Excitement among fans was high when data-mining of the code for the Resident Evil 3 remake’s demo indicated the possibility of an upcoming Nintendo Switch version. A reference to the Nintendo eShop was included, as well as mention of the Switch’s autosave function. Previously, the latest entry in the survival horror franchise was slated only to be released on the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Windows.
Senior gaming analyst David Ahmad took to Twitter to clarify the situation. Ahmad’s Tweet read: “No plans right now for a native version. But a cloud version for Switch is being explored.”
No plans right now for a native version. But a cloud version for Switch is being explored.
— Daniel Ahmad (@ZhugeEX) March 24, 2020
A “cloud version” of the game is essentially the PC port streamed directly onto the console, so that it is not handicapped by the limitations of the Switch’s hardware.
However, this announcement may not bode well for Western fans of the franchise. Previously, a Nintendo Switch “cloud version” of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard was released in 2018. Despite selling well and being received generally positively, this version was never released outside of Japan, the series’ original home (where Biohazard is used as the overarching title of the entire franchise, rather than that of a single installment).
Until this potential “cloud version” is confirmed, it is unlikely that we will receive any further information about whether or not it will be made available to Western audiences.
In the meantime, fans can enjoy the playable demo of the Resident Evil 3 remake on the PC, Xbox One, and PlayStation 4. Players accompany the character, Jill Valentine, on a tense, harrowing journey through the familiar setting of Raccoon City. The demo also includes a unique “bonus feature” in the form of a Mr. Charlie Scavenger Hunt, in which players can attempt to locate 20 dolls of the beloved character.
The full game’s worldwide launch is currently slated for April 3, 2020.
