GTA Trilogy on Nintendo Switch 2: Is it worth buying?

Rockstar Games released the GTA Trilogy - The Definitive Edition, a collection of remasters of Grand Theft Auto 3, Vice City, and San Andreas, on various platforms, including the Nintendo Switch, back in 2021. Thanks to backwards compatibility, it can also be played on the recently launched Nintendo Switch 2 handheld console. It is worth noting that these three remasters are the only Grand Theft Auto titles on the original Switch, as well as the Switch 2.

So, for those who want to play Grand Theft Auto on the new Nintendo hardware, this collection is the only option. That being said, read on to find out if it is worth buying the GTA Trilogy on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Note: Some aspects of this article are subjective and reflect the writer's opinions and analysis.

Is GTA Trilogy Definitive Edition worth buying on Nintendo Switch 2?

The state in which the Grand Theft Auto Trilogy's Definitive Edition remasters were released was pretty disappointing, not just on the Switch, but on all platforms. There were several bugs, glitches, and animation issues, and even the visuals didn't reflect the characteristically distinct atmospheres the original ports of these three games had.

Fortunately, Rockstar Games released a patch for these remasters in November 2024 that fixed most of their issues and added a Classic Lighting option that made them look closer to the originals. The patch covered the Nintendo Switch as well, so it should be noted that the GTA Trilogy is good enough on it.

An official screenshot from Grand Theft Auto Vice City - The Definitive Edition (Image via Rockstar Games)

Check out: Is Grand Theft Auto 6 confirmed for Nintendo Switch 2?

It is also worth noting that Rockstar hasn't released any Switch 2-specific patch for the remasters, so what you'll be playing on it is the same version as its predecessor. That said, the GTA Trilogy Definitive Edition feels a lot more stable on the Nintendo Switch 2 in comparison. It is able to maintain a solid 30 FPS on the 2025 console, whereas one may witness occasional dips while playing it on the original Switch.

Additionally, loading times are noticeably faster on the new handheld, which contributes to improving the overall experience. The Switch 2 also boasts a slightly bigger screen (with 1080p resolution) than its predecessor, which is another factor that could make a positive impact based on a user's preferences.

Also check: Many players reportedly returned to the GTA Trilogy Definitive Edition post-update 1.112

Is GTA Trilogy worth buying on Nintendo Switch 2? Final verdict

If you haven't played the Grand Theft Auto Trilogy Definitive Edition before, and Nintendo Switch 2 is the only accessible console, then yes, the game is worth buying. Those who have already played it on the original Switch may also feel an improvement in the experience on the new hardware.

Check out more related content:

About the author

Suyash is an Esports and Gaming journalist at Sportskeeda who specializes in Rockstar Games' GTA franchise. Suyash uses in-depth research and knowledge of his immense experience with the game series to ensure readers have access to the most reliable information. His insightful content pieces have raked in more than 5 million views in just a little over a year's time.

Suyash holds a B.Tech degree and ventured into the world of gaming at a young age through the Prince of Persia Sands of Time trilogy. However, upon encountering GTA Vice City’s 1980s aesthetic, music, and vintage cars, he became enamored with the game, leading him to explore the rest of the franchise.

Suyash prefers solo titles to multiplayer, especially ones with a well-crafted story and character arcs. He admires journalist Jason Schreier for the respect he commands in the industry and the reliability of his news pieces. To ensure the accuracy of his own pieces, he checks multiple reputable sources and insiders.

If he were to recommend a game to a skeptic, it would be Naughty Dog’s Uncharted series. When he’s not roaming the streets of Los Santos in GTA V, you can find him playing football, watching movies, or working out.

Know More

Edited by Niladri Roy