Mortal Kombat 1: 'Too Big' For Switch?

The Switch version of Mortal Kombat 1 has faced much criticism for its technical shortcomings compared to other platforms like PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. Digital Foundry's deep dive analysis reveals the full extent of the compromises made on the Switch to run on the portable hardware. Here is a detailed summary of comparisons:

• Install size is 35.3GB on Switch vs. 114GB on PS5. Switch uses lower bitrate resolution for pre-rendered cutscenes to save space.
• Loading times are much longer on Switch - 15 seconds to get to character select vs. instant on PS5. 40 seconds of load time to get into a fight vs. 6 seconds on PS5.
• Resolution is dynamic 756p docked/720p handheld on Switch vs 4K/1800p on PS5. Visual settings like textures, effects, and lighting are downgraded on Switch.
• Background animations and details are often removed on Switch. The PS5 version has a richer environment and visuals.
• Facial and mouth animations are lacking in cutscenes on Switch. Some visual bugs, like animation sync issues, are only on Switch.
• Cloth and water physics enabled on Switch but simplified. Some background physics is disabled on Switch.
• Gameplay frame rate is unstable on Switch, with drops below 60fps when cameo assists are used. PS5 maintains 60fps gameplay.
• Cutscenes capped at 30fps on Switch with frame pacing issues. PS5 cutscenes run smoothly at 30fps.
• Overall, PS5 delivers massively improved visuals, loading, stability and performance over the Switch version. The switch port needs optimization work.

The analysis lays bare the flaws holding back the Switch version of Mortal Kombat 1 from delivering the same level of polished visuals and smooth 60fps gameplay as the other platforms. You can check out the video from Digital Foundry covering these details below.