Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles 2 Switch 2 Review – A Nearly Perfect 60 FPS Upgrade Held Back by Online Matchmaking

Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is a considerably better experience on Nintendo Switch 2, especially for players who found the original Switch version’s performance limiting. The previous release was capped at 30 FPS, which made its flashy combat enjoyable but prevented the game from delivering the smoothness expected from an arena fighter.

The Switch 2 version addresses that problem impressively. During combat tests using characters such as Muichiro Tokito and Entertainment District Tanjiro, the upgraded version maintained a near-perfect 60 FPS. Even during extended combos, Ultimate Arts, and sequences involving multiple characters, performance remained remarkably consistent.

This is particularly impressive considering how much happens during battles. Players can switch between characters instantly, call in support fighters, and unleash elaborate attacks with numerous visual effects on screen. The original Switch version handled these sequences at a stable 30 FPS, but the improved version makes combat feel considerably smoother and more responsive.

The upgrade also comes free for existing Nintendo Switch owners, making it an easy recommendation for players who already own the game.

Sharper Visuals and Faster Loading Make a Noticeable Difference

Performance is not the only improvement. The Switch 2 version features a noticeable resolution upgrade, making character models, environments, and special attacks look considerably clearer.

The difference is particularly apparent during Dual Ultimate Arts, where the original Switch version could look noticeably blurry. The upgraded release presents these cinematic attacks with much sharper details, allowing the game’s anime-inspired visual style to stand out.

There are also smaller presentation improvements. Character-versus screens now feature animated character poses and a moving versus symbol, replacing the static presentation found in the original version. Loading times have also improved, although they were already reasonably quick on the original hardware.

Since The Hinokami Chronicles 2 uses a cel-shaded art style, the visual upgrade is not a complete graphical overhaul. However, the higher resolution and smoother animations make the Switch 2 version feel much closer to the intended experience.

Online Multiplayer Is the Biggest Weakness

Unfortunately, the improved performance does not solve the game’s biggest problem: finding online opponents. During testing, neither Casual nor Ranked matchmaking managed to find a match. This made it difficult to judge whether the Switch 2 version has improved the online experience beyond its technical upgrades.

The problem appears to extend beyond Nintendo’s player base. The reviewer’s Steam check also showed fewer than 70 concurrent players at the time, suggesting that the game’s online community is relatively small. While this figure is only a snapshot, it helps explain why matchmaking can be difficult.

There is cross-generation support, allowing Switch 2 players to challenge people on the original Switch. However, SEGA confirms that matches against original Switch users run at 30 FPS. Players can also restrict matchmaking to Switch 2 users if they prefer to avoid that performance difference. A Nintendo Switch Online subscription is required for online VS Mode.

This leaves the game in an unusual position. Its combat feels excellent at 60 FPS, but players looking for a fighting game they can regularly enjoy online may struggle to find opponents. Joining an active community or arranging matches with friends is likely to be a more reliable option than depending on random matchmaking.

Verdict: The Best Way to Play the Game on Nintendo Switch

Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is a much more satisfying experience on Switch 2. The move from 30 FPS to a remarkably consistent 60 FPS makes a substantial difference during combat, while sharper visuals and quicker loading improve the presentation.

The biggest disappointment is the online community. The inability to find opponents during testing makes it difficult to recommend the game to anyone primarily interested in competitive multiplayer. However, fans who enjoy the story, character roster, and local battles will find plenty to appreciate.

The fact that existing Switch owners can upgrade for free makes this an especially worthwhile improvement. It is the version the original hardware deserved from the beginning.