Minecraft Dungeons Switch: Complete Review and Performance Guide

Minecraft Dungeons came to Nintendo Switch in 2020. The dungeon crawler runs on Switch hardware. But how well does it perform?

This complete review covers everything. Performance issues. Graphics quality. Multiplayer options. Whether it is worth buying on Switch.

If you are considering Minecraft Dungeons for Switch, read this first.

What Is Minecraft Dungeons?

Minecraft Dungeons is an action RPG dungeon crawler. Think Diablo, but set in the Minecraft universe.

You explore dungeons. Fight familiar Minecraft enemies. Collect loot and weapons. Level up your character through enchantments.

The game has no mining or building. It focuses purely on combat and exploration.

How Does Minecraft Dungeons Run on Switch?

Performance on Switch has both strengths and weaknesses.

1. Docked Mode Performance

In docked mode, the game runs at 1080p. Graphics look sharp. Character details are visible. Armor and weapons show good detail.

However, framerate drops happen frequently. When multiple enemies appear on screen, performance suffers. Spell effects make it worse.

The framerate can drop significantly during busy combat. This is noticeable but not game-breaking.

2. Handheld Mode Performance

Handheld mode runs at a lower resolution. Graphics appear more blocky than in docked mode. Character details are harder to see.

The LCD screen colors look vibrant. The art style still pops even at lower resolution.

Framerate issues persist in handheld. Combat heavy areas see the same drops as docked mode.

3. Loading Times

Loading times are long on Switch. Expect waits when traveling between camps and dungeons.

The loading screens themselves can lag. This adds to the wait time.

Most players report 30-60 second load times between areas.

Gameplay on Nintendo Switch

The core gameplay works well on Switch controllers.

Simple controls. Hold A button to attack. Use the stick to move. Controls feel responsive.

Bow combat. Auto-targeting helps with ranged attacks. Arrows have limited ammo found during levels.

Enchantment system. Level up to gain enchantment points. Spend points on weapons and armor. Get points back when you scrap old gear.

Artifact abilities. Activate special powers during combat. Healing items and offensive abilities add variety.

Multiplayer on Switch

Minecraft Dungeons supports both local and online multiplayer on Switch.

1. Local Co-op

Play with up to 4 players on one Switch. Each player needs a controller.

Local co-op is the best way to play. The game is more fun with friends. Kids especially enjoy playing together.

Performance takes a hit with 4 players. Framerate drops become more frequent.

2. Online Multiplayer

Online play requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. You also need a Microsoft account.

Cross-play with other platforms is available. Play with friends on Xbox, PlayStation, or PC.

Connection quality varies. Some players report lag during online sessions.

Graphics and Visual Quality

The Minecraft art style translates well to the dungeon crawler format.

Blocky aesthetic. Everything uses Minecraft’s signature cube design. Environments are instantly recognizable.

Vibrant colors. The palette is bright and cheerful. Colors pop on the Switch screen, especially in handheld mode.

Cutscenes. In-game cutscenes look great. Story moments are well animated.

Environmental variety. Levels range from forests to deserts to icy mountains. Each area has a distinct visual identity.

Content and Replayability

The base game has 9 levels. Each level takes 10-15 minutes to complete.

First playthrough takes about 5-6 hours. But the game is designed for multiple runs.

Difficulty levels. Beat levels to unlock greater difficulty. Better loot drops at greater difficulties.

Secret levels. Find hidden areas in each dungeon. Secrets range from obvious to very obscure.

Loot grinding. The addictive loop of finding better gear keeps you playing. Enchantments and artifacts add variety.

DLC and Ultimate Edition

Minecraft Dungeons has multiple DLC packs available on Switch.

The Ultimate Edition includes all DLC. This adds significant content to the base game.

Popular DLC includes Hidden Depths and Flames of the Nether. These expansions add new levels, enemies, and gear.

Seasonal events and tower challenges provide free content updates.

Pros and Cons of Switch Version

Pros

• Portable dungeon crawling works great. Play anywhere in handheld mode.
• Local co-op with up to 4 players. Perfect for families and kids.
• Simple controls work well on Switch controllers. Easy for beginners.
• Cross-play support lets you join friends on other platforms.
• Art style looks good even at lower resolutions.

Cons

• Frequent framerate drops during combat. Performance struggles with many enemies.
• Long loading times between areas. Load screens can lag.
• Handheld graphics are less detailed than docked mode.
• Requires a Microsoft account for online play.
• The base game is short without DLC. Ultimate Edition recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Minecraft Dungeons worth it on Switch?

Yes, if you want portable dungeon crawling or local co-op. The performance issues are noticeable but not game-breaking. Kids and families especially enjoy it.

2. Does Minecraft Dungeons run well on Switch?

It runs okay, but has framerate drops. Performance suffers during busy combat scenes. Loading times are longer than other platforms.

3. Can you play Minecraft Dungeons offline on Switch?

Yes. Solo play and local co-op work offline. Online multiplayer requires an internet connection and Nintendo Switch Online.

4. Should I buy the base game or the Ultimate Edition?

Ultimate Edition is recommended. The base game is short. DLC adds significant content and improves replay value.

5. Is Minecraft Dungeons good for kids?

Yes. Simple controls and family-friendly content make it perfect for children. Local co-op lets parents play with kids.

6. Does the Switch version support cross-play?

Yes. You can play online with friends on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. Cross-play requires a Microsoft account.

Final Verdict on Minecraft Dungeons Switch

Minecraft Dungeons on Switch is a good but not perfect port.

The portability factor is excellent. Playing a dungeon crawler on the go works surprisingly well. Local co-op makes this a great family game.

Performance issues hold it back. Framerate drops and long loading times are frustrating. If you own another platform, that version might run better.

For Switch-only players, this is still worth buying. The gameplay is fun despite technical limitations. Get the Ultimate Edition for the best value.