Nintendo Switch 2's new GameCube classics support has drawn attention, but potential players are questioning the emulator's performance, especially regarding input latency. Four retro titles are currently available, including fan favorites like F-Zero GX and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. Testing revealed that the emulator adds approximately 52ms of latency compared to the original GameCube, which could impact gameplay, especially in fast-paced titles. Despite these issues, the upgrades in image quality and overall smoother performance provide a compelling experience, although concerns about dropped frames and control sensitivity remain.
Does Nintendo Switch 2's GameCube emulator have latency issues compared to original hardware?Yes, the Nintendo Switch 2's GameCube emulator has been found to add a noticeable amount of input latency, approximately 52ms, compared to the original GameCube hardware. This is particularly impactful for fast-paced games like F-Zero GX.
F-Zero GX, released in 2003 for the GameCube, is notable for its high-speed racing and technical difficulty. As a sequel to the F-Zero franchise, it features complex track designs and demands precise control, which highlights the issues arising from increased input latency on the emulator. This legacy contributes to the high expectations fans have for its performance on the Switch 2.
Casey Loh
Casey Loh is a tech-savvy writer who specializes in the intersection of gaming and technology. With a background in computer science, Casey brings a technical lens to her reviews, breaking down the nuts and bolts of game engines, graphics, and AI innovation.
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Comments
Honestly, 52ms is the kind of lag that separates the casual racers from the F-Zero speed demons—good luck nailing those snaking turns now. Still, seeing Wind Waker in HD almost makes me forgive the occasional frame drop.
Nintendo’s walking that fine line between nostalgia and modern performance, but at least they’re finally giving GameCube the spotlight it deserves. Maybe next they’ll fix the latency and finally let us play Eternal Darkness without the extra dread of input delay.
52ms might not sound like much, but for a game like F-Zero GX, that’s the difference between first place and crashing into a wall. Still, the visual upgrades make it tempting—just don’t expect a flawless nostalgia trip.
Input lag aside, it’s wild to see GameCube games getting this much love in 2024. Here’s hoping Nintendo irons out the kinks before more classics hit the library.