Ah, Crysis. The game that made your PC sweat like it was running a marathon just to play a video game. Fast forward over a decade, and we now have Crysis Remastered on the Nintendo Switch, a console that typically runs games like Animal Crossing rather than graphically intense shooters. The question is: can it run Crysis, or has it stumbled while attempting to take a leisurely jog?
In this game, you take on the role of ‘Nomad’, a soldier with a fancy suit that makes him a Swiss army knife of warfare. With four modes—armor, cloaking, speed, and strength—you can choose to go in guns blazing or sneak around like a cat burglar. Crysis offers various weapons (assault rifles, alien ice guns, etc.) and vehicles (if you've ever dreamt of being a tank driver in a jungle, this is your moment). The gameplay is a mix of AI that responds to your every move, from reckless gunfire to stealthy takedowns. Of course, it's not all fun and games; you will get mauled by aliens, the Korean army, and maybe even your own bad decisions.
Graphics on the Switch are, well, like bringing a dessert to a potluck and finding out everyone else brought a gourmet feast. The game looks decent, especially for a Switch title, but when compared to the original PC release, it’s like watching an old VHS tape after seeing an IMAX film. There are enough tweaks to give you some eye candy—ray tracing, improved lighting effects, and enhanced texture fidelity—but do not expect jaw-dropping visuals; the Switch isn’t exactly a powerhouse. Still, the lush environments do a good job of disguising a bit of the graphical wear and tear.
Crysis Remastered on the Nintendo Switch provides an intriguing experience that both delights and disappoints. While it picks up the essence of the original game, the transition to a handheld console has its hurdles. If you’re a die-hard fan or merely curious how your beloved game translates onto the Switch, it’s worth checking out. Just be prepared for some graphic compromises when compared to the PC version. So, can it run Crysis? Sure, but let’s just say it’s more of a steady stroll than a sprint.