Before we dive into the patch notes, let’s address the elephant in the Batcave. NSP stands for Nintendo Submission Package. It is the digital format used by the Nintendo eShop. An "NSP Update" is simply the official patch file that developers release to fix bugs.
Important Disclaimer: This guide is intended for users who own a legitimate physical cartridge or digital license of Batman: Arkham City and wish to update their legally dumped backup copies via custom firmware (CFW) like Atmosphere or Ryujinx/Yuzu emulators. We do not condone piracy. Always dump your own games.
A: Yes. The Switch cartridge includes all DLC on the base game. The update fixes a specific bug in the DLC where the elevator would not descend.
Unequivocally, yes.
If you own Batman: Arkham City on the Nintendo Switch, the v1.0.2 update is mandatory. The launch version was nearly unplayable; the updated version is a respectable handheld port of a masterpiece. While it cannot compete with the PC version at 4K/120FPS, being able to glide through Arkham City on a bus or a plane is a technological marvel.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommendation: Download the update immediately. For CFW users, grab the NSP from your dumped cartridge. For retail users, plug your Switch into the dock and let it update.
One fascinating result of the NSP update being decrypted is that the modding community has created a hybrid version. Since the Switch version runs on Unreal Engine 3, modders have extracted the high-resolution textures from the Return to Arkham PS4 release and injected them into the Switch v1.0.2 build.
Warning: This requires a LayeredFS mod. It tanks performance (20-25 FPS) but makes the game look stunning in handheld mode. Batman- Arkham City Switch NSP UPDATE
The Batman: Arkham City update for the Nintendo Switch (found within the Batman: Arkham Trilogy) focuses on bringing the game’s performance closer to its original console counterparts while maintaining portability. Key Technical Features & Improvements
Performance Optimization: The update addresses initial performance hurdles, targeting a consistent 30 FPS. While some drops still occur during intense open-world traversal, combat remains fluid and responsive. Dynamic Resolution:
Docked Mode: Scales up to 1080p (typically settles around 900p) for a clearer image on TVs.
Handheld Mode: Targets a native 720p, taking advantage of the Switch’s built-in display.
Enhanced Visuals: The Switch version features higher-resolution self-shadows compared to the 2011 original, though it lacks anti-aliasing to preserve frame rates.
Stability Patches: Regular updates have been released to fix general bugs and improve overall system stability during long play sessions. Content & Gameplay Additions Batman: Arkham Trilogy | Nintendo Switch download software
The Batman: Arkham City NSP update for the Nintendo Switch primarily addresses performance stability and includes all previously released DLC as part of the Batman: Arkham Trilogy. Update Installation Guide
To ensure the best experience, you should always install the latest update file (.nsp) for the game.
Cumulative Nature: Updates are cumulative; you only need the latest version (e.g., v131072, v196608) to get all previous fixes. Before we dive into the patch notes, let’s
Installation Method: You can install the base game, updates, and DLC in any order using installers like DBI or Tinfoil. These tools allow you to install over existing files without losing saved data.
Storage: Files can be installed to either the console's internal NAND or a microSD card. Essential Gameplay Secrets
All Skins Cheat Code: You can unlock and use any DLC skin from the start of the game (without completing the story) by entering the following code on the Main Menu: Left, Left, Down, Down, Left, Left, Right, Up, Up, Down.
A confirmation sound will play if entered correctly, allowing you to select suits like Batman Inc. or the Animated Series skin immediately. Included DLC Content
The Switch version includes all content originally found in the Game of the Year and Wii U Armored Editions:
Batman: Arkham City on Nintendo Switch is widely considered the "gold standard" of the Arkham Trilogy ports. Unlike the notoriously broken Arkham Knight Arkham City
provides a smooth and faithful experience that captures the gothic atmosphere of the original 2011 classic. Performance and Visuals Frame Rate : The game targets a locked 30 FPS
and maintains it consistently across both docked and handheld modes. Resolution : It runs at approximately 720p with dynamic resolution
. While textures and models use lower settings compared to modern consoles, the art style holds up remarkably well on the Switch's screen. Port Quality : This version is based on the original PC code rather than the controversial Return to Arkham A: Yes
remasters. This means it retains the original lighting and artistic direction that many fans prefer. Switch 2 Improvements : On newer hardware, the game targets 1080p resolution
while maintaining that stable 30 FPS, offering a crisper image that rivals the PS4 experience. Content and Features Complete Package : The NSP/Digital version includes all released DLC , such as the Harley Quinn’s Revenge
story expansion and all playable character skins (Catwoman, Robin, Nightwing). Handheld Experience
: Many reviewers highlight that playing an open-world Gotham in handheld mode is the biggest selling point, as the game feels "right" on a portable device.
: The combat system remains fluid and responsive, though some users report a slight "sluggishness" when spinning the camera compared to 60 FPS versions on other platforms.
If you are looking for the best way to play the Arkham series on Switch, Arkham City is the clear winner
. It avoids the massive stuttering and resolution drops found in Arkham Knight and offers a more expansive world than Arkham Asylum Stable 30 FPS performance. Faithful to the original PC/Xbox 360 aesthetic. All DLC included in the base download. Batman: Arkham Trilogy Nintendo Switch Performance Review!
When Batman: Return to Arkham launched on the Switch in late 2023, it was met with significant criticism regarding technical performance.
Because of these issues, the "NSP UPDATE" became highly anticipated, as players hoped the developers would optimize the game post-launch.
We tested the Batman: Arkham City Switch NSP Update (v1.0.2) on a Switch OLED (CFW 17.0.1) and a Steam Deck (Ryujinx) over 10 hours of gameplay. Here is the verdict.