The Switch 2 is Nintendo’s first console to assist HDR, however the implementation of the function leaves a lot to be desired. Here’s a have a look at why video games on the Switch 2 can wind up trying worse in HDR–and what to do to repair it.
YouTuber HDTVTest has accomplished a deep dive into the Switch 2’s HDR capabilities and settings, to find why HDR is leaving so many gamers’ video games trying washed out. He recognized quite a lot of points with the way in which Nintendo has carried out its HDR, principally coming right down to complicated UI and an absence of clear instruction.
The primary points come from the settings menu that prompts you to calibrate HDR for a brand new show. In a well-known display screen displaying two equivalent icons, gamers are requested to regulate a setting till one disappears and the opposite stays visible–which will set the utmost tone map luminance or MaxTML. HDTVTest has found that this setting solely works as designed for shows that assist HGIG tone mapping, with outcomes on non-HGIG supported units susceptible to blowing out.
The best way this setting has been carried out can be not excellent, HDTVTest factors out, with too many minor increments to select from. As a result of the distinction between every step is so minor, it leaves gamers and not using a clear selection on which of tons of of brightness steps is the fitting one for his or her show.
HDTVTest additionally picks up on the considerably difficult to search out paper white setting within the subsequent stage of configuration, which requires gamers to press an additional button to regulate. This would not be as a lot of a problem if the default configuration wasn’t set manner too excessive, which might depart photos trying flat. The best way this setting is configured additionally modifications relying on what you chose within the earlier display screen, making it harder to correctly configure your Switch 2 for HDR.
So what are you able to do to repair these points when you’re having them? First, be sure to have HGIG enabled in case your show helps it. Setting the paper white degree to its optimum setting would require some legwork, so when you’re a purist you possibly can try HDTVTest’s video for instructions. Even when you’re not fused about getting paper white to the precise proper degree, it almost definitely will should be set decrease than Nintendo’s default for the Switch 2.
And what about if you do not have HGIG? HDTVTest recommends setting the MaxTML to 1000 nits and the paper white to 200 nits–though that is simpler mentioned than accomplished if you do not have a option to view these values. Commenters on the video have identified that Cyberpunk 2077 will show your MaxTML and paper white values in its in-game settings–though when you do not already personal the sport, it is an costly option to calibrate your show.
HDTVTest additionally recommends a couple of different settings to enhance the HDR expertise, together with switching to darkish mode, setting HDR to solely kick in with appropriate software program, and disabling display screen burn-in safety.