Dauntless has attracted a wide range of players thanks to its cooperative gameplay, engaging monster-hunting mechanics, and cross-platform support. With its stylized graphics and gameplay that resembles popular titles like Monster Hunter, many fans often ask if Dauntless is available on the Nintendo Switch. Given the popularity of handheld gaming and the Switch’s versatility, this is an important question for gamers who want to enjoy the Dauntless experience on the go. Understanding platform availability, performance, and gameplay experience on Switch can help players make an informed decision.
Availability of Dauntless on Nintendo Switch
Official Release on the Switch
Yes, Dauntless is officially available on the Nintendo Switch. The game launched on the platform in December 2019 and brought the full monster-hunting experience to Nintendo’s hybrid console. Players can download it for free from the Nintendo eShop and join the hunt alongside others playing on different platforms. This availability has significantly expanded the game’s audience and accessibility.
Free-to-Play and Cross-Platform
Dauntless on Switch is part of the same free-to-play model as other versions. Players do not need to purchase the game and can enjoy a large portion of its content without spending money. Additionally, the game supports cross-platform play and cross-progression. This means that if you’re already playing Dauntless on PC, PlayStation, or Xbox, you can log in on the Switch and continue your progress without missing a beat.
Performance of Dauntless on the Switch
Graphical Adjustments
To ensure smooth gameplay on the Switch’s hardware, the developers have optimized Dauntless with reduced textures and simpler graphical effects. While the visuals are not as detailed as on high-end PCs or consoles, the game still retains its core aesthetic and remains visually appealing in handheld mode.
Frame Rate and Load Times
Dauntless runs at around 30 frames per second on the Switch, which is acceptable for a game of this genre. Players can expect occasional frame drops, especially in areas with lots of visual effects or when fighting large Behemoths. Load times are longer compared to more powerful platforms, but they are manageable for casual gameplay.
Gameplay Experience on Switch
Controls and Interface
The controls on the Nintendo Switch are well adapted for both handheld and docked play. While some users may find certain inputs less responsive than on other platforms, the game still feels fluid overall. The interface has been resized for the smaller screen, making it easier to navigate menus and read in-game text while playing in handheld mode.
Online Connectivity
Since Dauntless is an online game, a stable internet connection is required even on the Switch. Players can hunt solo or in teams of up to four, with matchmaking options available. The cross-play feature works seamlessly, allowing Switch users to party up with friends on other consoles or PC. However, playing in handheld mode over Wi-Fi can sometimes lead to slight network instability if the connection is weak.
Advantages of Playing Dauntless on Switch
Portability
One of the main reasons to play Dauntless on Nintendo Switch is its portability. The ability to hunt Behemoths while traveling, during breaks, or anywhere away from a traditional setup is a major plus. This makes it easy for players to complete daily quests, farm resources, or simply enjoy quick hunts while on the move.
Shared Progress Across Platforms
Dauntless’s cross-progression system means players don’t have to start over on the Switch. You can use your Epic Games account to log in and sync your progress, including gear, character levels, and cosmetics. This flexibility is especially appealing for players who game on multiple devices.
Challenges of the Switch Version
Visual Downgrades
Although the game is fully playable on Switch, it does come with visual compromises. Players used to high-end graphics on other platforms may notice the drop in texture quality and lighting effects. However, these sacrifices are necessary to maintain performance on the less powerful hardware.
Smaller Player Base in Some Regions
Depending on your location, you might find fewer Switch players online compared to other platforms. Fortunately, cross-play compensates for this by giving access to a much larger community, ensuring that matchmaking times remain short and co-op play stays active.
Tips for Optimizing Dauntless on Switch
- Play in docked mode for improved stability and better visibility on larger screens.
- Use a wired internet connection if possible for more reliable multiplayer sessions.
- Adjust brightness and HUD settings for easier visibility during hunts in handheld mode.
- Keep the Switch system updated for the best performance and compatibility with Dauntless patches.
How to Get Started on Switch
Creating an Epic Games Account
To take full advantage of cross-play and cross-progression, players should create or link their Epic Games account when launching Dauntless for the first time on Switch. This step ensures that your progress is saved across platforms and unlocks additional rewards tied to your account.
Downloading and Installing
Dauntless is available for free download through the Nintendo eShop. The game’s initial install size is around 13 GB, so make sure you have enough space on your Switch’s internal memory or microSD card. Once downloaded, simply launch the game, log in, and start hunting.
Community and Support
Active Player Base
Despite being released a few years ago, Dauntless continues to enjoy an active player base. Frequent updates, seasonal events, and new Behemoth additions help keep the gameplay fresh. The community is also welcoming, with many players willing to team up with newcomers, especially on Switch.
Developer Commitment
The developers, Phoenix Labs, have shown consistent support for all platforms, including Switch. Patch notes are regularly shared, and bugs are addressed through updates. This ongoing support means that Switch players can expect to enjoy the same content as users on other platforms without delays or cutbacks.
So, is Dauntless on Switch? The answer is a definite yes. The game is fully available and playable on the Nintendo Switch, complete with cross-platform support, shared progression, and all the same content found on other versions. While there are some technical compromises due to hardware limitations, the portability and accessibility make it an excellent option for players who want to hunt monsters on the go. Whether you’re a returning player or a newcomer, Dauntless on Switch delivers a rewarding and cooperative monster-hunting experience that’s worth exploring.