IO Interactive confirmed at the Tokyo Game Show that the Nintendo Switch 2 version of 007 First Light will run exclusively in a 30 FPS mode. The development team had internally tested a 60 FPS solution, but the tests were unsuccessful, leading them to ultimately optimize for stable performance.
To leverage the hardware features of the Switch 2, the development team will employ mesh shading rendering and adjust object draw distances. To handle the load from large numbers of NPCs appearing simultaneously and complex lighting, the team will also draw on experience gained while developing the engine for the Hitman series to improve performance.
The handheld mode interface will also be adapted separately. The quality assurance department will check in-game fonts and menu elements to ensure they remain clear and readable on the console's smaller screen. The development team also confirmed that the Switch 2 version will not support mouse input.
The delay is related both to code polishing and publishing arrangements. The game was originally planned for a September launch, but the fall schedule became crowded due to several studios adjusting their project timelines, with some publishers hoping to avoid direct competition with GTA 6.
The Nintendo Switch 2 version of 007 First Light is now scheduled for official release in March 2027.