Racing fans eager to see how modern motorsport titles will perform on Nintendo’s next-generation hardware finally have clear answers. GRID Legends: Deluxe Edition Switch 2 Graphics and Performance Modes Detailed. GRID Legends: Deluxe Edition is launching on Nintendo Switch 2 with two distinct visual modes—Graphics Mode and Performance Mode—giving players direct control over how the game prioritizes visuals versus smoothness.
The decision to offer selectable modes is a strong signal of confidence in Switch 2’s capabilities and places GRID Legends among the most technically flexible third-party titles announced for the platform so far.
Two Modes, Two Playstyles
Rather than locking players into a single presentation, GRID Legends: Deluxe Edition allows racers to tailor the experience to their preference. Whether you value cinematic presentation or razor-sharp responsiveness, there’s a mode designed specifically for that playstyle.
This approach mirrors what players expect on modern consoles and highlights Nintendo Switch 2’s move toward more traditional “current-gen” options.
Graphics Mode: Visuals Take the Lead
Graphics Mode is built for players who want the most visually impressive version of GRID Legends on Switch 2. When enabled, the game prioritizes image quality and environmental detail.
Players can expect:
- Higher resolution output in docked mode
- Improved lighting and reflections on car bodies
- Richer shadows and track-side detail
- More dramatic weather and time-of-day effects
This mode leans into GRID Legends’ cinematic DNA, emphasizing atmosphere, presentation, and spectacle. Night races, rain-soaked circuits, and story-driven events benefit most from the added visual polish.
Frame rates are lower than in Performance Mode, but stability remains the focus—making it a great choice for single-player campaigns, replays, and players who enjoy soaking in the detail of each track.
Performance Mode: Smooth Racing First
For competitive drivers and players sensitive to frame rate, Performance Mode flips the priority. This mode focuses on higher and more consistent frame rates, resulting in smoother motion and faster response times.
Performance Mode highlights include:
- Smoother gameplay, targeting up to 60fps where possible
- Reduced input latency for more precise handling
- Slightly reduced resolution and visual effects
- Better consistency during crowded races and collisions
In racing games, smoothness directly affects control confidence. Performance Mode is ideal for online races, higher difficulty events, and players who value responsiveness over visual fidelity.
Docked vs Handheld Play
GRID Legends: Deluxe Edition adapts intelligently depending on how you play. Both Graphics and Performance modes are available whether the Switch 2 is docked or in handheld mode, but docked play allows the game to push further thanks to increased output and power.
In handheld mode, the game is optimized to:
- Maintain stable performance
- Balance visuals with battery life
- Deliver clear image quality on a smaller screen
The flexibility ensures the experience feels consistent regardless of how or where you play.
Why These Modes Matter for Switch 2
The inclusion of Graphics and Performance modes represents a broader shift in how third-party developers are approaching Nintendo’s next console. Instead of heavy compromises, players are being offered choice—a hallmark of modern console gaming.
For Switch 2 owners, this sets a positive precedent:
- Greater parity with PlayStation and Xbox versions
- More control over technical preferences
- Higher expectations for future third-party releases
GRID Legends is effectively acting as an early benchmark for what’s possible on the platform.
Deluxe Edition Content at Launch
The Deluxe Edition ensures Switch 2 players receive a complete package from day one, not a trimmed-down port. The edition includes:
- The full GRID Legends experience
- Expanded career and narrative content
- Additional cars and events
- Post-launch content bundled in
This positions the Switch 2 version as a fully featured release rather than a delayed or scaled-back alternative.
A Strong Technical Showcase
Racing games are often used to showcase hardware strengths, and GRID Legends fits that role perfectly. Fast motion, detailed vehicles, dynamic lighting, and large grids of cars put real demands on a system—making the presence of dual performance modes especially meaningful.
The fact that players can choose between visual richness and smooth performance underscores the maturity of Switch 2’s development environment.
Final Thoughts
With its Graphics and Performance modes clearly detailed, GRID Legends: Deluxe Edition on Switch 2 is shaping up to be one of the platform’s most impressive third-party racing titles. The flexibility to tailor the experience ensures both casual players and competitive racers can enjoy the game on their own terms.
For anyone looking to see how far Nintendo’s next console can go with demanding, fast-paced games, GRID Legends: Deluxe Edition is quickly becoming a standout example—and a promising sign of what’s ahead for Switch 2.