Call of Duty 23 on Switch 2 Prioritizes Frame Rate Over Resolution in Early Tests

Summary

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 (tentatively referred to as COD 23) is the latest installment in the iconic FPS series, developed by Infinity Ward and published by Activision. It is scheduled to launch on October 23, 2026, for PC, PS5, Switch 2, and XSX. The beta test is currently live on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, while the Switch 2 version has not yet opened public testing. However, select media and content creators have already gained early access, sharing hands-on impressions and gameplay footage. Multiple testers unanimously report that Activision made a clear trade-off on the Switch 2 version: prioritizing frame rate at the cost of resolution and visual fidelity. In docked mode, the game mostly hits 60fps, but frame drops and stuttering occur during chaotic multiplayer battles and heavy explosion effects. Native resolution is underwhelming, with noticeable image noise and texture distortion that worsen when turning the camera or sprinting. An editor from Nintendo World mentioned that Activision representatives confirmed in the official beta Discord that the Switch 2 version utilizes the console's built-in DLSS, and the editor bluntly stated that it is the worst DLSS implementation they have ever seen, with visual degradation exceeding most third-party Switch 2 ports. This has sparked discussion among players about the balance between portability and performance. For…