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Capcom surprised everyone with the chilling FPS experience of Resident Evil 7, a horror delight best enjoyed in virtual reality. Now, they're taking inspiration from the iconic Resident Evil 4, a game that marked a significant turning point in 2005. Is this a winning move?
Ethan's Dark Descent
Three years after the harrowing events of Resident Evil 7, Ethan and Mia Winters find themselves thrust into a mysterious Eastern European village, courtesy of Chris Redfield. The narrative unfolds amid dark forces, supernatural powers, and a family with a taste for human flesh. The game revolves around encounters with four main bosses, intricately woven into the central hub of the village. Despite some predictable scenes and noticeable writing conveniences, the story successfully merges with the gothic architecture, embodying a Resident Evil reboot that captivates players.
Semi-Open World Horrors
Capcom's decision to infuse Resident Evil 4 DNA into Village pays off. Now semi open-world, the game rewards exploration, demanding thorough searches of muddy paths and numerous back-and-forths. Ethan's agility limitations persist, but new guard mechanics and enhanced combat dynamics make the gameplay engaging. While the creature variety sees improvement, there's room for more diversity in the iconic bestiary of the series.
Two Acts, One Soft Underbelly
The game's construction around four bosses, with the village as a central hub, provides a semi-linear experience. However, two acts in the middle of the game feel like a soft underbelly, with straightforward phases and mundane back-and-forths. Despite this, Village remains playable and enjoyable, even without virtual reality, showcasing atmospheric horror moments and well-executed puzzles.
Inventory Nostalgia and Crafting Evolution
Resident Evil 4's influence is evident in the inventory system and weapon upgrades, bringing a sense of nostalgia. The crafting system evolves with an emphasis on ammunition manufacturing, adding a layer of strategic resource management. The game's scarcity-driven tension, reminiscent of RE4, is present but could benefit from more frequent occurrences.
Technical Brilliance and Artistic Mastery
Tested on a high-end iMac, Resident Evil Village showcases the power of the RE Engine. The macOS version offers comprehensive settings with clear impact indicators, highlighting Capcom's progress in mastering PC versions. The game's varied atmospheres, supported by four thematic bosses, present stunning visuals that instill unease. The technical and artistic aspects of Resident Evil Village stand unassailable.
In the Name of the Rose
Despite a soft underbelly in the middle of the game, Resident Evil Village brilliantly follows the path of RE7, infusing it with the DNA of RE4. With technical prowess, a gripping story, and a ten-hour adventure filled with horror and action, Capcom's latest installment offers a captivating experience for series veterans and newcomers alike. Resident Evil Village earns a commendable 8.5, making it a highly recommended journey through the terrifying world of Ethan Winters.
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