Having previously reviewed Viewfinder upon its release for Playstation 5 and PC in late 2023, this analysis will primarily focus on the newly launched version for Nintendo Switch.

Gameplay Mechanics and Premise

In Viewfinder, players utilize images to progress through environmental puzzles. Initially, the core mechanic involves discovering photographs, which, when positioned in the environment, allow players to physically enter the depicted scene. For example, to access an elevated area, one might photograph a wall, rotate the image 30 degrees, and materialize it as a functional ramp. The game also provides a time-rewind feature, allowing players to rectify mistakes and experiment with solutions.

Assisting players are informational gramophones and a mysterious feline companion. As the game progresses, players gain the ability to replicate existing images and capture new ones with a Polaroid camera, significantly expanding the range of puzzle-solving opportunities.

Impressions from Playstation 5

Upon reviewing the game on Playstation 5, the experience proved captivating from the outset. It distinguishes itself as a remarkably unique puzzle game, offering mechanics unlike anything previously encountered. The evolution from manipulating pre-existing photographs to capturing player-generated images presents an exceptionally clever and creative premise that readily warranted a high commendation.

The Switch Version – A Clear Downgrade

In stark contrast to its counterparts on Playstation 5, PC, and the recently launched Xbox Series X/S, the Nintendo Switch version regrettably presents significant compromises. Thunderful Games appears to have overlooked the recent release of a new Switch console this spring, consequently not developing a dedicated Switch 2 version of Viewfinder, despite the currently available iteration being heavily scaled back for older hardware.

The game’s development for more powerful hardware makes the release of such a poorly optimized version for the older Switch model particularly perplexing, especially given that the Switch 2 is demonstrably capable of running the title at parity with its Playstation 5 and PC counterparts.

Performance and Graphics

The FPS is capped at 30, leading to a noticeably less fluid experience for players accustomed to higher frame rates. More concerning, however, are the pronounced visual artifacts, including jagged edges and a significantly reduced resolution. While the game’s intrinsic visual style is relatively minimalist and maintained a polished appearance on Playstation 5, its presentation on the Switch represents a considerable graphical regression.

While the game performs capably on Switch 2, it is evident that the optimization efforts were directed primarily towards the older Switch model.

Handheld Mode

In handheld mode, the experience sees a marginal improvement, though even on the smaller display, the graphical fidelity remains compromised by jagged edges. This is particularly unfortunate, as Viewfinder otherwise functions effectively in handheld mode, and its inherent portability is a highly valued aspect.

Consequently, it is not possible to bestow the same “must-have” recommendation as was awarded to the initial Viewfinder release. The developer’s decision not to create a dedicated Switch 2 version is perplexing, particularly given the substantial compromises incurred when running on older hardware.

Thunderful Games provided a review code for this assessment. The provider of the material has no editorial influence on our reviews.