A Hat in Time (Switch Version) is a charming "collectathon" 3D platformer that pays homage to the N64 era. While the core game is widely praised for its personality and tight controls, the Nintendo Switch port remains a "mixed bag" technically, even after multiple updates. WayTooManyGames Core Gameplay & Story The Premise : You play as
, a nameless girl whose spaceship fuel (Time Pieces) is scattered across several planets after a mafia attack.
: The game features diverse worlds—from a mafia-run town to a spooky forest—each with unique mechanics and creative boss fights.
: Central to gameplay, you collect yarn to craft hats that grant special abilities like sprinting or brewing explosive potions. Technical Performance on Switch
The Switch port is notorious for being less polished than other versions.
A Hat in Time on the Nintendo Switch is a comprehensive port of the acclaimed 3D platformer, featuring a significant amount of post-launch content and performance refinements. The game's total digital footprint is approximately Core Game Updates & Performance Latest Performance Patch : Recent updates have focused on stability and technical polish
, specifically targeting frame rate consistency and bug fixes. Key Technical Improvements Motion Blur toggle in the settings menu. A Hat in Time Switch NSP UPDATE DLC
Fixed critical crashes when using specific badges (like the Peaceful Badge) in the Nyakuza Metro
Resolved a saving issue where the game would fail if no user account was selected. Enhanced performance in specific zones like the Subcon Cave Rift Downloadable Content (DLC)
The Switch version supports both major expansions, which can be acquired through the Nintendo eShop
The game follows the adventures of Hat Kid, a young girl who wins a prestigious award known as the "Golden Acorn." However, her victory is short-lived as she soon discovers that the evil witch, Grumlestia, has kidnapped the Acorns, which are the source of magic in the world. With the help of a grumpy but lovable old man named Topper, Hat Kid sets out on a journey to save the Acorns and defeat Grumlestia.
Let’s cut to the chase. Even with all updates and DLC installed, the A Hat in Time Switch NSP UPDATE DLC combination does not run as well as the PC version. However, it is now a solid, playable port.
The verdict: If you only own a Switch, buy it. The charm and level design shine through the technical compromises. If you own a PC or Steam Deck, play it there. But for portable Nyakuza Metro grinding? The Switch is your only option. A Hat in Time (Switch Version) is a
For fans of 3D platformers, A Hat in Time is essential. For Switch homebrew enthusiasts, the A Hat in Time Switch NSP UPDATE DLC bundle is the definitive way to play. The combination of the stability patch (Update 1.0.4) and the massive Nyakuza Metro expansion transforms a buggy port into a polished masterpiece.
Whether you are exploring the Subcon Forest or chasing the Empress in the subway, this version of the game finally does justice to Hat Kid’s adventure.
Final Recommendation: Look for the v1.0.4 repack by established scene groups. Verify your firmware settings. Install in strict order. And above all—enjoy the music. The Arctic Cruise level alone is worth the effort.
Have you successfully installed the Nyakuza Metro DLC on your Switch? Let us know in the comments below. Stay tuned for more Switch NSP update guides.
The release of A Hat in Time on the Nintendo Switch was a landmark moment for the indie platformer, marked by a multi-stage rollout of content that combined a space-faring adventure with significant post-launch expansions. The Launch & Core Adventure
Originally released on October 18, 2019, the Switch version brought Hat Kid's quest to recover her lost Time Pieces to a portable platform. The base game features vibrant worlds like Mafia Town and Subcon Forest, where players use different stitched hats to unlock unique powers. DLC & Major Updates Story The game follows the adventures of Hat
The game's content was significantly expanded through two primary DLC packs and continuous performance updates: Seal the Deal DLC
: Released alongside the Switch launch, this pack introduced "The Arctic Cruise" chapter and the notoriously difficult "Death Wish" mode. Nyakuza Metro DLC
: Launched on November 21, 2019, for the Switch, it added an underground city world, a new Baseball Bat weapon, and customization items like stickers. Vanessa's Curse
: A more recent multiplayer mode released in late 2021, where players compete in a cursed game of tag inside a mansion. Technical Updates
: Because early versions faced performance issues like frame drops, major updates (such as a 5.4GB patch) were released to improve stability and pre-load DLC content for physical edition users. Physical vs. Digital Versions
The experience varies slightly depending on how you purchased the game:
Here’s a helpful, organized write-up for A Hat in Time on Nintendo Switch, focusing on the NSP base game, updates, and DLC for those who use digital backups (e.g., via custom firmware like Atmosphere).