Most Polarizing Resident Evil Games

Highlights

Resident Evil 4 revolutionized action-horror, but fans remain split on later entries’ shift to more action-focused gameplay.
Resident Evil 6 faced backlash for straying too far from the series’ roots, but fans seeking over-the-top action may still enjoy it.
Resident Evil Village balances action and horror, providing a gripping experience even if it deviates from previous entries’ style.

As a long-time fan of the Resident Evil series, I must say that my journey with these games has been as thrilling and unpredictable as any zombie outbreak itself! From the tense, terrifying moments of the original titles to the high-octane action of some more recent installments, I’ve seen it all.

The classic game series Resident Evil, renowned for its action-horror blend, initially gained fame with tank controls, leaving players on edge due to restricted save points and scarce resources for battling zombies. Many gamers view Resident Evil 4 as a pivotal moment in the series’ history. Its emphasis on action and a quirky allure made it one of the most impactful and acclaimed games within this genre. The fourth mainline title is particularly noteworthy for introducing the over-the-shoulder third-person shooting combat style that is now ubiquitous, which it successfully implemented.

Many enthusiasts claim that this point marked the height of the series, with subsequent installments drawing mixed reactions due to doubts over the series’ direction, as both fans and critics expressed their concerns. Following a necessary break, Resident Evil has reclaimed its charm and continues to impress gamers. Its technical mastery, gripping gameplay, and chilling ambiance make these games more engrossing than ever before. Given the widespread popularity of this franchise, it’s understandable why so many dedicated fans have differing views on the quality of each game within the series.

5 Resident Evil 3: Nemesis

Too Short Despite Featuring An Iconic Villain

For enthusiasts who adored the blend of horror and resource management, the initial two “Resident Evil” games were an unparalleled source of delight. During that period, the term “survival horror” was ubiquitous, and it’s not hard to understand why numerous “Resident Evil” imitations aimed to capture the genre-defining success of these influential titles. Consequently, it’s no surprise that fans found “Resident Evil 3” underwhelming due to its shorter playtime compared to the first two games. The absence of fresh ideas in the game didn’t aid in alleviating this disappointment.

If we disregard the lofty benchmarks set by earlier games, Resident Evil 3 can certainly be considered as legendary as the first two games. Jill Valentine is undeniably one of gaming’s most memorable characters, while the terror evoked by Nemesis still sends shivers down the spines of countless fans. The game is excellent, but its flaws are more noticeable here, which is why the remake of Jill’s adventure has also faced similar criticism for the same reasons.

4 Resident Evil 5

The Focus On Action & Co-op Left Fans With Mixed Emotions

In simpler terms, many believe that Resident Evil 4 is among the best video games ever created. People expected even greater success with the next installment in the series. However, certain aspects of Resident Evil 5 have left fans scratching their heads to this day. The reduced horror elements and emphasis on cooperative action were quite perplexing. It’s not hard to understand why fans of the traditional Resident Evil style felt let down by what this game had to offer.

Regardless of any issues it might have, it’s tough to ignore the thrilling action gameplay found in Resident Evil 5. Playing it with a friend can make it an enjoyable experience that fans won’t forget, especially if they take the time to try it out. While it may not meet the lofty expectations of its predecessor, those seeking an entertaining, engaging co-op action game will find plenty to appreciate in this title.

3 Resident Evil 6

A Game People Love To Hate Or Defend

It was evident that Resident Evil 5 received a divided response from fans, with many expressing disappointment due to its focus on action sequences and boulder-punching, which deviated from what traditional Resident Evil enthusiasts expected. Consequently, the release of Resident Evil 6 further infuriated fans because it lacked horror elements, had a complex narrative, and took things to an exaggerated level. This suggested that Capcom was prioritizing commercialization and capitalizing on current trends over maintaining the unique aspects that made the series legendary initially.

In essence, the general consensus among fans seems to be one of disapproval due to unmet expectations. However, for those seeking high-octane action, engaging gameplay, and cooperative features, Resident Evil 6 is a title they’ll enjoy immensely. The game boasts a refined finish and offers a distinct campaign structure. Each of the four primary characters gets their moment in the limelight as they obliterate whatever obstacles come their way.

2 Resident Evil Village

The Focus On Action & Horror Disappointed Fans Of Resident Evil 7

In the eyes of many, Resident Evil 7 marked a resurgence in the series’ traditional style. Building upon the success of PT, Capcom opted to change the viewpoint of the games to first-person perspective and introduce a fresh protagonist searching for his wife who had been kidnapped by the Baker family. The audience anticipated that Capcom would continue this gameplay style, but instead, Resident Evil Village veered towards a more action-oriented focus and relied on thrilling set-pieces and startling moments.

It’s indisputable that “Resident Evil Village” is an exceptional video game. The chilling level where a monstrously deformed baby stalks players demonstrates that the game can tap into its horror origins effectively when needed. Some parts of the game might not meet the expectations of long-time fans, but the grandeur and refinement of this production will keep players engaged until the finale, particularly those who find themselves drawn to the narrative.

1 Resident Evil 4 (2023 Remake)

Players Still Wonder If It Lives Up To The Legacy

2023’s remake of “Resident Evil 4” has been highly praised as one of the top games from that year. Updating a game widely regarded as flawless and groundbreaking was quite a challenge, but the remake offers a fresh entry point for new fans to experience Leon Kennedy’s iconic journey through a Spanish village overrun by Las Plagas. The refined technical aspects and novel gameplay elements to modernize “Resident Evil 4” have been well-received. Nevertheless, whether it matches the esteem of the original is a debate for another day.

For long-term admirers of “Resident Evil 4”, the cheesy vibe of the original story was cherished, but it appears to have been stripped away in the remake. This change might be justified due to the evolution of game storytelling since 2005, yet the gameplay modifications also seem to apply. “Resident Evil 4” revolutionized third-person shooter mechanics back then, whereas the remake’s gameplay is perceived as generic and lacks the novelty that fans have come to expect from such groundbreaking titles. The thrill of parrying a chainsaw in the remake is undeniable, but it falls short of the innovative gameplay mechanics that made “Resident Evil 4” an iconic game in its early days.

2024-08-20 10:35