Hogwarts Legacy is one of 2023's biggest games so far. The reimagining of the classic Harry Potter franchise in the video game light has broken multiple records, and received critical acclaim for delivering an incredible story and gameplay experience, however, while it's played by millions worldwide, Nintendo Switch users are still patiently awaiting its launch on the handheld.
Originally set to release on the Nintendo Switch in July 2023, Avalanche Software has delayed Hogwarts Legacy once again to further improve stability. There's no doubt that Hogwarts Legacy stutters from time to time on even the most cutting-edge devices, so a delay was inevitable, though fans did think that Avalanche would stay true to their word. That said, Nintendo Switch owners will have to stay put a while longer before they can grab a copy of the game, and if you're curious about the duration of the wait, then here's a quick rundown of everything you should know.
When's Hogwarts Legacy Releasing On The Nintendo Switch?
Hogwarts Legacy is scheduled to be released on the Nintendo Switch on November 14, 2023. This is about a further four months of delay when compared to the original launch date for the Switch, but this time it seems that Avalanche will in fact deliver on their promise.
Hogwarts Legacy launches on Nintendo Switch on 11/14/23. We know fans are looking forward to playing on Switch, therefore creating the best possible experience is our top priority. Thank you for your patience.
Available now on PS5 & PS4, Xbox X|S & Xbox One, and PC. pic.twitter.com/nADIeNbMvw— Hogwarts Legacy (@HogwartsLegacy) May 12, 2023
Anybody who has been keeping up with Hogwarts Legacy over the years knows the innumerable delays it has faced. Another delay might not be shocking news to most as the launch performance issues of Hogwarts Legacy spelled out clearly that the game needs a truckload of patches and optimization.
A setback to the port for the Nintendo Switch, a device that is far less powerful than even a PS4, was definitely an outcome. It was anticipated that it would fall behind by some time, however being pushed back to November wasn't something fans were counting on. That said, pre-orders are live on select retailers for those who'd like to receive their cartridges on day-one.
A ton of new games have dropped since Hogwarts Legacy's global launch including The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Star Wars: Jedi Survivor, and as more time passes by, people are shifting interest, so it'd be in the studio's best interest to make haste on the Nintendo Switch version. For now, I'd recommend Switch players keep their fingers crossed that the port arrives on time.
Hogwarts Legacy Nintendo Switch Performance
Avalanche Software hasn't issued any official statement concerning how Hogwarts Legacy will run on the Nintendo Switch, though I reckon it won't be a treat to play. On the PS5 it maintains a 1440p resolution at 60 frames, whereas on a PS4 that's lowered to 900p at 30 frames. Seeing as the Switch is the weakest of the three, 720p is what you should expect at a stable 30 frames in the device's handheld mode.
The docked mode should target 900p, albeit I wouldn't put hiccups in performance past it. It also goes without saying that these resolutions on the Nintendo Switch will be accompanied by major downgrades to the textures, VFX, draw distance, and the general quality as a whole. That isn't something Switch owners would like to hear, but since the device is practically ancient hardware in comparison to a PS5, I see no other way for the developers to make the port possible.
