Table of Contents
The Classic Horror Returns
Koei Tecmo and Team Ninja have announced that Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake will release worldwide on March 12, 2026 for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The news comes alongside a new trailer and the start of pre-orders, marking the long-awaited return of one of Japan’s most haunting horror series.
Initially released in 2003, Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly remains one of the most acclaimed titles in the franchise. This remake has been rebuilt from the ground up with enhanced visuals, sound, and modernised controls designed to deliver a fully immersive horror experience.
A Haunting World Reimagined
The remake introduces detailed textures, striking light and shadow contrasts, and full spatial audio that deepens the sense of dread. Ghostly presences now appear unexpectedly, reaching for the protagonist’s hands or emerging from the darkness. Failing to escape these encounters inflicts Willpower Damage, pushing players into high-tension combat scenarios.
The signature Camera Obscura returns in Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake with an upgraded combat system. Players must align their focus point precisely to inflict greater damage on hostile spirits. Hitting the right threshold unlocks Shutter Chance, allowing devastating attacks within a short window.
Executing a Fatal Frame at the perfect moment can stun enemies, and combining it with a Shutter Chance triggers Fatal Time, which lets players capture multiple shots in rapid succession for maximum damage.
Expanded Mechanics and New Features
New Camera Obscura functions will add depth to exploration and combat in the Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake. The focus system rewards precision, zoom enables ranged attacks and environmental scanning, and filters reveal hidden clues or echoes of the past. One filter, the Paraceptual Filter, extends shooting range in battle and recreates residual memories during exploration.
Beyond combat, players can now hold Mayu’s hand to recover Health and Spirit Power, reinforcing the emotional bond between the sisters. Mayu can stumble during danger, requiring help to stand, creating tense and human moments amid the fear. Collectible Charms also return, granting buffs that can be expanded through a new Charm Bag system.
Editions, Bonuses, and Pre-Orders
Fans can pre-order both physical and digital editions. The Digital Deluxe Edition includes the base game, digital soundtrack, art book, and additional costumes for Mio and Mayu. A standalone Deluxe Upgrade will also be available.
Early buyers who purchase before March 25, 2026 will receive the Wraith Charm, Peony Hair Ornaments (Red and Blue), and Kimono costumes (Red and Black). Those who pre-order digitally before launch will unlock the Spirit Charm, Cat Ears (White and Black), and classic Crimson Butterfly outfits inspired by the original release.
Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake will feature Japanese voiceovers and support for English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish text. With its updated systems and deeply atmospheric presentation, the remake promises to preserve what made the original terrifying while introducing modern refinements that will haunt a new generation of players.
Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake will release on March 12, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
