The Resident Evil 8 3rd person gameplay perspective, the Winters DLC, improved mercenaries mode, and the release of the online multiplayer RE:Verse.
But most exciting of all, it also finally confirmed that the most popular game in the franchise, Resident Evil 4 would be receiving its very own remake. From the trailers and footage shown in the reveal, it's clear that there are many updates and improvements fans can expect when the title drops on March 24th, 2023, including better graphics, new gameplay mechanics, and multiple editions of the game to choose from.
Improved Character Designs
As is to be expected with a remake 17 years after the title first released, the Resident Evil character models have improved greatly on the original designs. Though the overall feel of the models still carry some of the cheesy vibe of the originals, they've been updated for modern hardware, allowing greater range of facial movement and the ability to show more emotion.
One of the best changes that comes with this update is in the designs of Ada and Ashley. Capcom have altered their infamous outfits to eliminate fan service elements and give Ada attire more fitting for someone who has been secretly "working" alongside Wesker. It's a small change that makes the women of the story better positioned as characters with motivations of their own, rather than partly being there to satisfy the male gaze.
Crafting And Inventory Upgrade
Crafting and inventory have also received upgrades, although the iconic attache case and its little puzzle system remain. Taking abilities from later Resident Evil titles, they've brought the Resident Evil 4 Remake more in line and now allows players to craft bullets and other ammo in the inventory screen.
They've also introduced a trade mode meaning players no longer need to spend money in order to obtain rare items. This will mean players are more able to obtain coveted items like some of the best weapons in the game.
More Dynamic Gameplay
Overall, the gameplay looks a lot more dynamic. Things are at a better pace, and they've introduced new elements that will make the player experience more enjoyable. Environmental damage and the ability to duck and crawl are all new mechanics, taken from other titles in the franchise, and adding to the overall immersion of the gameplay.
With the newer and more sophisticated gameplay engines of today, Capcom were able to seamlessly upgrade these additional elements. It not only adds to the survival horror feeling, but provides gamers with more variety as they play through, allowing different ways to escape and environmental reactions in real time to player movements.
The Combat Mechanics
The ability to block the famous chainsaw attack, as shown in the gameplay trailer, means it's no longer a one-hit kill, allowing players to get more creative with their means of dispatching the killer. In the original, he would just chase the player around the village until the timer ran out or they were able to kill him; but from the trailer it looks as though there is a new option, or possibly a requirement, to fight him in a different environment to before, with the video showing him cutting off an escape route, something which did not exist in the original.
They also showcase a more extensive enemies system with the Ganados able to attack in a variety of ways, meaning combat is harder to predict and overall more interesting as the players will have to find new ways to cope with the difficult attacks. It also refreshes the system for veteran players who will get to experience the game through a different lens for the first time and try out new ways to eliminate the foes in the famous village sequence in a game that's considered one of the greatest of all time.
The Knife Has Completely Changed
In the trailer, fans saw that the knife now has the option of a close-quarters parry meaning Leon can get a lot more up close and personal with the Ganados and other enemies in the game. But it was further revealed by outlets who have had the opportunity to play the game already, that there is more to the knife combat now than in the original Resident Evil 4.
There are new takedown animations like impaling enemies from the bottom of the neck, but players also now need to be careful and choosy when using the weapon. An added durability mechanic means that the knife will break, a classic survival horror element that will add a new dimension of tension and choice to individuals' gameplay style.
It Looks Scarier
Even in the small glimpse fans got, it appears that the whole vibe of the game will be a lot scarier and more in line with their survival horror roots than the original Resident Evil 4, which often has been commented to be more of an action title than survival horror.
This can be seen through the new environments Leon walks through, already darker and more atmospheric than in the original. Although unconfirmed, even the lead-up to the first meeting with the Ganados looks to be more suspenseful, with Leon creeping through the building before the jump scare moment. If this continues throughout the game, this will be a popular change with fans who prefer stealth horror video games.
Additional editions
As is usually the way on newer titles, for an extra cost players can receive additional items in the Deluxe and Collector's Editions. The Deluxe edition includes new outfits, weapons, a treasure map, additional accessories and more. The Collectors edition has everything in the Deluxe and more, with physical elements added. Players receive the steelbook, a digital soundtrack, artbook, poster, and Leon figurine among other items.
As the outfits are an oft-talked about part of Resident Evil, the option to add more options to visuals is an appealing extra, and with the additional weapons included, these editions improve replayability value of the title. For lovers of merchandise, the Collectors edition lets them show off their Resident Evil love at home as well as in play.
Subverts Expectations
As can be seen from hands-on gameplay footage, there are changes to the system so that jump scares and character movements are new and different to the original title, such as in the section where players first meet the wolf that's stuck in a bear trap. Previously, the player could either free the wolf or leave it trapped, but in the Remake when the player come across it, it's sadly dead instead.
A small change but one that makes the game fresh and original to veteran players, as well as tugging on the heartstrings of players who know that the wolf is a pivotal and emotional attachment in the original title. By showing this, Capcom suggests there are far more surprises to come that will revitalize Resident Evil 4 for a new audience, as well as giving veteran players a new experience.
