Resident Evil Requiem on Nintendo Switch 2: A Surprising Success
GameCentral has played the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Resident Evil Requiem, released today, and is genuinely shocked at how it compares to the PlayStation 5 edition. This ninth mainline entry in the survival horror series is available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, but the Switch 2 port stands out for its unexpected quality.
A Long History with Nintendo
Resident Evil has a storied history with Nintendo hardware, dating back to the GameCube era with titles like the Resident Evil 1 remake, Resident Evil 4, and Resident Evil Zero. While PlayStation is often the first association for the franchise, Nintendo has consistently held a secondary role. However, since the Wii, Nintendo consoles have lagged behind in raw power, making same-generation ports challenging.
We assumed this would hold true for Resident Evil Requiem, given its impressive visuals and the Switch 2's lower power compared to the PlayStation 5. But after testing both versions, the Switch 2 port proves to be a remarkable achievement.
Graphics and Performance Analysis
In terms of content, the Switch 2 version is identical to its counterparts. Graphically, it is not as advanced, but the differences are subtle enough that casual observers might not notice. For those prioritizing top-tier graphics, the Switch 2 is not the optimal choice, but its portability offers a significant advantage.
Upon playing, compromises are evident to veteran gamers: the frame rate is not a consistent 60fps, often dipping below 30fps in handheld mode. However, given that 30fps action titles have been standard for decades, this is not a deal-breaker, especially in a slower-paced game like Resident Evil.
Lighting effects appear slightly less realistic with moving objects, and resolution likely uses upscaling technology like DLSS, though this is not obvious. Overall, the game still looks fantastic, with indoor environments nearly identical to the PlayStation version, except for minor details like character hair.
Nintendo's Strategy and Future Implications
Nintendo has been notably silent about the Switch 2's power, avoiding tech demos or first-party showcases. Typically, such silence suggests shortcomings, but with Nintendo, it often means the opposite. The opening hour of Requiem on Switch 2, set in a busy city street, is less photorealistic but far better than expected, with simpler models and textures.
Frame rate issues can cause occasional problems during intense scenes, but even the PlayStation 5 experienced hiccups in specific boss battles. This port, alongside titles like Star Wars Outlaws and Final Fantasy 7 Remake, demonstrates that PlayStation 5 games are viable on Switch 2, potentially superior for those valuing portability.
Pricing and Market Considerations
The main drawback is pricing: Requiem costs the same on Switch 2 as on other consoles. Ports of Resident Evil 7 and Resident Evil Village, released concurrently, are cheaper but still pricier than discounted versions on other formats. Capcom could boost Switch 2 sales by offering lower prices or seeking subsidies from Nintendo.
Currently, consumers face a choice between a slightly compromised portable edition and a more graphically advanced home version. For most players, the graphical differences are negligible, suggesting that if these ports sell well, more publishers may follow suit.
This development highlights a shifting landscape in gaming, where portability and performance balance opens new opportunities for cross-platform releases.
