Is Dying Light Worth Buying on Switch? A Comprehensive Review
Yes, Dying Light is absolutely worth buying on the Nintendo Switch, particularly if you value a feature-rich, portable gaming experience. Despite some technical compromises, this port is a remarkable achievement that delivers the complete Dying Light package on the go. You’re getting the “Platinum version”, which includes all the DLC, full multiplayer functionality, and a surprisingly solid performance considering the Switch’s hardware. If the idea of battling hordes of infected while parkouring through a zombie-infested city, all in the palm of your hands, appeals to you, then this is a must-have title.
The Impressive Portability Factor
One of the biggest selling points for Dying Light on Switch is undoubtedly its portability. The ability to take this expansive open-world adventure anywhere is a game-changer. The original console versions of Dying Light are tied to a television, limiting when and where you can play, but the Switch version lets you enjoy this game at home, during commutes, or while traveling. The portability almost makes you forget about the minor compromises in visual fidelity and frame rate compared to more powerful consoles. This level of freedom alone is enough to convince many gamers that it’s a worthwhile purchase.
Technical Performance: A Balancing Act
While not reaching the graphical heights of PlayStation or Xbox versions, Dying Light on Switch manages to be remarkably competent. The article you provided highlights that the graphics are “ninety percent as good as on the other machines,” which is a significant achievement. The game runs at a capped 30FPS, and while some might prefer the smoother 60FPS experience found on other platforms, the game is still wonderfully playable. There are occasional frame drops, especially during intense combat scenarios, but they’re not frequent enough to detract from the overall experience. The resolution dynamically scales, ranging between 720p and 1080p, maintaining a reasonable level of clarity whether in docked or handheld mode. This solid performance makes it a true “miracle port.”
Content and Features
Dying Light on Switch doesn’t cut corners on content. You receive the entire package, including the base game and all of its DLC. This means hundreds of hours of gameplay, including a compelling campaign, challenging side missions, and a host of activities to complete. On top of that, the game has fully intact local and online co-op, allowing you to team up with friends to fight through the zombie apocalypse.
Additional Features
The Switch version also incorporates some platform-specific features, such as gyro controls. These can be a great alternative or supplement to traditional joystick aiming, and they add another layer of control for those who enjoy them. The inclusion of all this content and the added flexibility in control options solidify the Switch version as a great value.
Story and Gameplay
Dying Light excels in providing a heart-pounding mix of parkour and zombie survival. Set in the fictional city of Harran, you play as Kyle Crane, an operative sent to infiltrate the city and uncover its secrets. The storyline is engaging, with memorable characters and a chilling atmosphere that effectively captures the zombie apocalypse scenario. The gameplay is centered around first-person parkour, which allows you to traverse the city with agility and speed. The mix of melee combat, crafting, and open-world exploration is well-executed. The game also features a day-night cycle that dramatically impacts the difficulty, with zombies becoming much more aggressive and deadly at night.
Why Dying Light 1 is Generally Preferred
Many in the community believe that Dying Light 1 is the overall superior game compared to its sequel. It’s praised for its better gameplay mechanics, more memorable characters, and a genuinely scary atmosphere. The original game also offers a greater variety of weapons, and the beloved horde-attracting guns. While Dying Light 2 offers its own improvements and additions, the first game’s focused and refined experience often wins over fans. For newcomers or fans looking to experience the definitive Dying Light experience, the first game is often the best place to start.
Value and Final Verdict
When considering if Dying Light on Switch is worth purchasing, it comes down to what you’re looking for in a game. If portability is a high priority and you don’t mind the slight technical compromises, this is an excellent purchase. The complete package of content, solid gameplay mechanics, and added features like gyro controls, all on a portable console, provides an exceptional value.
Dying Light on Switch is one of the best ports we’ve seen on Nintendo Switch. The compromises are minor and do not significantly impact the gameplay. The sheer amount of content, combined with the flexibility of playing on the go, makes it a compelling offer. If you’re a fan of zombie games, first-person survival, or just looking for a substantial adventure on the Nintendo Switch, Dying Light is definitely a game to pick up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Dying Light on Switch a full port of the original game?
Yes, the Nintendo Switch version of Dying Light is a full port of the original game, including all available DLC and multiplayer features.
2. Does Dying Light on Switch have multiplayer?
Yes, the Switch version fully supports both local and online cooperative multiplayer.
3. What is the frame rate of Dying Light on Switch?
The game runs at a capped 30FPS on the Nintendo Switch, with occasional frame rate fluctuations during intense moments.
4. What resolution does Dying Light run at on Switch?
The resolution dynamically scales between 720p in handheld mode and up to 1080p when docked.
5. How long does it take to complete Dying Light on Switch?
The main story campaign takes roughly 17.5 hours, while 100% completion can take upwards of 58 hours.
6. Does the Switch version have all the DLC from other platforms?
Yes, the Platinum Edition on Switch includes all previously released DLC.
7. Is Dying Light 1 better than Dying Light 2?
Many fans consider Dying Light 1 to be superior due to its tighter gameplay, more engaging characters, and overall better horror atmosphere.
8. Is Dying Light an open-world game?
Yes, Dying Light is set in a large open-world environment called Harran, which is divided into the Slums and Old Town.
9. Why is the digital version of Dying Light not available in Germany?
The digital version of Dying Light is banned in Germany due to strict content regulations, where the European eShop is officially registered, affecting digital distribution in many European countries and others like Australia and New Zealand. This does not impact physical copies.
10. Are there guns in Dying Light 1?
Yes, firearms can be found in key locations within the game world, becoming more common as the player progresses and levels up.
11. Is Dying Light a horror game?
Yes, Dying Light is considered a survival horror video game, blending elements of action and exploration within a terrifying zombie-filled environment.
12. Is Dying Light suitable for younger players?
While the game contains mature themes, gore, and violence, it is often recommended for players 13 years old and up.
13. Is Dying Light 1 harder than Dying Light 2?
Dying Light 2 is generally perceived as more challenging than the first game, with gameplay mechanics that require adapting to new combat and parkour styles.
14. Is Dying Light worth it in 2023?
Yes, Dying Light remains worth playing in 2023, especially with consistent updates and a strong community. The Switch version provides a valuable way to experience the game on the go.
15. Should I start with Dying Light 1 or 2?
While both games can be enjoyed individually, it’s generally recommended to start with Dying Light 1 to experience the story’s setup and the engaging narrative, characters, and mechanics.