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The Resident Evil franchise has seen its ups and downs. Experiences with later entries like Resident Evil 6 left many yearning for a return to the series’ survival horror roots. Resident Evil 2, not simply a remaster, but a full-blown remake of the 1998 classic, delivers exactly that, proving that sometimes, the best path forward is rediscovering the past.

alt text describing Leon aiming his gun in a dark corridor in Resident Evil 2 Remake

This isn’t a mere graphical upgrade. Capcom has meticulously rebuilt Raccoon City Police Department and its surrounding areas, transforming familiar environments into claustrophobic labyrinths of dread. The RE Engine renders every shadow, every bloodstain, with horrifying realism, amplifying the game’s tense atmosphere.

alt text showing the detailed environment of the RPD main hall in Resident Evil 2 Remake

A Modern Classic Reimagined

Resident Evil 2 excels in its level design. Each room, each corridor, is a puzzle box, demanding careful exploration and resource management. Finding a key to unlock a new area, or discovering a crucial item to progress, evokes a satisfying sense of accomplishment. This classic gameplay loop, reminiscent of older survival horror titles, is executed flawlessly.

The game’s pacing is expertly crafted. There’s a constant push and pull between exploration and survival. You’ll want to scour every corner for resources, but the ever-present threat of zombies and other creatures keeps you on edge. The limited inventory space forces you to prioritize and strategize, making every item feel precious.

alt text displaying a screenshot of the inventory screen in Resident Evil 2 Remake, showcasing the limited item slots and item management system

Sound design plays a crucial role in building tension. The shuffling of nearby zombies, the creaking of floorboards, the guttural growls of Lickers, all contribute to a palpable sense of unease. Even opening a door becomes a nerve-wracking experience, as you never know what awaits on the other side.

alt text depicting Claire Redfield carefully aiming her weapon while navigating a dark hallway in the RPD, emphasizing the tense atmosphere and gameplay of Resident Evil 2 Remake

More Than Just Zombies

Combat is impactful and visceral. Unlike action-heavy titles, Resident Evil 2 emphasizes strategic retreat and careful aiming. Ammunition is scarce, and simply spraying bullets won’t cut it. Every encounter is a test of your resourcefulness and nerve.

The Tyrant, or Mr. X, adds another layer of tension to the proceedings. His relentless pursuit forces you to constantly adapt your strategy. While his presence can be unsettling, his predictable AI and lack of meaningful rewards for defeating him diminish his impact somewhat.

alt text showing a close-up of a zombie in Resident Evil 2 Remake, highlighting the game's realistic graphics and gruesome detail

A Missed Opportunity

While the “A” and “B” scenario system promises replayability, its implementation falls short. The differences between the two campaigns are minimal, leading to a sense of repetition. The core narrative and level design remain largely unchanged, squandering the potential for a truly branching narrative.

alt text showing Leon examining a key item in Resident Evil 2 Remake, showcasing the game's focus on puzzle-solving and item interaction

A Return to Form

Despite its flaws, Resident Evil 2 is a triumph. It recaptures the spirit of the original while embracing modern technology and game design principles. It’s a tense, terrifying, and ultimately rewarding experience that sets a new standard for survival horror.