TL;DR
Viewfinder, the mind-bending puzzle game where you manipulate photos to alter reality, is now on Nintendo Switch! While its unique premise and clever mechanics were a hit on PS5, the Switch version suffers a significant downgrade. Expect choppy frame rates and a noticeable drop in graphical fidelity compared to other platforms. The developers seem to have prioritized older Switch hardware over optimizing for the newer console, leading to a less than ideal visual experience, even in handheld mode. Discover the full details on whether this portable version is worth your time.
Having previously reviewed Viewfinder upon its release for PlayStation 5 and PC in late 2023, this review specifically addresses the newly launched version for Nintendo Switch.
Gameplay Mechanics and Premise
In Viewfinder, players manipulate images to progress through sections. Initially, participants encounter photographs which, when held before them, allow them to step into the depicted scene and continue the game. For instance, to access an elevated area, one might photograph a wall, rotate it by 30 degrees, and materialize a ramp for ascent. Should a misstep occur, players have the option to rewind time and retry.
Players are aided by gramophones providing contextual information and a mysterious cat-like companion. As the game progresses, the ability to copy existing images and capture new ones with a Polaroid camera expands the range of possible solutions.
Impressions from PlayStation 5
Upon reviewing the PlayStation 5 version, the experience was immediately captivating. It stands out as a unique puzzle game, distinct from conventional offerings. The innovative mechanic, combining the manipulation of existing photographs with the later ability to create one’s own via a Polaroid camera, presents an exceptionally clever and creative premise that warranted a top-tier evaluation.
The Switch Version – A Significant Downgrade
Unlike the versions available on PlayStation 5, PC, and the recently released Xbox Series X/S, the Switch version regrettably falls short of expectations. It appears Thunderful Games did not account for the recent release of a new Switch console this spring, as no dedicated Switch 2 version of Viewfinder has been developed, despite the current release being heavily scaled down.
The game is developed for more powerful hardware, and therefore it is perplexing to see such a poorly optimized version released for the older Switch model, especially considering the Switch 2’s capability to potentially run the same performance profile as the PlayStation 5 and PC versions.
Performance and Graphics
The FPS is locked at 30, which results in a less fluid experience for players accustomed to higher frame rates. However, the most significant drawback lies in the jagged, low-resolution graphics. While the game initially features a relatively simple visual style, on PlayStation 5, it maintained visual integrity. On the Switch, however, it represents a considerable regression.
The game operates without significant technical issues on Switch 2, but it is evident that the optimization efforts were primarily directed towards the preceding model.
Handheld Mode
In handheld mode, the experience sees a marginal improvement, however, even on the smaller display, the visual aliasing remains noticeable. This is unfortunate, as Viewfinder otherwise performs commendably in handheld mode, and the portability aspect is genuinely valuable.
Consequently, I am unable to bestow the rating of “a must-have” this time, as I did when I first reviewed Viewfinder. The decision by the developers not to create a dedicated Switch 2 version is perplexing, particularly given the significant compromises in performance and fidelity when running on older hardware.
Thunderful Games provided a review code for the purpose of this evaluation. The provision of materials by external parties does not exert editorial influence on our reviews.
