Borderlands 4will run at30 FPS most of the timeonNintendo Switch 2, and not evenphysical copieswill be free from a download—because, as Pitchford says, it’s “a big game.”
Borderlands 4 Launch Dates Confirmed for All Platforms
Set to launch onPC, Steam Deck, PS5, and Xbox on Aug 02, 2025, Gearbox’s CEO has now cleared up when it’s coming toSwitch 2: expect to shoot your way through the game onNintendo’s console starting October 3.
Unfortunately, there’s some bad news—because there always is. Pitchford confirmed thatdownloads will be required, even on physical editions, and that the game willmostly run at 30 FPS, albeitwith some stuttering.
This confirmation came after a fan begged him to keep the game under 64 GB so it could fit entirely on a cartridge and not require a “Game Card Key.” In response, Pitchford seemed to confirm that thephysical version of Borderlands 4 on Switch 2 will indeed come on a full cartridge, but added:“It’s a big game. There will be downloads, even for physical copies.”
Other major publishers likeSquare Enix, SEGA, and Capcomare also releasing games in this format for the console—Capcom, in particular, has been criticized for not offering true physical editions.
Cross-Play Prioritized Over Performance
At one point, Pitchford stated thatBorderlands 4 was targeting 60 FPS on Switch 2, but that goal now seems increasingly unlikely.
“It was important for us not to cut anything and to support cross-play with other platforms,” he explained when asked about the possibility of a 60 FPS mode.
“So no, most of the time it’ll hover around 30 FPS, with occasional dips during intense combat or when hosting a multiplayer session in handheld mode,” he clarified.
Finally, Pitchford addressed another controversial topic:Borderlands 3’s performance on Switch 2, which has beenheavily criticized since day one.
“Borderlands 3 wasn’t made for Switch 2,” he admitted. “I want us to revisit it and see what we can do. We need a bit of help and some time. Right now, Borderlands 4 is everything.”
In summary:Borderlands 4 willnot use a Game Card Keyon Nintendo Switch 2, will run at30 FPS (with some drops), andGearbox is committed to improving Borderlands 3’s performanceon the platform.
