Nintendo has registered a new patent that is supposed to improve the graphics of upcoming games for the Nintendo Switch 2. In addition, the hope of some fans on remake old classics is further sparked.
What kind of patent did Nintendo register? According to Universonintendo.com, the registered patent is a new technology in which, in short, 2D and 3D graphics are combined.
Usually 3D graphics use the perspective to represent depth. Large objects are smaller and more closely appear. In its approach, however, the new patent of Nintendo refines the distance between 3D objects and uses a unique shadow technology to display the depth.
The basic idea behind the technology is that a 3D environment is processed in such a way that it looks like a 2D room and also feels like that. This not only creates new opportunities for completely new titles, but also clear opportunities to revive old classics in the modern remake robe.
At Nintendo, remakes have been part of the repertoire forever, such as the 3D remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time:
Nintendo 3DS – The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D remake trailer
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With hybrid graphics for new remakes?
Why does the patent fuel hope for old classics? Registration of a patent that focuses on a kind of “modern 2D graphic” suggests that Nintendo will focus on it with its upcoming console. This is sometimes not absurd, since the Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D remake pursued a similar graphic approach and was the best-sold game in Japan in 2024 (via gamerant).
This shows that this modern approach of a 3D-2D graphic is well received by fans. It is hardly surprising that Nintendo jumps on this train. The method is particularly suitable for old classics because they would keep their “classic” look, but would convey a more modern feeling.
For games like the titles of the Metroid series, The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap or a Link to the Past would be suitable for this technology and have always been part of Nintendo’s inventory. Just as classics such as Harvest Moon or various titles in the series around Super Mario could be offered for such a remake due to their starting positions.
However, it will probably take a while until you will hold the Nintendo Switch 2 in your hands. On April second, however, there will be new information about Nintendo’s new hybrid console. You can read all the information known so far with us: Nintendo Switch 2: Everything about release, price, play and important leaks