Instead of creating an informal Switch 2 version of Arc Raiders, a fan has used their technical knowledge to run it on a much less powerful device Nintendo equipment.
Thanks to the added power of the Nintendo Switch 2, there’s little reason for third-party releases to skip over it like they did with the Switch 1. Especially when the likes of Cyberpunk 2077 it goes well in it.
However, there remain many popular games that are not available on the Nintendo device, such as Arc Raiders ejection shooterwhich was a certified hit at launch and successful enough to earn the CEO of developer Embark Studios a promotion within parent company Nexon.
Instead of a dedicated Switch 2 port, a fan has concocted a way to play the game on the Nintendo device. However, instead of the Switch 2, they have opted for a much older Nintendo console: the 3DS.
No, we don’t get it either, but it’s surprisingly entertaining. Redditor YeezysKanye2020 has shared images (but sadly no video) of them playing Arc Raiders on a New Nintendo 3DS XL, one of the later revisions to the device.
As a reminder, this 3DS model comes with an extra (albeit very small) C-stick on the right side that the original didn’t have, making it more convenient for camera control.
Expert, exclusive game analysis
Register at GameCentral Newsletter for a unique look at the week in games, along with the latest commentary and more. Delivered to your inbox every Saturday morning.
The New Nintendo 3DS name seems ironic nowadays, as it was first launched over 10 years ago in 2014. The original 3DS first appeared in 2011.
You wouldn’t think a game released in 2025 would run particularly well on 12-year-old hardware, but, in response to a suspicious comment, YeezysKanye2020 explains that the framerate is fine and it’s the controls that are the biggest problem.
Technically speaking, YeezysKanye2020 is cheating as the game is not running natively on 3DS. Instead, it’s streamed using a PC app called Moonlight, which is why they’re able to play the game using the new Steam controller.
It should also come as no surprise that all of this is only possible because the 3DS itself has been modified, so it’s not like you can replicate this without messing with the device’s internals.
Regardless that they are discontinued in 2020The 3DS has remained a favorite among hobbyists, even after Nintendo shut down the internet serversa small community managed to stay online in certain games for over 200 days.
Embark Studios has never commented on officially bringing Arc Raiders to the Switch 2, but it’s unlikely there will be any technological hurdles holding it back. The bigger problem, from their perspective, is whether the demographics make sense.
However, Microsoft and Activision are releasing their next Call Of Duty game for the Switch 2, alongside the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S… although it remains to be seen how well it will perform.
Email gamecentral@metro.co.ukleave a comment below, follow us on Twitter.
To send letters to Inbox and reader features more easily, without having to send an email, just use our Submit the stuff page here.
For more stories like this, check out our games page.
MORE: Forza Horizon 6’s rival Clutch is from many of the same developers and writers of Skins
MORE: New cheaper Lego Pokémon sets let you battle and train with digital smart bricks
MORE: Star Fox Hands-On Preview – Nintendo’s Star Wars barrel makes another appearance
