Resident Evil 4 is one of the most iconic and influential games in the survival horror genre, and the 2023 remake does a fantastic job of bringing the classic to modern hardware. Available for PlayStation, Xbox and PC, Capcom has done an excellent job of updating the game’s graphics, mechanics and pacing, while still retaining the elements that made the original such a beloved classic – no small feat because the original game was the first in the series to step away from the old fixed camera approach and therefore already felt more “modern” than the previous games Capcom remade.
The updated graphics in the remake are stunning. The highly detailed character models, environments, and lighting effects make the game feel truly next-gen on the PS5. The game’s visuals are especially impressive during cutscenes, where the characters look almost lifelike. The game runs at a smooth 60 frames per second and supports 4K visuals, which makes for a fluid and immersive experience.
The DualSense controller support is also a standout feature of the remake. The haptic feedback and adaptive triggers add an extra layer of immersion to the game. When you’re firing a gun, you can feel the resistance of the trigger as you pull it, adding an extra layer of tension to the experience. The haptic feedback also adds to the game’s atmosphere, with subtle vibrations that add to the sense of dread and danger.
The remake stays true to the story and overall structure of the original game from 2005. Players once again take on the role of Leon S. Kennedy, who is sent on a mission to rescue the President’s daughter, Ashley Graham, who has been kidnapped by a mysterious cult in a remote European village.
The story remains tense and full of twists and turns, with players uncovering a conspiracy involving a powerful parasitic organism known as Las Plagas. Along the way, players will encounter a cast of memorable and terrifying enemies, including the chainsaw-wielding Dr. Salvador and the towering giant, El Gigante.
One significant difference when it comes to the story in the remake is the voice acting. The original game’s voice acting has become somewhat of a meme over the years, with many fans finding it unintentionally hilarious. The remake features updated voice acting that is more in line with modern standards, which may disappoint fans who enjoyed the original game’s unintentional charm.
New voiceovers or not, the game’s story remains gripping and engaging, with plenty of memorable moments that will keep players on the edge of their seat. Whether you’re a fan of the original game or a newcomer to the series, the story of Resident Evil 4 is sure to keep you entertained from start to finish – and there’s new and exclusive content to discover in the game’s New Game+ mode too, giving you a reason to go back in.
However, there are some changes to the game’s mechanics and pacing that make it feel more modern. For example, the game now features a quick turn move, which can help you quickly escape from danger. Additionally, the game’s inventory system has been revamped, making it more streamlined and easier to manage.
One of the most significant changes in the remake is the control scheme. The game’s iconic “tank controls” have been replaced with a more modern control scheme. While this change may disappoint some purists, it does make the game more accessible to newcomers who may be unfamiliar with the original control scheme. Another change is removal of the original’s quick-time events, but although some will remember those with a degree of nostalgia we can’t say we missed them.
Despite very minor drawbacks, the 2023 remake of Resident Evil 4 is an excellent update to a classic game. The updated graphics, mechanics, and pacing make the game feel fresh and modern while still retaining the elements that made the original such a classic. The DualSense support is a standout feature, adding an extra layer of immersion to the experience – as do the beautiful visuals. If you’re a fan of survival horror games or the original Resident Evil 4, the 2023 remake should definitely be near the top of your list.
Score: 9.4/10
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