Introduction to the Remake
The remake of Resident Evil 4, launched in 2023, received widespread acclaim and a Game of the Year nomination. This entry in Capcom’s legendary series offers spectacular survival horror gameplay, a massively engaging story, and a memorable cast of characters.
Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2. Available on: PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, PC, iOS. Release date: October 16, 2026 (Switch 2 edition).
The core Resident Evil 4 remake experience is exceptional. Leon serves as a charming and likable protagonist, the gunplay is excellent with a fantastic suite of weapons, and the narrative is top-tier. While this entry may lack the chilling, claustrophobic atmosphere of its predecessors, it delivers plenty of high-octane action segments, engaging puzzles, and significant scares.
Performance Overview
Regarding performance on the Switch 2, this title exhibits the highest amount of performance issues among the recently ported Resident Evil entries (Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3). This is understandable given it is a newer release with higher technical demands, but it suggests this is not the definitive way to experience Leon's adventure.
One notable visual imperfection is texture pop-in. In both handheld and docked modes, some environmental elements, such as trees or cliffs, initially appear in lower resolution from a distance before suddenly rendering with more detail as the player approaches. While not a major gameplay impediment, this occurs regularly and can occasionally detract from immersion.
Additionally, the source reviewer encountered a few frame drops during gameplay. For instance, venturing into a cave with a flickering purple flame caused the game to run less smoothly for a second or two, an occurrence noted several times. Similar to the Switch 2 ports of Resident Evil 2 and 3, distant enemies sometimes appeared shaky due to noticeable frame drops. However, combat generally remained very smooth, and these drops rarely provided a disadvantage in skirmishes.
Motion Control Implementation
This version of the game supports motion controls, a welcome addition for fans of gyro aiming. However, its implementation could be more effective. While vertical aiming feels precise and responsive, horizontal movement is comparatively sluggish. Nevertheless, traditional controls function seamlessly, with various schemes available in the Options menu to suit player preferences.
The game features memorable moments, such as when the friendly dog in the village aids the player by distracting a towering giant, allowing for strategic attacks.
It is important to clarify that the game's performance is not poor by any means.
Overall Port Assessment
For the most part, Resident Evil 4 plays well on the Switch 2, offering largely smooth performance and solid graphical fidelity, particularly in docked mode. While some textures appear less refined in handheld mode, the dark and dismal environments still translate effectively. The game also includes HDR support for enhanced contrast, and character models appear sharp. Overall, the port is considered totally serviceable, providing an experience closer to the PS4 version than the PS5.
Ultimately, the Nintendo Switch 2 port of the Resident Evil 4 remake is decent. Many of the issues, such as pop-in and occasional frame drops, are relatively minor. However, the motion controls could benefit from greater precision. Despite these points, the port delivers generally smooth performance, good visual fidelity, and includes all major DLC, such as the excellent Separate Ways.
While this may not be the definitive way to experience Leon Kennedy’s journey, if playing Resident Evil 4 on the go is a priority, this Switch 2 port is a perfectly viable option.
Key Advantages
You want to experience Leon’s adventure on the go. As with any Switch 2 port, the system’s hybrid capabilities are a significant advantage. The game runs relatively well, even in handheld mode, making the Switch 2 version a serviceable option for portable play.
You are yet to experience the RE4 remake. If you missed the Resident Evil 4 remake, now is an opportune time to play it. The Switch 2 version is the Gold Edition, which bundles the base game with major DLC like Separate Ways.
Don’t play it if…
You prioritize best-in-class performance. While Resident Evil 4 performs fairly well on Switch 2, it has clear blemishes. The most obvious is texture pop-in, where environmental elements transition from lower to higher resolution upon approach. There are also occasional frame drops, which, while not overly problematic, are less likely to occur on platforms like the PS5.
You are new to Resident Evil. The narrative impact of Resident Evil 4 may be diminished if previous entries in the series, particularly Resident Evil 2, have not been played. It is highly recommended to play that title first.
Accessibility features
The options menu provides several customization choices, including various camera options, multiple control schemes (including motion aiming), toggle or hold run modes, and a range of voice and text languages. Additionally, players can adjust the color of the reticle, laser dot sight, and biosensor scope, alter HUD opacity, and reduce damage display if preferred.
Score breakdown
Scored out of 10Price & Release Date
Resident Evil 4 Remake
