Resident Evil Requiem Review: A Survival Horror Masterpiece on Nintendo Switch 2

2026 is off to a strong start for gaming. The new hybrid console has already secured a major exclusive title with Pokémon Pokopia, and a significant Xbox release, South of Midnight, is slated to arrive in the coming months. However, a third-party title has already made waves: a launch-day release of Resident Evil, a feat previously considered unlikely.

Capcom has taken an unconventional approach to the release, launching the new installment alongside previous titles in the series. Despite being designed for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series, the game reportedly performs well on the Nintendo Switch 2, demonstrating the console’s capabilities. This success is particularly notable as it showcases the potential for high-fidelity gaming experiences on a portable platform.

Released in February, Resident Evil Requiem is already generating significant buzz as a potential Game of the Year contender for 2026. The game’s critical acclaim is underscored by its current standing as the highest-rated Pokémon game ever on Metacritic [1, 3]. A review of the Nintendo Switch 2 version is now available alongside the analysis of Resident Evil Requiem.

Resident Evil brings Requiem to Nintendo Switch 2

Resident Evil Village captivated audiences with its memorable character, Lady Dimitrescu, but Requiem introduces a new protagonist to the franchise. The reveal that the ninth installment would launch simultaneously with the new Nintendo console added to the anticipation. The return of Leon S. Kennedy has also drawn attention, but the game’s strength lies in the dynamic between its two leads.

Beyond the returning character of Leon, Emily, a character players will encounter in Rhodes Hill, also stands out. Focusing on Grace, the new protagonist, she offers a distinct perspective, reminiscent of Rose Winters, but ultimately establishes herself as a compelling lead. Grace’s vulnerability and fear are palpable, creating a tense experience as players navigate dangerous environments. The game is reportedly most immersive when played on a television, though it performs well in handheld mode.

Leon, the undisputed Resident Evil protagonist

Leon S. Kennedy needs no introduction, being a well-known figure in the world of video games. However, his portrayal in Requiem is notably grittier, reflecting his decades of experience battling zombies, viruses, and malicious corporations. The game begins with Grace being sent to the Hotel Wrenwood, a location she hasn’t visited in eight years, where her mother, Alyssa Ashcroft, was murdered. This mystery, coupled with a cryptic word, immediately draws players into the narrative.

Leon’s own struggle with illness adds a sense of urgency to the story. Capcom’s narrative prowess shines through, maintaining suspense and offering twists that challenge players’ assumptions. The story of Requiem is considered one of the best in the entire franchise, and is particularly frightening when experienced in first-person.

The different genres of Resident Evil Requiem

Capcom masterfully blends the survival horror elements of Resident Evil 7 and Village with the action-packed gameplay of Resident Evil 4 by dividing the campaign between Grace and Leon. While Grace also works for the FBI, she is an analyst, lacking Leon’s combat training and experience. This contrast creates a compelling dynamic.

Playing as Grace is incredibly tense, as players experience her struggle for survival, while playing as Leon is a power fantasy, allowing players to eliminate enemies with a vast arsenal. The availability of a chainsaw, after being tormented by villagers wielding them in Resident Evil 4, is a particularly striking moment. The differing inventory management systems between Leon and Grace further enhance their unique gameplay experiences. Leon has a full briefcase, similar to Resident Evil 4 and Village, allowing him to carry numerous weapons, ammunition, crafting materials, and healing items. Grace, has the limited inventory of titles like Resident Evil VII, forcing players to be selective about what they collect.

Both Grace and Leon can craft items, a feature that works well within the survival horror framework. Grace’s crafting system is unique, requiring her to use the blood of monsters and zombies, collected with a device found in Rhodes Hill. This mechanic adds a layer of vulnerability, as collecting blood leaves her exposed to nearby enemies.

How Resident Evil Requiem looks on Nintendo Switch 2

Understandably, Resident Evil Requiem doesn’t look as visually stunning on the Nintendo Switch 2 as it does on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, or PC. The hybrid console utilizes visual tricks and upscaling techniques. All cinematics are integrated into the engine, resulting in noticeable aliasing around Grace’s hair and curved surfaces. Character models are less detailed, reflections are screen-space rather than ray-traced, and some textures have been reduced. Despite these compromises, Requiem remains a visually impressive game on the Switch 2, and more importantly, fully immerses players in the story and action.

While the focus was on identifying visual compromises, the engaging story and horror elements were captivating. The game aims for 60 frames per second, which is largely achieved during Grace’s sections, due to her exploration of smaller spaces at a slower pace, and the use of dynamic lighting from flashlights, broken lights, and flames. This contributes to a heightened sense of danger and atmosphere.

As with other titles, there are concessions, resulting in jagged edges and pixelation in flashlight beams during cinematics, but these are less noticeable or absent during gameplay. Leon’s sections, however, struggle to reach 60 fps due to larger environments, more enemies, and his role as an experienced action hero.

The game lacks graphical options or a locked 30 fps mode. Capcom has historically preferred unlocked frame rates in previous generations. Despite the limitations, Leon’s sections are still enjoyable. The use of DLSS is key to achieving an acceptable level of smoothness on the Switch 2. In handheld mode, the integrated VRR further enhances performance. The portable experience feels as polished as the docked experience, raising questions about the sacrifices Capcom made to achieve this.

Unique features include the lack of raccoon control, but the Switch 2’s HD Rumble 2 significantly enhances the immersive experience. Players can feel the rumble of a passing subway train, diminishing as it moves away, and the constant patter of rain or flashes of lightning add another layer of immersion. Gyroscopic motion controls are also implemented, allowing for more precise aiming. Additional assist settings are available, automatically activated in Casual mode or toggled in Modern and Classic modes.

Resident Evil Requiem, heading to The Game Awards 2026

Before the outcome of The Game Awards is known, amiibo figures of Grace and Leon are planned for release, offering cosmetic weapon skins in the coming months. They will be available for purchase on July 30, 2026, at an undisclosed price. Capcom is also likely to announce expansions for the game, though details are still forthcoming. Rumors suggest Alyssa Ashcroft may star in a short story, while others indicate Leon has more story to tell. However, the specifics of the DLC remain unknown.

Fortunately, the main story of Resident Evil Requiem takes approximately 10 hours to complete, with around 15 hours for those who explore every detail. Perfectionists or those replaying the story can easily spend 30 hours. The DLC is expected to feel complementary to the main experience.

Final assessment of Resident Evil Requiem on Nintendo Switch 2

Requiem represents Resident Evil at its finest, delivering a peak experience in the genre, seamlessly combining survival horror and action. The Nintendo Switch 2 version performs admirably, encouraging third-party companies to invest in quality ports for the hybrid console. The game’s terror, captivating characters, and a story that fits perfectly within the Resident Evil universe craft it a must-play for fans and a compelling entry point for newcomers.