**The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Anniversary Edition on Nintendo Switch 2: An Unsatisfactory Port**

On Tuesday, Bethesda unveiled the much-awaited port of *The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Anniversary Edition* for the Nintendo Switch 2, creating a buzz among fans of the beloved RPG. This latest iteration aims to elevate the experience previously offered on the original Switch. However, initial feedback suggests that while visual enhancements are evident, various performance issues and high storage demands leave players feeling disappointed.

When *Skyrim* launched on the Nintendo Switch in 2017, it was an impressive feat, demonstrating Bethesda’s capability to rework its extensive open-world RPG for a portable device. The adaptability of the Nintendo Switch enabled players to traverse the expansive realms of Tamriel while traveling. With the introduction of *Skyrim* on Switch 2, hopes were elevated for advancements on the robust new system. Graphically, the game does present improvements in model fidelity and textures, resembling updates seen in other platforms’ Anniversary Edition versions.

Nonetheless, severe issues affect this port. A major concern is the performance frame rate, which remains capped at 30 frames per second (FPS). In stark opposition, the game operates at 60FPS or more on the majority of other gaming systems. Players have voiced their frustrations on social media and forums, questioning why a nearly 12-year-old title has not taken advantage of technological progress. To make matters worse, reports suggest that the Switch 2 version experiences significant input lag, particularly in handheld mode, causing many to describe the gaming experience as almost unplayable.

Adding to the concerns of players is the astounding storage requirement of the Skyrim port on Switch 2. The game consumes a staggering 53 GB of space, notably more than its PC version, where the Special Edition occupies just 12 GB and the full Anniversary Edition needs only 25 GB. In comparison, *Skyrim* on Xbox Series X/S has a digital file size of around 32 GB. The cause of such an inflated size on Switch 2 remains uncertain, fueling speculation about potential miscalculations or issues surrounding the interaction of Bethesda’s older technology with the system’s architecture. This unusual circumstance raises further inquiries, especially when considering that *Cyberpunk 2077*, also available on Switch 2, requires just about 60 GB, yet operates at a higher frame rate and looks visually superior.

In summary, while the announcement of *Skyrim – Anniversary Edition* for Nintendo Switch 2 was met with excitement, the actual execution has fallen short of expectations. Bethesda is recognized for releasing updates and patches to enhance its games post-launch, which leaves some players optimistic for forthcoming fixes to improve performance and usability. Until such updates are made available, potential purchasers might want to approach this version of *Skyrim* with caution.