¡Welcome, survival horror enthusiasts! In our journey through nightmares, we delve into the most thrilling comparison yet: Resident Evil 4 Remake vs. the original. Has Leon S. Kennedy evolved with more than just a change in appearance? Are the villagers more terrifying than before? Let’s discover together how this new version redefines the classic we all know and love!
Before starting this review of this great Remake, let’s tell you a bit about the story of this game. The original version of Resident Evil 4 was originally released in 2005 for consoles like PlayStation 2 and GameCube. Over time, it was ported to other consoles such as Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. In June 2022, the Remake of Resident Evil 4 was announced, and they certainly generated quite a bit of hype! That’s why today I’ll share my opinion on this game.
Warning: This review contains spoilers from the story to compare it with the original game and explain the details that changed and improved.
What we liked the most
Here, the essence and plot of the original game are revered and treated with respect, bringing back the unforgettable story of Leon S. Kennedy but with a modernization that redefines the experience! Discover below all the exciting transformations that make this remake a gaming masterpiece.
Mechanics
Pointing with the gun
In this new remake, we now have the ability to aim and move simultaneously, a substantial improvement over the original game where we were static while aiming, vulnerable to hordes of enemies. Resident Evil 4 Remake redefines the dynamics by allowing us to move while aiming, although the intensity of the challenge remains intact.
Running
Like the previous remakes, we have the ability to run; however, in this game, the sensation is of a slightly higher speed compared to Resident Evil 2 Remake and Resident Evil 3 Remake. The fluidity of the movements adds a new level of intensity to the experience.
Stealth
Now, incorporating a new strategic dimension, we have the option of stealth by crouching. This tactic allows us to stealthily attack enemies from behind, giving us the ability to eliminate them efficiently or significantly reduce their health by skillfully using our knife.
Knife
Following the tradition of the previous game, we have the ability to upgrade our knife in Resident Evil 4 Remake, adding an additional layer of strategy. However, the durability of the knife remains the same. In other words, every time we encounter the merchant, we must make tactical decisions not only about upgrades but also about repairing the knife to ensure it is always in its best shape.
Parry with the knife
This new feature grants us the ability to dodge attacks with the knife, whether it’s axes, attacks from armed enemies, or any other danger. When performed at the right moment, it triggers the option to execute a kick or a shot, providing us with unique tactical versatility. This feature definitely transforms the gameplay, adding dynamism by allowing us not only to shoot but also to actively engage in strategic combat.
Zombies
Zombies have evolved in Resident Evil 4 Remake, displaying superior collective intelligence. Now, they tend to strategically group together, seeking opportunities to attack as a unit. If you don’t escape in time, you’ll face imminent danger—from being taken out by a precise axe blow to the possibility of being cut by a chainsaw if one is in the vicinity. This improvement in enemy AI creates a tangible challenge and adds an additional layer of intensity when facing the hordes.
Exploration
Exploration in Resident Evil 4 Remake takes a significant turn. Now, we can venture into the fascinating lake area, where a new horizon of possibilities unfolds when taking control of a boat. The expansiveness extends even to the nooks of the castle, allowing us to roam without restrictions. This more expansive approach transforms the experience, as every corner may hide valuable treasures or challenging missions to discover.
Dialogues
The dialogues in Resident Evil 4 Remake undergo a significant improvement, especially in the case of the characters Luis and Ashley. Where interaction was limited before, a series of dialogues has now been added, providing an additional layer of personality to these characters. These new conversations reveal deeper nuances and offer a more immersive experience, allowing us to get to know Luis and Ashley better throughout the plot.
The merchant & the missions
Resident Evil 4 Remake follows the successful formula of its predecessor by introducing intriguing side missions, managed through the merchant. These missions add a new dimension to the map, preventing the experience from feeling empty. Now, we embark on the search for hidden treasures on rooftops and challenging blue medals to complete missions. This dynamic elevates our attention to the environment, creating a deeper immersion in the plot. Although we also found missions in the original game, here, the reward can be more strategic, maintaining suspense and excitement in every explored corner.
Graphics
Resident Evil 4 Remake introduces a darker and more somber touch to its gameplay, with a color palette that immerses us in a more intense and enveloping atmosphere, creating a constant sense of threat. This darker twist adds tension and excitement, transforming the experience into an authentic journey into the heart of survival horror.
As the images demonstrate, the original version appears with a lighter tone and a less eerie atmosphere compared to the Remake, which adopts a darker and more somber tone. This transformation in the color palette and atmosphere creates a significant visual impact, immersing players in a more engaging experience. The aesthetic evolution contributes to intensifying the feeling of horror and suspense.
It’s worth mentioning that we tested this Remake with the following specs:
Ryzen 7 5700x
Ram: 32Gb
Rx 6650xt
M.2 500Gb
This configuration allowed us to enjoy this game with an average FPS of 87 frames with a medium-high graphical setting on a 1920x1080p monitor.
On the latest-generation consoles like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, Resident Evil 4 Remake offers two distinct modes to cater to players’ preferences. The Quality mode provides stunning 4K resolution with the inclusion of Ray Tracing for an immersive visual experience. On the other hand, the Performance mode prioritizes smoothness with a resolution of 1440p and a frame rate of 60 FPS, delivering a more dynamic gameplay experience. This flexibility allows players to customize their experience based on their visual and performance preferences in this new iteration of Resident Evil 4.
What we didn’t like
The way of guiding and commanding Ashley:
Even though the system for commanding Ashley has significantly improved compared to the original version, there is still room for perfecting the orders we can give her. Interacting with the Ashley character remains a key aspect of the game, and while progress has been made in its dynamics, there is still potential to further optimize the experience and make instructions even more intuitive and precise.
Little changes in the story (spoiler)
We understand that some of the modifications in Resident Evil 4 Remake may generate divided opinions, especially when it comes to iconic scenes and significant changes in the narrative.
The reinterpretation of key moments, such as the rescue of Luis, who is in a closet tied up in the original game, and in the remake this rescue takes place in a basement; or the rescue of Ashley: in the original, Lord Saddler appears, but in the Remake, we escape from the church and Lord Saddler speaks to us through the power of the virus.
There were also eliminations and substitutions of sections, such as the cable car, which was changed to a chase; the foundry where there was a lot of fire was completely eliminated in the Remake; the pursuit of Salazar’s puppet with Quick Time Events was replaced by a more “realistic” version.
Likewise, the part with the garbage hook was removed, the laser beams that we experienced during gameplay with Leon S. Kennedy were moved to the DLC that we can play with Ada Wong; also, a section of the maze where we faced an enemy was removed.
Without a doubt, this remake seeks to offer a new perspective and surprise even players most familiar with the original plot, but this can generate conflicts with those (like us) who love the original. There are those who prefer total fidelity to the original content and those who will see these changes as good alternatives.
Conclusions
This Capcom game is the best remake; they have put all the love it deserves. They managed to bring it up to the level of the original game, and in certain sections, it even surpasses it. This Remake is a must-buy for all Resident Evil fans. We must mention that Leon S. Kennedy has never looked so good, and when making the comparison with the original game, we can only applaud, standing up, with a very slow applause, and celebrate that this moment has arrived. Don’t think twice; it’s one of the best games of 2023.
PS: we believe this should have been the ending. We hope you guys feel the same way. :’)
“In many ways, the work of a critic is easy. We risk very little, yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and their selves to our judgment.”
My bio is not based on the prior. Hi, I’m Mr.Código24 and I like video games, watching movies and anime. During the day I’m an accountant, and during the night I’m a gamer at heart.
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