2025 hasn’t been an easy year for fans of the RPG shooter genre, and with Warframe delayed for the Nintendo Switch 2, one might think this year truly is cursed in regards to timely releases – or the lack thereof.
While the sci-fi action RPG is currently playable on Switch 2 via backward compatibility, the dedicated next-gen version is facing delays. The reason? Digital Extremes still hasn’t received a development kit from Nintendo.
The developers confirmed at TennoCon 2025 that they’re eager to deliver a custom build designed to take full advantage of the Switch 2’s upgraded specs. From faster processors and enhanced memory to better graphics performance, the Switch 2 offers far more horsepower than its predecessor. But without a dev kit, none of that power can be tapped into.
Why the Dev Kit Delay Is a Big Deal
For game studios, a dev kit is the starting line. It allows the team to create, test, and optimize a version of the game built for a specific system. Without one, developers are limited to retrofitting current versions through compatibility layers. That means Warframe on Switch 2 runs, but it doesn’t shine.
Digital Extremes is ready to build a fully optimized version with faster load times, smoother frame rates, and better graphical fidelity – but the process can’t begin until they get the hardware. It’s a frustrating bottleneck, especially for a studio known for regularly updating its game across multiple platforms.
What the Upgraded Version Could Offer and Why Warframe Delayed isn’t bad
A native Warframe build on Switch 2 could significantly enhance the overall experience. The developers are targeting visual improvements, such as sharper textures, more dynamic lighting, and improved particle effects. Faster load times would also make mission hopping more fluid, a key feature for a fast-paced looter-shooter.
On top of visual upgrades, there’s potential for better UI scaling on handheld mode, new control configurations using Joy-Con features, and possibly even enhanced haptics. A native version would bring Warframe on par with its console and PC counterparts – something players have wanted since the Switch port first launched.
Dev Kit Backlog: A Widespread Problem
Digital Extremes isn’t alone. Many other developers have reportedly been stuck in the same queue. Nintendo appears to be prioritizing AAA studios and first-party developers for early access, which leaves smaller and mid-sized teams waiting their turn.
This delay is affecting how quickly we’ll see optimized third-party games on the new system. Even major titles have faced setbacks, and it’s impacting content roadmaps across the board. If dev kits don’t roll out more widely soon, the Switch 2’s early library might feel a bit too familiar for too long.
What Warframe Players Should Expect in the Meantime
If you’re currently playing Warframe on Switch 2, the backward-compatible version is functional, but certainly not ideal. Some users have reported occasional stability issues, and load times haven’t improved much, if those reports can be believed, that is. If performance is a top priority, you may want to consider playing on another platform until the native version drops.
We believe that Digital Extremes is fully committed to delivering the optimized build – call it good faith. Once the dev kit is in their hands, development is expected to move fast. A late 2025 or early 2026 launch window seems realistic if the kit arrives soon.
In the meantime, overly enthusiastic Warframe players can look forward to the next big content update on all platforms. And when that Switch 2 version finally arrives? You can expect a major leap forward in both visuals and performance, making an already excellent title even more…excellent.