Image: Capcom
Hello, fellow gamers! Today, we're going to delve into the shadowy world of the Resident Evil 4 Remake, a revamped version of the iconic survival-horror game from Capcom. As a devoted fan of the Resident Evil franchise and a survivor of the original Resident Evil 4, my anticipation levels were off the charts. So, without further ado, let's talk about the new, the old, and the undead in this Resident Evil 4 Remake review.
Gameplay (9/10) Returning to the role of Leon S. Kennedy was a nostalgic treat. Resident Evil 4 Remake maintains the over-the-shoulder third-person shooter mechanics that made the original a genre-defining masterpiece. The controls feel tight and responsive, providing an intuitive, immersive experience whether you're solving intricate puzzles, exploring eerie locales, or defending yourself against hordes of infected villagers.
Capcom has made sure to bring some new elements to the table, enhancing the original gameplay without losing its essence. Notably, the combat mechanics have been refined, making the encounters with enemies feel more dynamic and intense. However, some could argue that the ease of aiming and dodging reduces the survival-horror tension that the original game was famous for.
Graphics and Sound (9/10) Resident Evil 4 Remake is visually impressive. The RE Engine breathes new life into the sinister Spanish countryside and its grotesque inhabitants. Enhanced lighting effects and detailed textures contribute to a profoundly atmospheric experience.
The sound design deserves praise as well. Every growl, shriek, and distant footstep can set your nerves on edge, while the chilling score sets the mood perfectly. The voice acting has also been updated, preserving the original's campy charm while enhancing the overall quality.
Story and Characters (8/10) The remake follows the same plot as the original: Leon is on a mission to rescue the President's daughter, Ashley Graham, from a mysterious cult. However, the narrative has been enriched with additional context and character development that help to flesh out the story without compromising the original plot's pace and structure.
While Leon's wisecracking persona is intact, the expanded backstory and dialogue make him feel like a more developed character. Ashley, however, can still feel like a burden at times due to her AI's occasional lapses in pathfinding and decision-making.
Resident Evil 4 Remake offers a fantastic blend of nostalgia and innovation. It manages to preserve the essence of the original while enhancing every aspect of the game. The few minor issues don't detract from what is an impressive accomplishment: a worthy remake of one of the most influential games of all time.
Overall Score: 8.7/10