Resident Evil 4 Remake Review
Resident Evil 4 has been reanimated on modern consoles using the DNA that made the 2005 classic so special while splicing in modernized visuals, gameplay and story, my full review.
When Capcom set out to reimagine Resident Evil 4, I was eager to see if the survival horror classic could remain true to its roots while also providing thrills for a modern audience. It's a tall order to blend a classic game with big, modern changes, sometimes it can end up an experiment gone wrong. Thankfully, the team managed to preserve the essence of the original game, while completely reinventing aspects in new, exciting ways. Leon S. Kennedy makes his return to a world of new horrors to facedown, this time with reworked controls, enhanced graphics and a reimagined storyline. Let's delve into Capcom's latest remake in the Resident Evil franchise and explore why this is its best to date.
Resident Evil 4 Details
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X|S
Reviewed on: PlayStation 5
Developer(s): Capcom
Publisher(s): Capcom
Genre: Survival Horror
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: M for Mature 17+
A rescue mission gone awry
If you played the original, you'll be happy to know that there are new story tidbits that mesh well with familiar plot points of the original. So, whether you are new to the game or returning you'll be invested in the experience. Resident Evil 4 picks up 6 years after the events of Raccoon City. You're playing as a more grizzled and battle-hardened Leon S. Kennedy - he has been recruited and trained by the U.S. government to combat the growing biological threats around the globe. At the start of RE4 Leon is deployed to rescue the president’s kidnapped daughter.
Leon follows her trail to a remote European village where he finds that the inhabitants are consumed by an infection, "Las Plagas" making them extremely violent (and creepy). From the start, you’ll be immediately immersed in the game's thick atmosphere as Leon runs into waves of enemies on his way to find Ashley.
The dire tone is set quickly and visceral combat ensues with a variety of foes, from villagers mutated by the infection to chainsaw-welding cultists. Leon must fight through these threats while tracking your mark. While there are familiar faces that return from the original, you'll have to uncover many secrets in your bid to save Ashley.
An extremely satisfying gameplay experience
The gameplay in Resident Evil 4 Remake is tight and more intense than ever, with many improvements in systems from the original game. In terms of controls, you'll find plenty of modern additions such as two-stick movement, expanded knife attacks and more ways to combo enemies.
The game also comes with a built-in auto-aim system on lower difficulties that helps make it easier for newcomers. However, those seeking a more hardcore experience can switch off auto-aim for full manual control over aiming. Combat is fast and intense with plenty of opportunities for experimentation thanks to weapon customization options, allowing players to mix and match parts for more firepower or accuracy.
The merchant also returns allowing you to purchase items and upgrade weapons to give yourself an edge. He also comes packing challenges that he'll payout if you can complete them. These offer a fun respite to test your skills and bolster your arsenal, adding a little replayability.
Graphics and performance
Resident Evil 4 Remake is a stunning visual experience on modern consoles, with improved graphics and lighting effects throughout the game. Environments are incredibly detailed with plenty of atmosphere-enhancing details such as fog, smoke, shadows and lighting. Although areas are dark, foreboding and fairly monochromatic there is plenty of variety in the areas you explore. The art direction takes a darker more serious tone from the recent Resident Evil 2 + 3 remakes.
I love the new direction as it makes Resident Evil 4 feel a lot creepier amid all the action, pulling it back to its survival horror roots. Enemies and environments have been given a makeover courtesy of the RE Engine with realistic facial expressions, textures and animations. The performance is also rock solid as I didn't experience any performance issues during my playthrough.
Game's Audio and sound design
The sound design of Resident Evil 4 Remake is top-notch with excellent ambient sounds to a creepy soundtrack that further amplifies the tension. You can often hear threats that await in the distance or in your immediate vicinity continuously layering on the scares. Weapons pack a punch and enemies groan in pain as you take them down. There are also plenty of ambient noises like cawing crows, the wind blowing, and floorboards creaking that always keep you guessing. These effects add to the overall atmosphere and make for an immersive spine-tingling experience.
Final thoughts on Resident Evil 4 Remake
Resident Evil 4 Remake is a brilliant re-imagining of the classic 2005 Gamecube horror game. It retains the original's intense action and scary atmosphere but with updated visuals and modernized gameplay. The graphics are gorgeous, taking full advantage of the RE Engine. Combat is visceral and fast-paced with plenty of options for customizing weapons to give yourself an edge against your foes. Controls have been improved so newcomers can enjoy without too much trouble and veterans can test their skills by switching off auto-aim. Audio design and soundtrack are excellent at helping set a creepy tone while bringing out the best in every enemy encounter. Resident Evil 4 Remake is a must-have for fans of the series as well as horror lovers alike. If you’re looking for a spine-tingling horror experience, it's an incredible remake and well worth your time.
Resident Evil 4 PROS
+Incredible graphics and visuals
+Vastly improved controls
+Intense combat with plenty of weapon customization options
+Immersive audio design and soundtrack.
Resident Evil 4 CONS
-Slightly limited replayability due to lack of extra content
-Enemies repeat the same lines often
Gameplay: 9.5/10
Graphics: 9.6/10
Sound: 9.8/10
Replayability: 9/10
Overall Rating: 37.9/40 (95%)
A copy of the game was provided by the developer for the purpose of this review.
About the Author - Matthew "Dapper Tux" Rondina
Matthew has been involved in all things gaming since the 8-bit era. He is a veteran of the video game and tech industry who has been passionate about technology and gaming for over 20 years. Along with being the Managing Editor of dappertux.com, he has bylines with Best Buy, Cineplex Entertainment, Mobile Syrup and Walmart. Follow Matthew’s gaming + tech adventures on twitter, Instagram and join in on the fun!
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