The iconic light gun shooter series “The House of the Dead” is poised to make a comeback, as recent developments suggest the imminent release of “The House of the Dead 2: Remake” for Nintendo Switch. This news has ignited enthusiasm among fans of the zombie-slaying franchise, while also rekindling discussions about the series’ untapped potential in virtual reality.
Originally announced in September 2019 alongside its predecessor’s remake, “The House of the Dead 2: Remake” has been shrouded in mystery for nearly five years. However, the game’s recent ratings by both PEGI and the ESRB indicate that an official announcement may be just around the corner.
The ESRB has assigned the game an “M” (Mature 17+) rating, citing blood, gore, and violence. Their description paints a vivid picture of what players can expect: “From a first-person perspective, navigate through the city while using pistols to shoot and kill zombies and mutant creatures. Killing creatures often results in decapitation and/or dismemberment, with large blood-splatter effects.”
Set in Venice, Italy, the game follows an agent searching for a missing colleague amidst a zombie outbreak. The ESRB summary promises fast-paced combat, accompanied by “gunfire, screams of pain, and large explosions,” staying true to the series’ arcade roots.
While fans are excited about the Switch release, many are questioning why Sega hasn’t adapted the franchise for virtual reality. One fan expressed this sentiment succinctly: “The fact this hasn’t been put to VR is a mystery.” The immersive nature of VR technology seems well-suited to the game’s first-person perspective and intense action, leading some to view this as a missed opportunity.
The reception of the previous remake on Switch was mixed, with some players reporting performance and control issues. As such, many are hoping that the developers have addressed these concerns in the sequel, ensuring a smoother experience that lives up to the legacy of the original arcade classic.
As anticipation builds for an official announcement, fans of “The House of the Dead” series find themselves at a crossroads – excited for the upcoming Switch release, yet yearning for the franchise to embrace new technologies like VR. Whether shooting zombies on the go or dreaming of a more immersive experience, it’s clear that the appetite for undead-slaying action remains as insatiable as ever.
