Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition and Its Hidden 60 FPS Mode
A recent discovery by a modder has sparked speculation that Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition may be preparing for a release on the highly anticipated Switch 2. The modder found a hidden 60 FPS mode within the game, leading to theories that this setting might have been intended for the next-generation console. While it’s possible that this feature was an early development experiment that got scrapped during the remastering process, its presence suggests that a future version optimized for Switch 2 could be in the works.
A Look at Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition
Originally launched for the Wii U in 2015, Xenoblade Chronicles X was a groundbreaking RPG that pushed the limits of open-world gaming. The Definitive Edition enhances the experience with improved visuals, refined mechanics, and interface adjustments that accommodate the absence of the GamePad. Notable changes include the removal of BLADE and Field Levels, as well as modifications to the battle system. Additionally, veteran players can enjoy new post-game story content featuring a fresh Skell pilot character and a formidable enemy faction, further expanding the game’s lore.
Modder Discovery Fuels Speculation
Following its official release on March 20 for the Nintendo Switch, rumors have swirled about a potential Switch 2 version. Twitter user and modder masagratordev analyzed the RPG’s dynamic resolution settings and uncovered the hidden 60 FPS mode. When activated on the current Switch hardware, this mode causes unusual rendering issues, with gameplay being displayed at 60 FPS but only delivering 30 usable frames per second. Notably, no other Xenoblade title has a similar hidden setting, further fueling speculation that this feature may be tied to an upcoming Switch 2 upgrade.
Could Xenoblade Chronicles X Be Optimized for Switch 2?
Industry experts often regard Xenoblade Chronicles X as an engineering marvel, given its vast open-world design and intricate mechanics. Many consider it remarkable that such an ambitious game ran on the Wii U at all, attributing its performance to the technical prowess of Monolith Soft. The existence of a 60 FPS setting, even if currently non-functional, raises the possibility that the developers initially aimed for a smoother frame rate but abandoned the effort midway due to hardware limitations. If the game receives a Switch 2 patch, it could finally achieve the long-desired 60 FPS performance.
A Technological Triumph Despite FPS Limitations
Even without achieving a full 60 FPS, Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition remains an impressive RPG. Its expansive world, deep gameplay systems, and seamless exploration make it one of the standout titles from the Wii U era. Now available on the Switch, the game benefits from high-resolution visuals, an enhanced soundtrack, and modern quality-of-life improvements to refine the player experience. If a Switch 2 version does emerge, it could mark a new chapter for this beloved title, taking full advantage of next-gen hardware capabilities.
