Warframe Developer Cites Dev Kit Shortage for Nintendo Switch 2 Delay

Digital Extremes, the developer behind the popular action game Warframe, has attributed the absence of a dedicated port for the Nintendo Switch 2 to a significant backlog in development kits. During a recent press Q&A ahead of TennoCon 2025, Steve Sinclair, the studio's CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the potential enhancements a Switch 2 version could offer but lamented the challenges posed by limited access to necessary hardware.

The issue surfaced following the Switch 2's launch on June 5, 2025, which introduced features such as improved graphics and Joy-Con mouse functionality. While Warframe remains playable on the new console through backward compatibility, players are eager for a bespoke version that could leverage the Switch 2’s capabilities, including faster load times and enhanced graphics.

According to Sinclair, "Our tech team is so excited to take advantage of the high-speed cores and the other really cool features of it. There’s just such a backlog for dev kits. So, yeah, if you know anyone… just one, that’s all it would take." This statement highlights the mounting frustration developers face as they wait for access to the tools necessary for creating optimized titles for the new platform.

The significance of this delay extends beyond just Warframe. Other developers, including Ant Workshop and Fellow Traveller Games, have also voiced concerns about the scarcity of dev kits. A report from GamesIndustry.biz revealed that many indie and third-party developers struggle to initiate development on Switch 2 games due to similar access issues. Sinclair noted that Digital Extremes is not alone in this predicament, pointing to a broader industry challenge.

As players clamor for new titles to expand their gaming libraries, the industry faces a critical juncture. The Switch 2's launch lineup, although bolstered by third-party titles such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition, lacks the diverse array of games that typically accompanies a new console launch. Sinclair's comments resonate with the sentiments of these developers, as they collectively await the opportunity to bring their games to the platform.

The current landscape raises questions about the future of game development on the Switch 2. The backlog of dev kits is not just a logistical concern; it reflects a growing need for streamlined processes in the gaming industry to ensure that developers can meet consumer demand effectively. As Digital Extremes and other companies navigate these challenges, the gaming community remains hopeful for significant updates in the near future.

In conclusion, while Digital Extremes eagerly anticipates the potential of a Warframe port on the Nintendo Switch 2, the ongoing backlog of development kits poses a significant hurdle. With the gaming community's eyes turned towards future developments, the resolution of these supply chain issues will be crucial for enriching the Switch 2's game library and maintaining momentum in the market.