Published: July 17, 2024 Author: JasonDarkX2 Category: Gaming,Reviews
If you ever wondered if remakes of classic games are ever worth playing through. Then you haven’t played, Resident Evil 2 (2019) and Resident Evil 3 (2020). Which are modern masterpieces that brilliantly re-imagine classic survival horror gaming. As a long-time fan of the franchise, diving into these remakes was like revisiting old haunts with a fresh perspective, and I was not disappointed.
If you waited this long to consider picking up the game, you wouldn’t have to fret about <$15 price tag for each game individually when on sale. But the best time to pull the trigger is during Halloween sales, where Resident Evil games are bundled together. Like the Raccoon City Edition which bundles both games for <$25 or wait for the Halloween Resident Evil Humble Bundle for around $25ish which bundles almost every Resident Evil games lol which was my pick. Although the gotcha in Humble Bundle is either you don't get the latest game or have to purchase the expansion DLCs separately. Thankfully Resident Evil 2 & 3 DLCs are mostly optional costumes/skins and early access to in-game rewards you can easily unlock yourself.
Resident Evil 2 taking place in the iconic Raccoon City Police Department during the T-Virus outbreak, you either play as Leon S. Kennedy on his first day at RPD or Claire Redfield on her way to RPD in search of her brother. The 12 hour narrative remains as captivating as ever, with new layers of depth added to familiar plot lines. The dynamic relationship between Leon and Claire adds emotional weight to the survival horror experience, making every narrow escape and heart-pounding encounter even more memorable. The alternate routes each character takes encourages exploration, making Resident 2 feel more open.
Whereas Resident Evil 3 a more linear point A to B, feels more like an 8 hour complementary DLC to Resident 2 rather than a full game in my opinions. Although with a shorter play time than Resident Evil 2, I found myself constantly running away from the Nemesis as Jill Valentine or fight off hordes of zombies as Carlos. More than having to slow down to solve puzzles, manage inventory or figuring out routes to get around zombies all while conserving ammo on higher difficulty. The need to be slow, carefully maneuver around while conserving ammo is more prevalent on Resident Evil 2 professional difficulty. In contrast to Resident Evil 3 professional difficulty you got to move fast, utilizing side stepping and wasting health resources is more punishing when you get to a boss battle.
But the fast-paced action in Resident Evil 3 keeps adrenaline levels soaring, while the seamless integration of cinematic cut scenes ensures that the narrative remains engaging from start to finish. Exploring the desolate streets of Raccoon City is a harrowing experience, with every alleyway and storefront hiding new dangers and opportunities for survival.
Being remakes, both Resident Evil 2 & 3 updated controls and camera angles enhance game play mechanics. Making them easier to play and enjoy compared to the slow and clunky tank controls of the originals and older games. Paired with the stunningly detailed graphics, having Ray-Tracing enabled really brings out the visuals. Offering a perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation. Exploring the labyrinthine corridors while solving puzzles and fending off hordes of zombies is as exhilarating as ever.
In terms of replayability both games have you doing collectibles or simply replaying the same campaigns on different difficulties and/or meeting certain time trial or criteria like less than three saves during a playthrough. Giving you at least around 20 to 35 hours total playtime in each game depending how quick you are at speed runs. But in my opinions Resident Evil 2 campaign felt it made for speed running, with shortcuts and paths that will considerably cut down your run time. Where as Resident Evil 3 is more linear, remembering puzzles and where every is placed is good enough. But the reward of infinite ammo and an infinite rocket launcher is what really keeps player enticed replaying the game.
Overall Resident Evil 2 & 3 remakes are undoubtedly a worthy addition to have in your collection if you're into zombie apocalypse survival or new to Resident Evil games. Honestly if you waited this long to consider picking these games up. You're certainly rewarded with an exceptionally valued Single-Player game at a reasonable price tag when they are on sale.
The Good:
- Visuals and atmosphere.
- Immersive Resident Evil story.
- Modern controls and Gameplay mechanics.
- True Resident Evil Single player experience.
The Bad:
- No co-op.
- Resident Evil Resistance unplayable addition.
- Professional Difficulty may be too challenging.
- Wow factor ends after several playthroughs.
Is it still worth it?: Hell Yeah
Tags:
Game Review,
PC Games,
Resident Evil