If you’re a gaming enthusiast with a low-end Android device, you might have struggled to run Nintendo Switch emulators smoothly. Most emulators demand high-end hardware, but Kenji NX—an official Ryujinx Android port—claims to offer better compatibility for Mali GPU devices.
In this article, we test Kenji NX on a Redmi K50i (with a Mali-G610 GPU and just 6GB of RAM) to see if it can handle popular Switch games like Pokémon Legends: Arceus and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
What is Kenji NX?
Kenji NX is a revival of the Ryujinx Android project, optimized for low-end Android devices. Unlike other Switch emulators (like Yuzu), it focuses on better stability and performance for devices with Mali GPUs and limited RAM.
Test Device Specs:
- Phone: Redmi K50i
- GPU: Mali-G610
- RAM: 6GB (only ~2GB available for emulation)
Setting Up Kenji NX for Optimal Performance
Before testing games, we applied the best settings for smoother gameplay:
1. System Settings
- VSYNC: Set to Unbounded (reduces input lag).
- DRAM Size: Adjusted to 6GB (max available).
- Performance Mode: Enabled (boosts CPU/GPU usage).
2. CPU Settings
- Left at default (no overclocking needed).
3. Graphics Settings
- Resolution Scale: Reduced to 0.5x (for better stability).
These tweaks help minimize crashes and improve frame rates on weaker hardware.
Game Performance Tests
1. Pokémon Legends: Arceus
✅ Boots successfully (unlike other Yuzu forks).
✅ Cutscenes run smoothly (no stuttering).
❌ Game freezes after intro (likely due to RAM limitations).
❌ No FPS counter (performance estimation is difficult).
Verdict: While the game starts, it crashes in open-world sections due to insufficient RAM.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
✅ Boots to Nintendo logo.
❌ Black screen after intro (GPU incompatibility).
❌ Device crashes (6GB RAM is not enough for this game).
Verdict: Unplayable on this device. A Snapdragon device with 8GB+ RAM might fare better.
3. Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit Remastered
✅ Menus and cutscenes load fine.
❌ Game freezes during gameplay (RAM bottleneck).
Verdict: Partially works, but not stable enough for full playthroughs.
Which Games Actually Work?
While high-end Switch games struggle, Kenji NX can run less demanding titles like:
- Pokémon Sword/Shield
- Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu/Eevee
- Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm
- Pokémon Brilliant Diamond/Shining Pearl
If you have a Snapdragon device with 8GB+ RAM, performance will be much better.
Final Verdict: Is Kenji NX Worth It?
✔ Pros:
- Better Mali GPU support than other emulators.
- Boots games that Yuzu forks can’t.
- Good for lightweight Switch games.
❌ Cons:
- 6GB RAM is insufficient for AAA titles.
- No FPS counter (hard to gauge performance).
- Crashes frequently in open-world games.
Conclusion: Kenji NX is a promising emulator for low-end devices, but high-end games need more RAM and a better GPU. If you have a budget phone, stick to less demanding games.
Tags:
Nintendo Switch emulator, Kenji NX, Ryujinx Android, low-end gaming, Mali GPU, Android emulation, Pokémon Legends Arceus, Zelda Tears of the Kingdom
Hashtags:
#KenjiNX #SwitchEmulator #AndroidGaming #LowEndGaming #Ryujinx #Emulation
Disclaimer: Emulating Nintendo Switch games may violate terms of service. Only use ROMs of games you legally own. Performance varies by device.
Looking for more emulation tips? Check out Ryujinx’s official site for updates!
Have you tried Kenji NX? Share your experience in the comments! 🎮
