Resident Evil Requiem is poised to make franchise history in multiple significant ways, marking a groundbreaking moment for the legendary horror series. The ninth major instalment in the Resident Evil franchise will debut on February 27, and it represents the first mainline entry to launch day one on a Nintendo Switch console, specifically the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
A Historic Nintendo Partnership
This development breaks from past patterns where titles like Resident Evil 5, 6, and 7 arrived on Nintendo Switch considerably later than their initial releases. In fact, Resident Evil 7 and Village, the eighth and most recent main instalment, were only accessible on the original Switch console through cloud streaming, highlighting the significance of this day-one availability.
You would need to wind back to 2005 to discover another Nintendo day-one release, when Resident Evil 4 initially launched exclusively on the GameCube before appearing on PlayStation 2 several months afterwards. As developers Capcom abandon older generation systems, Resident Evil Requiem will be exclusively available on PC, Switch 2, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, making it a truly next-generation experience.
Exclusive Amiibo Figures Unveiled
But the Nintendo exclusivity does not end there. In a move that will delight Switch 2 enthusiasts, Capcom has unveiled the very first Resident Evil Amiibo figures, as reported by All Out Gaming. Fans will be able to purchase not one, but two figures later this year, featuring the game's main characters Grace Ashcroft and Leon Kennedy.
During a recent Nintendo Direct, it was confirmed that these Amiibos will launch in summer 2026. Grace's figurine depicts her sporting a black rucksack and brown jacket, as glimpsed in some of the game's preview clips, whilst Leon wields a reliable zombie-slaying hatchet. As is customary, tapping them on the sensor located on the Switch 2's right Joy-Con will unlock exclusive bonuses, which have been confirmed as special in-game weapon skins for Requiem.
Fan Reactions and Future Speculations
Enthusiasts have greeted the announcement with widespread delight, with one taking to Reddit to declare, "Just when I thought my wallet was safe." Another commented, "What a time to be alive," while a third remarked, "They both honestly look great. I'm definitely getting them both." Some supporters have even suggested this could hint at a Resident Evil character joining the next Super Smash Bros game's line-up, though that remains speculative rather than a confirmed expectation.
Capcom has pledged that the Amiibos will be available this summer, and while they are not crucial for enjoying Requiem, they add an exciting collectible element to the gaming experience. This dual announcement of a day-one Switch 2 launch and exclusive Amiibo figures solidifies Resident Evil Requiem's place in both Nintendo and franchise history, setting a new precedent for future releases.
