Don't Sleep on the Resident Evil 2 REMAKE Review

GAME SCORE: 10/10

Seriously, Resident Evil 2 isn't just a graphics upgrade. They fixed many bugs and issues associated with the game and added a lot of QOL features. Not only that, but the heart-pounding action from the original are still intact. The best part about RE2:Remake is that you think you're too good for the game and then one of the biggest plot twists in gaming occurs...however, the main differences between the original and remake can be found below. 

 The biggest difference are: 

1. Visuals: The most apparent difference is the graphical overhaul in the remake. The original game featured fixed camera angles and pre-rendered backgrounds, while the remake adopts a third-person over-the-shoulder perspective with modern, highly detailed graphics. The remake takes advantage of current hardware capabilities, offering realistic environments, character models, and visual effects.

2. Gameplay Mechanics: The gameplay mechanics have been updated in the remake to provide a more modern and immersive experience. The original tank-like controls and limited camera angles have been replaced with a more fluid control scheme and an over-the-shoulder camera perspective. This change enhances maneuverability and allows for more intense encounters with enemies.

3. Level Design: While the general layout and structure of locations remain the same, the remake features redesigned areas with updated puzzles, enemy placements, and environmental details. The Raccoon City Police Department and other locations have been expanded and reimagined to provide more exploration opportunities and surprises for both new and returning players.

4. Storytelling and Character Development: The remake delves deeper into the story and character development compared to the original. The narrative elements have been expanded, offering additional context and emotional depth to the events in the game. The interactions between characters, such as Leon S. Kennedy, Claire Redfield, and Ada Wong, have been reworked to provide more complex and engaging relationships.

5. Audio Design: The audio design in the remake has been enhanced to create a more immersive and atmospheric experience. The sound effects, ambient noises, and music have been updated to match the modern graphical fidelity and to heighten the tension and fear in the game.

6. Additional Content: The remake includes new gameplay elements, scenarios, and content not present in the original game. This includes the addition of the "2nd Run" mode, which provides a different perspective on the story, as well as new enemy types and encounters. These additions offer increased replay value and surprises for players familiar with the original game.

The Resident Evil 2 remake was highly regarded and well-received by both fans and critics for several reasons. Here are some factors that contributed to its success and positive reception:

• Faithful Recreation: The Resident Evil 2 remake maintained the essence and atmosphere of the original game while modernizing it for contemporary audiences. It captured the same survival horror experience that made the original so memorable, while introducing updated visuals, gameplay mechanics, and controls.
• Visual and Audio Enhancements: The remake showcased impressive graphics and visual effects, leveraging the power of modern hardware to create highly detailed environments, character models, and atmospheric lighting. The enhanced audio design, including realistic sound effects and a chilling soundtrack, further contributed to the immersive experience.
•  Improved Gameplay Mechanics: The remake introduced updated gameplay mechanics that enhanced the overall experience. It implemented an over-the-shoulder camera perspective, similar to the one used in Resident Evil 4, allowing for more dynamic and intense encounters with enemies. The controls were refined, offering smoother movement and aiming, which improved the gameplay flow.
• Engaging Level Design: The level design in the remake was meticulously crafted, offering a mix of tight corridors, interconnected areas, and puzzles that required exploration and problem-solving. The Raccoon City Police Department, the main setting of the game, was recreated with attention to detail, providing a sense of familiarity to fans of the original while also introducing new surprises.
• Fear and Tension: The remake successfully captured the sense of fear and tension that is synonymous with the Resident Evil franchise. The oppressive atmosphere, limited resources, and formidable enemies created a constant feeling of vulnerability and the need to carefully manage supplies and make strategic choices.
• Character Development: The remake showcased improved character development and storytelling compared to the original. The protagonists, Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield, were given more depth and personality, and their interactions with other characters added emotional weight to the narrative.
• Replayability and Multiple Scenarios: The remake introduced multiple scenarios, allowing players to experience the story from different perspectives and uncover additional details. Each playthrough offered unique challenges, item placements, and encounters, encouraging players to replay the game to discover all its secrets.

The Resident Evil 2 remake's success can be attributed to its ability to honor the beloved original while delivering a fresh and engaging experience. By modernizing the visuals, gameplay mechanics, and storytelling, it captivated both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise.