Resident Evil Requiem Neck Speaker: A Unique but Costly Gaming Accessory
Fans of the Resident Evil series and immersive horror experiences may find themselves intrigued by a new, officially licensed peripheral, though acquiring it presents significant challenges. The Resident Evil Requiem neck speaker, developed through a partnership between Capcom and Panasonic, is designed to heighten the terror of the upcoming game, which promises to blend humour with intense scares.
Immersive Features and Limited Availability
This specialised speaker boasts a 'horror mode' that sharpens audio cues such as breathing, footsteps, and distant moans, aiming to bring the game's chilling atmosphere directly to players' ears. Packaged with Resident Evil branding and the game's logo, it targets those seeking deeper immersion, especially in anticipation of potential VR support updates post-launch. However, comfort during extended play sessions remains untested, and its novelty comes with a steep price tag of approximately £165 (¥35,200).
Currently, the speaker appears exclusive to Japan, with Panasonic's website offering no mention of worldwide shipping. This limits access for international fans, who might need to rely on imports or travel. For those in the UK, Panasonic's local website lists similar neck speakers in its Soundslayer range, with one model slightly cheaper at £159.99 and others priced higher at £299.99, though none include the Resident Evil-specific horror mode initially.
Future Updates and Broader Context
Panasonic has indicated that the horror mode will be added to other speakers in its range after 2026, meaning a wait of at least a year post-Resident Evil Requiem's release. This timing aligns with Capcom's typical annual release schedule for the franchise, with rumours suggesting remakes like Resident Evil – Code: Veronica in 2027 and Resident Evil 0 in 2028. While these are unconfirmed, they highlight the ongoing evolution of the series and its peripheral offerings.
In summary, the Resident Evil Requiem neck speaker offers a novel way to enhance gameplay immersion but faces hurdles in cost and availability. As the gaming community awaits broader access, this peripheral underscores the growing trend of licensed accessories in the industry.
