Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus - Switch Review

Hey guys! Let's dive into Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus on the Nintendo Switch! This review will cover everything you need to know about this action-packed game on a portable console. Is it a worthy port or a compromised experience? Let's find out!

What is Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus?

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is the sequel to Wolfenstein: The New Order, continuing the story of William "B.J." Blazkowicz as he fights against the Nazi regime in an alternate 1960s America. The game is known for its intense first-person shooter gameplay, a compelling narrative filled with memorable characters, and over-the-top action sequences. Originally released on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, the game was later ported to the Nintendo Switch, offering players the chance to experience this thrilling adventure on the go.

The storyline of Wolfenstein II is one of its strongest aspects. Set in a Nazi-occupied America, the game presents a grim and unsettling vision of what could have been. The developers at MachineGames have crafted a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking, exploring themes of resistance, oppression, and the fight for freedom. B.J. Blazkowicz, the protagonist, is portrayed as a complex and multifaceted character, haunted by his past and driven by a fierce determination to liberate his country. His internal struggles and personal relationships add depth to the overall narrative, making it more than just a simple action-packed shooter.

The characters in Wolfenstein II are another highlight of the game. From the hardened veterans of the resistance movement to the ruthless Nazi commanders, each character is well-developed and memorable. The interactions between B.J. and his allies are filled with humor, camaraderie, and emotional moments, creating a sense of connection and investment in their struggle. On the other hand, the villains are portrayed as cruel and sadistic, embodying the oppressive nature of the Nazi regime. Their presence adds a layer of tension and danger to the game, making each encounter feel meaningful and impactful.

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus features a variety of gameplay mechanics that contribute to its immersive and engaging experience. The game offers a wide range of weapons, each with its own unique characteristics and upgrades. From classic firearms like shotguns and rifles to futuristic energy weapons, players have plenty of options to choose from when taking on the Nazi forces. The combat is fast-paced and visceral, encouraging players to use a combination of stealth and aggression to overcome their enemies. Additionally, the game includes a perk system that allows players to customize B.J.'s abilities and playstyle, adding depth and replayability to the gameplay experience.

Graphics and Performance on Switch

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: the graphics and performance of Wolfenstein II on the Nintendo Switch. Porting a graphically intensive game like this to the Switch requires compromises, and that's evident here. The visual fidelity is noticeably lower compared to other platforms. Textures are less detailed, and the overall image appears softer. However, the development team at Panic Button did an admirable job optimizing the game for the Switch's hardware.

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus on the Nintendo Switch is a technical marvel, considering the hardware limitations of the console. Panic Button, the studio responsible for porting the game, has managed to squeeze a remarkable amount of detail and performance out of the Switch. However, to achieve this, certain compromises had to be made, particularly in the graphics department. The textures are noticeably less detailed compared to the versions on more powerful platforms, and the overall resolution has been lowered to maintain a stable frame rate. Despite these compromises, the game remains visually appealing, thanks to its art style and the overall atmosphere that the developers have created.

The frame rate is generally stable, targeting 30fps, but there can be occasional dips during intense action sequences. While this doesn't ruin the experience, it's something to be aware of. These dips can be more noticeable in handheld mode, where the screen is smaller and any performance issues are magnified. However, overall, the game is still very playable and enjoyable on the Switch. The fact that you can play Wolfenstein II on a portable device is a significant achievement in itself.

One of the key factors that contribute to the stable performance of Wolfenstein II on the Switch is the dynamic resolution scaling. This technology allows the game to adjust the resolution on the fly, depending on the demands of the scene. In moments of intense action, the resolution may drop to maintain a consistent frame rate, while in less demanding areas, it can increase to provide a sharper image. This dynamic scaling helps to ensure that the game remains playable and enjoyable, even during the most chaotic battles.

Furthermore, the developers have implemented a number of other optimization techniques to improve the performance of the game on the Switch. These include reducing the level of detail in certain areas, simplifying the lighting effects, and optimizing the code to take advantage of the Switch's unique hardware architecture. All of these efforts have contributed to a surprisingly smooth and stable experience, considering the complexity of the game and the limitations of the console.

Gameplay and Controls

The gameplay of Wolfenstein II remains largely intact on the Switch. The fast-paced, gun-blazing action is as thrilling as ever. The controls are well-mapped to the Joy-Cons, and while they might take some getting used to, they are responsive and functional. Playing with the Pro Controller is definitely recommended for a more comfortable experience, especially during long play sessions. The ability to play in handheld mode is a huge plus, allowing you to take the fight against the Nazis anywhere you go.

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus retains its core gameplay mechanics on the Nintendo Switch, providing players with the same intense and engaging first-person shooter experience as on other platforms. The fast-paced combat, the diverse arsenal of weapons, and the strategic use of cover are all present and accounted for. Whether you prefer to go in guns blazing or take a more stealthy approach, the game offers plenty of options to suit your playstyle. The level design is also excellent, with intricate environments that encourage exploration and reward players for thinking creatively.

The controls in Wolfenstein II on the Switch are well-implemented, making use of the Joy-Cons' motion controls for aiming and other actions. While some players may prefer to use the traditional analog sticks, the motion controls offer a level of precision and responsiveness that can enhance the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, the game supports the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, which provides a more comfortable and ergonomic alternative to the Joy-Cons. Regardless of your preferred control scheme, Wolfenstein II on the Switch offers a smooth and intuitive control experience.

One of the key aspects of the gameplay in Wolfenstein II is the dual-wielding mechanic, which allows players to equip two weapons simultaneously. This adds a layer of depth and strategy to the combat, as players must carefully choose which weapons to use in each situation. Whether you prefer to dual-wield shotguns for maximum firepower or combine a rifle with a grenade launcher for versatility, the game offers plenty of options to customize your loadout. The dual-wielding mechanic also encourages experimentation, as players discover new and effective combinations of weapons.

Sound and Audio

The sound design in Wolfenstein II is excellent, and it translates well to the Switch. The booming gunfire, the crunch of metal, and the voice acting all contribute to the immersive atmosphere. Wearing headphones is highly recommended to fully appreciate the soundscape. The soundtrack is also fantastic, blending intense orchestral scores with rock and metal elements, perfectly complementing the on-screen action.

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus features a stellar sound design that enhances the overall immersive experience. The game's audio is just as impactful on the Nintendo Switch as it is on other platforms. The visceral sound of gunfire, the guttural snarls of enemies, and the booming explosions all contribute to the intensity of the combat. The attention to detail in the sound design is remarkable, with subtle nuances that bring the game's world to life. Whether you're sneaking through the dimly lit corridors of a Nazi base or engaging in a full-blown firefight, the sound design in Wolfenstein II will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The voice acting in Wolfenstein II is top-notch, with each character delivering a memorable and compelling performance. B.J. Blazkowicz, the protagonist, is brought to life by actor Brian Bloom, who perfectly captures the character's inner turmoil and determination. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with each actor delivering a nuanced and believable performance. The dialogue is well-written and engaging, adding depth and complexity to the game's characters and storyline. Whether you're listening to the heartfelt speeches of the resistance fighters or the chilling pronouncements of the Nazi commanders, the voice acting in Wolfenstein II will leave a lasting impression.

The soundtrack in Wolfenstein II is a perfect complement to the game's intense and action-packed gameplay. Composed by Mick Gordon, the soundtrack blends elements of heavy metal, industrial, and electronic music to create a unique and adrenaline-pumping soundscape. The music dynamically adapts to the on-screen action, ramping up during intense firefights and becoming more subdued during moments of stealth or exploration. The soundtrack is not only effective in enhancing the game's atmosphere but also enjoyable to listen to on its own. Whether you're a fan of heavy metal or simply appreciate well-crafted video game music, the soundtrack in Wolfenstein II is sure to impress.

Final Verdict

Overall, Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus on the Nintendo Switch is a remarkable achievement. Despite the graphical compromises, the core gameplay, compelling story, and fantastic sound design remain intact. If you're willing to overlook some visual downgrades, you'll find an incredibly fun and engaging shooter that you can take with you on the go. It's not the definitive version of the game, but it's a very good one, earning a solid recommendation. If you've never played Wolfenstein II before, the Switch version is a totally acceptable way to experience the game. If you own it on another platform, the portability might be enough to warrant a second purchase.

Score: 8.5/10