits to the Switch 2, the company maximizes the lifecycle of its intellectual property while tapping into Nintendo’s massive install base.
This strategy suggests a commitment to “day-and-date” or near-simultaneous releases for future blockbusters. If Capcom can maintain 60fps for a title as demanding as Devil May Cry 5, it increases the likelihood that the next mainline entry in the series will launch on Switch 2 with high performance targets.
What are the implications for future portable ports?
The success of this port provides a blueprint for other developers. For years, portable versions of “AAA” games required massive compromises in resolution and frame rate. The Switch 2’s ability to handle DMC 5 at 60fps indicates that the hardware gap between handhelds and home consoles is narrowing.
This development likely influences the production of upcoming titles, such as the anticipated Bayonetta 4. Developers can now target a higher baseline of performance, reducing the need for “Lite” versions of games that often alienated core fans.
Performance Comparison: Switch Generations
| Feature | Original Switch (e.g., Bayonetta 3) | Switch 2 (DMC 5) |
|---|---|---|
| Target Frame Rate | Variable/Lower | Consistent 60fps |
| Visual Fidelity | Lower baseline | Significant increase |
| Portable Experience | Compromised action | Near-parity with home consoles |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price of Devil May Cry 5 on Switch 2?
The game is priced at $39.99 in the US and £34.99 in the UK.
Does the game run at 60fps in handheld mode?
Yes, according to early testing, Capcom has managed to maintain 60fps in both docked and portable play.
How does it compare to the PS5 version?
There is a visual downgrade compared to the PS5, but the performance remains smooth and the fidelity is significantly higher than original Switch titles.
For more updates on the latest Nintendo hardware and Capcom releases, stay tuned to our gaming coverage.
What do you think about the jump in power for the Switch 2? Are there other Capcom titles you want to see ported? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more industry insights.