Fear Effect 2: Retro Helix coming to Nintendo Switch [update: release date]

October 25: Fear Effect 2: Retro Helix will be appearing on Nintendo Switch, Limited Run Games just announced in partnership with Square Enix. It’s due out in 2026.

Limited Run Games shared its plans for Fear Effect 2: Retro Helix during a LRG3 event today, which includes a future physical release.

Below is an overview of the game:

Return to 2048 Hong Kong in the groundbreaking prequel that defined style and mature storytelling for a generation.

Set two years before the events of Fear Effect, dive into a sprawling adventure that takes you from futuristic cityscapes to the lost tomb of China’s first emperor, and discover the origins of mercenaries Hana Tsu-Vachel, Royce Glas, Deke Decourt, and the enigmatic Rain Qin, in a story that blends high-tech espionage with ancient Chinese mythology and the supernatural.

Key Features

• Unforgettable Cinema: Be captivated by the iconic visual style, blending cel-shaded 3D characters with fully streaming, animated FMV backgrounds. It’s an unforgettable, graphic novel-like aesthetic that remains unique.
• Survival Meets Action: Test your nerves with the innovative “Fear Effect” system, where your combat effectiveness is tied to your heart rate. Experience a world packed with intense action, strategic stealth kills, and classic survival horror puzzles.
• Enhanced for Modern Platforms: Enjoy a timeless classic with enhanced quality-of-life features, including Save States, Rewind, Widescreen mode, Achievements, and CRT filters, to ensure an authentic experience.

The original Fear Effect came to Nintendo Switch this past summer. We previously covered the game here.

February 6: Limited Run Games has now confirmed the release date. The game is slated for February 27, 2026.