The Fate/Samurai Remnant Switch Version’s Better than I Expected

When a game is coming to multiple platforms at once, there can be a concern about which version might be best. Especially if one of the platforms might be considered less technologically impressive than the others. I was almost wondering this about Fate/Samurai Remnant and its Switch version, especially since I thought the trailers were gorgeous. However, it’s a situation where yes, this iteration is absolutely fine. It might not be as fluid and impressive as, say, the PS5 or PC one, but it’s still well worth the time.  

Of course, there are really no issues in combat. I didn’t notice any lag. An ample number of enemies would appear. Given that Fate/Samurai Remnant relies more on observing enemies to know when to use a heavy attack against opponents glowing red, certain enemies are shielded, and boss-type foes’ guard is down, it’s clearly different from other Musou games. Yes, your fights typically won’t be “fair” in terms of numbers. But this isn’t a situation where you’re always against hundreds. Enemy numbers can be in the 10s, 20s, and 30s, which ensures things move at a good pace.

It’s more when you’re exploring larger areas that someone might notice a difference between platforms. I’ve seen the environment and character models look a bit crisper on the PC version, compared to the Switch one, but Fate/Samurai Remnant still looks fine. Especially when played on a smaller screen, as all of my time was spent in handheld mode. The only time it really become a noticeable issue is when there would be the overview “movies” when heading to a new area. There’s be a bit of lag or stuttering as it would sweep over an area of Edo, rather than a smooth, flawless, gorgeous situation.

However, any Fate/Samurai Remnant cinematics also looked pretty good on the Switch. Even if there was a lot going on, it still left a great impression. I’d almost notice the backgrounds would seem a bit more muted when such situations would arrive, rather than affecting the quality of character models. It meant you could still focus on the all-important characters. Not to mention if it was an active moment, the actual movements of the Servants and Masters ended up stealing the spotlight and distracting from any technical issues.

But when I think about it, I shouldn’t have been surprised or concerned. Omega Force has been doing a pretty great job on Musou games for the Switch for years. Yes, they do tend to really excel when they’re made just with the system in mind, like with Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes or Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity. But even the multiplatform games like Persona 5 Strikers, One Piece Pirate Warriors 4, and now Fate/Samurai Remnant, are always perfectly serviceable on the Switch. 

I suppose what I’m saying is Switch owners who are interested in Fate/Samurai Remnant shouldn’t worry about its performance. It’s fine here. Yes, it might look a bit sharper and run smoother on the PS4, PS5, or PC. However, the Switch version of the game is still a really fun and unique Musou experience.

Fate/Samurai Remnant is available for the Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, and PC.