When a horror blockbuster outsells a tennis game: why Resident Evil Requiem’s UK launch matters

The moment a survival-horror epic shakes up the UK retail charts and quietly outperforms a bright, family-friendly Mario tennis title is the sort of headline that makes you rethink platform dynamics. Resident Evil Requiem launched on 27 February 2026 and immediately grabbed the number one spot in the UK physical charts — and the details underneath that top line are the interesting part.

Quick snapshot

• Resident Evil Requiem debuted at number 1 on the UK physical charts the week after its 27 February 2026 release.
• Platform split for Requiem’s launch week: PS5 54%, PC 36%, Xbox 6%, Switch 2 4%.
• Industry observers say Requiem’s first-week Switch 2 sales were “broadly the same” as Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition’s Switch 2 performance last year.
• Requiem’s launch week physical sales outpaced both Resident Evil 4 (remake) and Resident Evil Village, and — notably for Nintendo watchers — did more in week one than Mario Tennis Fever. (nintendolife.com)

What the numbers are actually telling us

On paper, 4% for Switch 2 looks tiny — and it is small relative to PS5 and PC — but context matters:

• Switch 2 is still early in its lifecycle and many third-party launches are leaning into game-key cards rather than full cartridges. That affects how some publishers and consumers approach physical copies.
• Comparing Switch 2 numbers to past Switch/console launches is fraught: the install base, consumer expectations, and distribution choices (real cart vs key card) all change how physical sales look. Yet, the assertion that Requiem’s Switch 2 physical sales mirror Cyberpunk 2077’s Switch 2 week-one is notable because Cyberpunk’s Switch 2 release was an unexpectedly strong third-party showing. (gamesradar.com)

Why a mature, third‑person horror game beating Mario Tennis matters

• Audience overlap and shelf space — Mario Tennis Fever targets families and casual players; Resident Evil targets an older, franchise-loyal crowd. For Requiem to outsell Mario Tennis in physical UK retail suggests strong core-fan purchases and collector interest (physical editions still matter to that audience).
• Third-party momentum on Switch 2 — Cyberpunk 2077’s strong Switch 2 performance earlier set a benchmark for how third-party, big-budget Western games could find a market on Nintendo’s new handheld-console hybrid. Requiem showing similar Switch 2 physical traction implies the platform can still be a meaningful revenue source for non-Nintendo AAA titles — even if as a modest slice of the whole. (gamesradar.com)
• Physical demand persists — Despite an industry tilt to digital, certain franchises drive physical purchases: collectors, special editions, and players who prefer ownership of a tangible product. Requiem’s performance — and the appearance of a “Generation Pack” (Switch 2 exclusive bundle) in the top 10 — highlights how packaging and exclusivity still move units. (nintendolife.com)

Platform strategy and physical formats

• Game-key cards vs cartridges: Some publishers opt for game-key cards on Switch 2 to save costs and logistics; others release traditional cartridges. CD Projekt’s decision to use cartridges for Cyberpunk previously was singled out as a factor in its strong physical sales on Switch 2. Choices like that affect retail visibility and buyer preference. Requiem’s sales suggest that even with key cards being common, a strong brand will still push physical sales. (gamesradar.com)
• The long tail matters: Requiem’s launch top spot is an initial snapshot. Sustained sales (and digital performance) will show whether this is a one-week peak or a longer franchise resurgence. Early Steam concurrent peaks and PC success also paint a fuller picture beyond physical UK charts. (gamesradar.com)

Notes for Nintendo and third‑party watchers

• Don’t read 4% as failure — for Switch 2-specific strategy, small slices can still be profitable, and they often come with higher ancillary revenue (deluxe editions, merch, digital DLC).
• Comparative benchmarks (like Cyberpunk 2077) matter because they show a precedent: big Western AA/AAA games can carve out a meaningful niche on Switch 2 if handled right.
• Mario Tennis Fever’s drop behind a mature horror release is a reminder that launch hype doesn’t guarantee sustained retail dominance; competition and catalog dynamics quickly reshuffle the charts. (gamesasylum.com)

What to watch next

• Week-to-week chart movement for Requiem and Mario Tennis Fever to see whether Requiem holds momentum or if Nintendo-first titles reassert themselves.
• Digital storefront performance and worldwide sales reports (Capcom’s statements and Steam/PC metrics) for a fuller commercial picture.
• Whether more publishers choose cartridges over key cards for future Switch 2 releases — decisions here will shape physical retail performance going forward. (gamesradar.com)

Final thoughts

A horror blockbuster topping the UK physical charts and outpacing a Nintendo-branded tennis game is a tidy reminder that the videogame market still loves surprises. It’s not just about platform loyalties; it’s about franchises that capture attention, smart release formats, and the persistent appetite for physical editions among certain buyers. Resident Evil Requiem’s launch week is a useful case study: big-name third-party games can still make an impact on Nintendo’s new hardware, even if they grab only a sliver of the platform split.

Sources

• UK Charts: Resident Evil Requiem Switch 2 Sales Comparable To Cyberpunk 2077. Nintendo Life.
  https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2026/03/uk-charts-resident-evil-requiem-switch-2-sales-comparable-to-cyberpunk-2077

• Resident Evil Requiem sets series record on Steam within an hour of launch. GamesRadar+.
  https://www.gamesradar.com/games/resident-evil/resident-evil-requiem-sets-series-record-on-steam-within-an-hour-of-launch-hitting-a-peak-of-260-000

• CD Projekt’s cartridge decision and Switch 2 physical sales. GamesRadar (report on Cyberpunk 2077 Switch 2 physical success).
  https://www.gamesradar.com/games/cyberpunk/cd-projekt-said-ditching-game-key-cards-for-cyberpunk-2077-on-switch-2-was-the-right-thing-to-do-and-its-apparently-paid-off-because-75-percent-of-that-versions-sales-were-physical/

• Resident Evil Requiem (sales and chart notes). Wikipedia (summary of contemporary reporting).
  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resident_Evil_Requiem

A surprise speedrun: Copen zips into Azure Striker Gunvolt 3 with CONNECT iX

There’s a small, electrifying update buzzing through the Gunvolt community this week: Inti Creates has pushed a free update to Azure Striker Gunvolt Trilogy Enhanced that injects a fresh, high-octane mode into Azure Striker Gunvolt 3. Called “CONNECT iX,” it hands players control of Copen — the rival-turned-standout from the Luminous Avenger iX subseries — and turns Gunvolt 3 into a compact speedrun playground built for chaining movement, scoring, and personal bests.

Why this matters beyond a new costume

On paper, it’s a single new mode. In practice, CONNECT iX does a lot of heavy lifting:

• It bridges two branches of Inti Creates’ action catalog (the main Gunvolt numbered series and the iX spin-offs) in a playable, mechanical way.
• It reframes Gunvolt 3’s stages as speedrun courses, highlighting movement tech and risk/reward scoring rather than long-form story progression.
• It gives fans of Copen — and players who like fast, precise platform-action — a distilled, replayable challenge without needing to jump to a different game.

If you’ve played any Gunvolt title, you know the series is about rhythm: dash, lock, chain, and keep momentum. CONNECT iX takes that rhythm and accelerates it.

What CONNECT iX actually does

Based on the patch notes and coverage:

• CONNECT iX is a “Speedrun” mode added to Azure Striker Gunvolt 3 (accessible from the main menu).
• You play as Copen from Luminous Avenger iX 2 across five stages and bosses, aiming for the highest score and fastest time. (gematsu.com)
• Gameplay highlights:
  • Bullit Dash mobility lets Copen zip through the air and lock onto enemies rapidly.
  • Access to the seven EX Weapons (Lola’s special equipment) from iX 2 enables different strategies and loadouts.
  • An Overdrive mechanic triggers when Kudos (score) is high enough, powering Copen up and invoking Lola’s support via song. (gematsu.com)

These changes make CONNECT iX feel like a curated best-of: short runs, explosive movement, and a focus on optimizing routes and weapon use. It’s competitive-friendly without being punishing to newcomers who want to experiment.

A bit of context: where CONNECT iX fits in the trilogy

Azure Striker Gunvolt Trilogy Enhanced launched as a bundled, polished package of the three main Gunvolt games (Gunvolt 1, 2, and 3) with added quality-of-life, music, and library content — released digitally for Nintendo Switch and PS5 on July 24, 2025 (with PC presence via storefronts like Steam). This update continues the “Enhanced” ambition: keep the trilogy current, add modes that broaden playstyles, and reward fans with new reasons to return to familiar stages. (nintendolife.com)

Inti Creates has a history of cross-pollination between its franchises (guest characters, crossover tracks, spin-offs). CONNECT iX is a neat design move: rather than just dropping Copen in as a palette swap, the mode adapts his iX toolkit and movement into a distinct scoring loop inside Gunvolt 3.

How players and speedrunners might react

• Casual players: A fun, bite-sized diversion. Five-stage runs = quick sessions, perfect for practicing movement and learning Copen’s feel without committing to a full campaign.
• Completionists: New leaderboards and high-score chasing will add another layer to platinuming or completion runs.
• Speedrunners: CONNECT iX’s short-run structure is tailor-made for route optimization and leaderboard competition. Expect communities to form new categories or integrate these runs into existing Gunvolt speedrun sets.

Because the mode leans on iX-specific tools (Bullit Dash, EX Weapons, Overdrive), mastering it will also teach transferable skills for other iX-related content and fan-made challenges.

What this update says about Inti Creates’ approach

• Iterative value: Inti Creates continues to support the Trilogy Enhanced edition post-launch, not just with balance tweaks but with meaningful content that changes how the games are played.
• Franchise cohesion: Bringing Copen into Gunvolt 3 winks at long-term fans while remaining approachable to newcomers.
• Community-first design: Short, score-driven modes encourage replayability and social competition, which helps sustain interest long after the initial release window.

Quick takeaways

• CONNECT iX is a free speedrun mode in Azure Striker Gunvolt 3 that makes Copen playable across five fast stages. (gematsu.com)
• The mode emphasizes aerial mobility (Bullit Dash), EX Weapon variety, and an Overdrive scoring mechanic tied to Kudos. (gematsu.com)
• It’s a smart crossover that rewards both casual replay and competitive speedrunning, while reinforcing the Trilogy Enhanced package as a living product. (nintendolife.com)

My take

CONNECT iX is the kind of update that tells you a studio understands its audience: it’s quick to pick up, mechanically deep, and gives players a reason to reconvene around leaderboards and clips. It doesn’t rewrite the series’ identity, but it sharpens one of its most appealing facets — fluid, expressive movement — and packages that into a mode that’s both streamable and addictive. For anyone who loves action games where graceful movement meets scoring optimization, this is exactly the sort of bite-sized content that keeps a trilogy feeling fresh.

Sources

• Azure Striker Gunvolt Trilogy Enhanced ‘CONNECT iX’ Copen mode update now available – Gematsu
  https://www.gematsu.com/2026/02/azure-striker-gunvolt-trilogy-enhanced-connect-ix-copen-mode-update-now-available

• Azure Striker Gunvolt Trilogy Enhanced – Gematsu game page
  https://www.gematsu.com/games/azure-striker-gunvolt-trilogy-enhanced

• Azure Striker Gunvolt Trilogy Enhanced has been updated to Ver.1.3.1. · SteamDB
  https://steamdb.info/patchnotes/21658907/

• Azure Striker Gunvolt Trilogy Enhanced announced for Switch – NintendoLife
  https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/07/azure-striker-gunvolt-trilogy-enhanced-announced-for-switch

• Azure Striker Gunvolt Trilogy Enhanced free update adds new mode, makes Copen playable – GoNintendo
  https://gonintendo.com/contents/57272-azure-striker-gunvolt-trilogy-enhanced-free-update-adds-new-mode-makes-copen

Go with the FLOW: Why Tales of Berseria Remastered Is the Remaster We Didn’t Know We Needed

The announcement landed like a surprise spell: Bandai Namco has revealed Tales of Berseria Remastered for modern platforms, with a worldwide release set for February 27, 2026. If you were hoping the next remaster would be Xillia 2, well—so were a lot of fans—but Berseria’s turn feels both bold and smart. Let’s talk about why this darker, more emotionally raw entry is the perfect candidate to ride the current wave of Tales remasters.

Why this matters right now

• Tales remasters have been rolling out as part of Bandai Namco’s effort to preserve and reintroduce classic entries to new hardware and audiences.
• Series producer comments earlier in 2025 explain the remaster order isn’t strictly chronological — some titles are easier to bring back because source assets are available, while others require digging for missing code. That context explains why Berseria, originally released in 2016 (Western release 2017), makes sense as the next pick. (gamesradar.com)

A hook worth stealing from Velvet

Berseria stands apart in the Tales franchise for leaning into a darker tone and a protagonist driven by grief and vengeance: Velvet Crowe. That contrast—emotionally raw storytelling paired with the series’ signature fast-paced Liberation-LMBS combat—gives the remaster a strong narrative and mechanical hook. It’s not just nostalgia; it’s a chance to revisit a game that still holds up narratively and to experience its systems with modern conveniences.

What’s actually new in the remaster

• Release date: February 27, 2026 (February 26 in Japan). Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC (Steam). Price: around $39.99 / £34.99 depending on region. (bandainamcoent.com)
• Quality-of-life (QoL) additions confirmed:
  • Early access to the Grade Shop.
  • Destination/map icons to reduce aimless wandering.
  • Toggle encounters to skip random battles.
  • Inclusion of DLC from the original release (costumes, items, extras). (bandainamcoent.com)
• Platform-specific expectations: Switch will likely be capped at 30 fps like other recent Switch ports, while PS5 and current-gen platforms may offer higher fidelity or performance options. Push Square’s coverage hints at 4K/60fps on PS5, though experience may vary by platform. (pushsquare.com)

What this decision signals about Bandai Namco’s remaster strategy

• Pragmatism over chronology: The remaster project is driven by what’s technically feasible. Older titles with fragmented source data (especially entries originally on PS3 or earlier) are harder to restore. That’s why the release cadence can feel unpredictable. Expect more surprises rather than a straight chronological march. (gamesradar.com)
• A mix of fan service and accessibility: Berseria is already available on PS4 and PC, but remastering it for current-gen consoles and Switch broadens the audience (and cleans up QoL for modern expectations). Bandai Namco is packaging nostalgia with convenience. (bandainamcoent.com)

Who wins (and who waits)

• Winners:
  • Newcomers who’ve heard Berseria’s reputation but never played it on a modern platform.
  • Returning fans who want a cleaner, more convenient experience with DLC and QoL baked in.
• Still waiting:
  • Fans hungry specifically for Xillia 2 or other PS3-era titles that have been teased but remain “in progress.” The remaster project’s technical realities mean those entries may take longer. (gamesradar.com)

Notes on performance and expectations

• Don’t expect identical experiences across platforms. The Switch port historically trends toward conservative performance targets (30 fps) while PS5/Xbox may offer higher resolutions and smoother frame rates.
• The remaster promises the usual QoL updates players now expect from modern JRPG releases—small changes that often have outsized impact on playability (maps, toggles, early access shops).

What this means for the Tales series’ future

Berseria’s remaster reinforces a twofold thesis: first, there’s still appetite for well-crafted JRPGs from the 2010s; second, the technical messiness behind older projects will shape which games get love first. Expect Bandai Namco to keep balancing fan demand, technical feasibility, and commercial sense. For fans, that means celebrating the wins (Berseria) while exercising patience for the trickier restorations (certain PS3-era gems).

A few quick takeaways

• Tales of Berseria Remastered launches February 27, 2026 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Price around $39.99 in North America. (bandainamcoent.com)
• The remaster includes QoL improvements (map icons, encounter toggles), DLC, and early Grade Shop access. (bandainamcoent.com)
• Bandai Namco’s remaster roadmap is influenced by source-code availability and technical feasibility, which explains the non-linear release order. (gamesradar.com)

Final thoughts

If you’re a Tales fan, Berseria’s remaster is a nice bridge between the old and the new: fidelity upgrades, modern conveniences, and a story that still bites. If you were holding out for Xillia 2, keep your faith—Bandai Namco has said it’s “still in progress” elsewhere—but don’t let that keep you from enjoying what’s next. Velvet’s path is one of vengeance and catharsis; playing Berseria Remastered might just remind us why the series’ emotional swings and combat FLOW are worth preserving.

Sources

• Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc., “Follow a Path Forged by Vengeance in Tales of Berseria Remastered, Releasing February 2026.”
  https://www.bandainamcoent.com/news/tales-of-berseria-remastered-available-now-for-preorder

• Nintendo Life, “Sorry Xillia 2, 'Tales Of Berseria' Is The Next Remaster From Bandai Namco.”
  https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/11/sorry-xillia-2-tales-of-berseria-is-the-next-remaster-from-bandai-namco

• Push Square, “Tales Of Berseria Remastered Confirmed For Feb. 27, 2026 Release On PS5.”
  https://www.pushsquare.com/news/2025/11/tales-of-berseria-remastered-set-for-ps5-usd40-game-out-on-27th-february

• GamesRadar, “Tales remasters are tricky because 'we have to start by finding out where the source code is'.”
  https://www.gamesradar.com/games/jrpg/like-final-fantasy-tactics-the-ivalice-chronicles-jrpg-veteran-says-tales-of-remasters-are-tricky-because-we-have-to-start-by-finding-out-where-the-source-code-is-which-is-a-bit-embarrassing/

Don’t Miss Out on These PS5 Deals: October Prime Day is Here!

Hey there, fellow gamers! If you’re anything like me, you know that the thrill of scoring a great deal is almost as satisfying as beating that final boss in your favorite game. October is here, and with it comes Amazon’s Prime Day deals, which means it’s time to gear up and snag some of the best discounts on PlayStation goodies. Whether you’re in the market for a new controller, a PSVR 2 headset, or the latest game releases, this is your moment to shine.

Why October Prime Day is a Big Deal for PS5 Gamers

Amazon’s Prime Day has become a staple for tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. This event not only offers discounts on electronics but also gives you the chance to upgrade your gaming setup without breaking the bank. For PlayStation 5 gamers, this October is particularly exciting. With the PS5 now firmly established as a must-have console, there’s a wealth of accessories and games that can enhance your gaming experience.

In recent months, we’ve seen a surge in innovative gaming technologies, like the PSVR 2 headset, which promises to take virtual reality to the next level. Coupled with new game releases that bring fresh narratives and updated gameplay mechanics, there’s no shortage of reasons to invest in your gaming experience. So, why not do it at a discount?

What’s Hot This October

As you dive into the sea of deals, here are some of the top items you should keep an eye out for:

– DualSense Controllers: The PS5 DualSense controller is known for its haptic feedback and adaptive triggers that make gameplay feel more immersive. It’s a must-have for any serious gamer.

– PSVR 2 Headset: Step into a new dimension of gaming with the PSVR 2. If you haven’t tried out VR yet, this is a perfect opportunity to explore virtual worlds without paying full price.

– Latest Game Releases: From action-packed adventures to heartwarming indie games, Amazon’s Prime Day is a great time to fill your library with must-play titles.

– Storage Solutions: With all those games, you’ll need adequate space. Look for deals on SSDs and external storage options to ensure you never run out of room.

– Game Accessories: From charging docks to premium headsets, this is a perfect time to grab those essentials that will elevate your gaming setup.

Key Takeaways

– Prime Day is a golden opportunity for PS5 gamers to snag discounts on controllers, games, and VR headsets.

– DualSense controllers enhance gameplay with their unique features, making them a worthwhile investment during this sale.

– PSVR 2 headset is set to reshape your gaming experience, and there are likely discounts available that make it more accessible.

– Game storage solutions are critical for managing your growing library and can often be found at lower prices during this sale.

– Accessories can greatly improve your gaming experience, so keep an eye out for deals on peripherals.

Wrapping Up

In a world where gaming is constantly evolving, taking advantage of October Prime Day deals is a savvy way to ensure your PS5 experience is top-notch without emptying your wallet. With the clock ticking, make sure you don’t miss out on these incredible offers. Happy hunting, and may your gaming adventures be ever thrilling!

Sources

– IGN: [As a PS5 Gamer, I’d Hate to Miss These PlayStation October Prime Day Deals, and Time’s Almost Up](https://www.ign.com/articles/ps5-prime-day-deals-october-2023)

Feel free to share your favorite deals or what you plan to pick up in the comments below! Let’s make the most out of this gaming season together!

Ghost of Yotei: A New Era in Gaming that Surpasses Tsushima

If you thought the gaming world couldn’t get any more breathtaking after the stunning landscapes of *Ghost of Tsushima*, think again. The latest release, *Ghost of Yotei*, has hit the PS5, and the reviews are rolling in—each one seemingly more enthusiastic than the last. But how does it stack up against its predecessor? Spoiler alert: it appears to be a game-changer. Let’s dive into what makes *Ghost of Yotei* a standout title.

The Rise of Ghost of Yotei: Context and Background

*Ghost of Tsushima* was a critical darling upon its release in 2020, lauded for its stunning open-world design, compelling storytelling, and intricate samurai combat mechanics. Developed by Sucker Punch Productions, the game captured players’ hearts and minds, taking them on a journey through feudal Japan during the Mongol invasion.

Now, with *Ghost of Yotei*, the developers have taken the beloved formula and enhanced it further. Set in the breathtaking backdrop of Hokkaido, Japan, this sequel not only maintains the stunning visuals but also introduces new gameplay mechanics and a narrative that delves deeper into the lore and culture of the region. As the reviews suggest, Sucker Punch has managed to elevate the experience to a whole new level.

What Critics Are Saying

The early reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising the game for its rich storytelling, character development, and visual fidelity. The combat system has seen significant improvements, offering players new ways to engage with enemies and the environment.

The emotional depth of the story also seems to have taken center stage, with players reporting a more immersive experience that resonates on a personal level. In essence, *Ghost of Yotei* appears to capture the essence of its predecessor while pushing the boundaries of what players can expect from a narrative-driven action-adventure game.

Key Takeaways

– Improved Graphics and Performance: The PS5 capabilities have allowed for stunning visuals and smoother gameplay, creating an immersive experience that surpasses *Ghost of Tsushima*.

– Enhanced Combat Mechanics: Players can expect more fluid combat with new techniques and abilities, making battles more dynamic and engaging.

– Deeper Storytelling: The narrative in *Ghost of Yotei* has received high praise for its emotional depth and character arcs, offering a more poignant experience for players.

– Cultural Richness: The game delves deeper into Japanese culture, with Hokkaido’s unique flora and fauna playing a significant role in both the story and gameplay.

– Critical Acclaim: Many reviews suggest that *Ghost of Yotei* has set a new benchmark in the gaming industry, with some critics believing it could redefine open-world action games.

Conclusion: A New Benchmark in Gaming

As we explore the evolving landscape of video games, *Ghost of Yotei* stands out not just as a sequel but as a massive leap forward for the genre. With its breathtaking visuals, improved gameplay mechanics, and richer storytelling, it’s poised to captivate both fans of *Ghost of Tsushima* and newcomers alike. If the reviews are any indication, this game may just redefine what we expect from open-world adventures and storytelling in gaming.

So, whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just dipping your toes into the world of action-adventure, *Ghost of Yotei* deserves a spot on your must-play list. Get ready to embark on a journey that not only challenges your skills but also tugs at your heartstrings.

Sources

– “Ghost Of Yotei Reviews Are In, And Better Than ‘Tsushima’ – Forbes” (https://www.forbes.com)
– “Ghost of Tsushima Review” (https://www.ign.com/articles/2020/07/17/ghost-of-tsushima-review)
– “Ghost of Yotei: Everything We Know” (https://www.gamesradar.com/ghost-of-yotei-everything-we-know)

Remember to keep your eyes peeled for more updates on this exciting new title! Happy gaming!