Resident Evil: Requiem Review
Throughout its 30 years, Resident Evil has transformed significantly, evolving from the slower-paced survival horror of its early titles to the action-packed style seen in Resident Evil 4 and its sequels. Following a return to its roots with Resident Evil 7, its sequel, Village, pushed the action further, featuring moments of extreme intensity, such as Chris Redfield battling werewolves. This evolution isn’t unexpected, as even in the earlier, more measured installments, the series showcased an inherent tendency towards dramatic climaxes.
Introducing Resident Evil: Requiem
Resident Evil: Requiem, the ninth main entry (excluding Zero and Code Veronica), uniquely captures both the quiet intensity and explosive action the series is known for. The game features two protagonists, Grace Ashcroft and Leon Kennedy, whose gameplay styles contrast sharply, with Grace focusing on exploration and puzzle-solving reminiscent of earlier titles, while Leon’s segments amplify the frenetic action of Resident Evil 4. This duality shines in the strong first half but becomes muddled in the second act due to an increasing reliance on nostalgia.
The Journey of Grace Ashcroft
The game opens from Grace Ashcroft’s perspective as she investigates a murder at the Wrencroft Hotel, a site with personal ties due to her mother’s past death there. As she navigates this eerie venue full of grotesque experiments and memories, players are introduced to classic elements reminiscent of previous games in the series. The atmosphere of exploration and puzzle-solving evokes fond memories of iconic locations like the Spencer Mansion.
Gameplay Mechanics
The initial gameplay shines with a nostalgic atmosphere; the optional Classic difficulty introduces limited-use ink ribbons for saving progress. Grace’s chapters integrate some modern updates from Resident Evil 7, such as a first-person view and a focus away from shooting every zombie. The tension is palpable as an unkillable creature stalks her, creating a deeper feeling of vulnerability. Players must manage limited ammunition, often resorting to clever strategies to survive, making encounters feel more intense.
Leon Kennedy’s Experience
Leon S. Kennedy also returns, providing a stark contrast to Grace’s slower narrative with high-octane action. Although he displays signs of fatigue and carries a serious ailment, he remains a charismatic, albeit exhausted, hero. His story occasionally intersects with Grace’s, offering brief action-packed sequences that serve as a refreshing change from her more methodical exploration.
A Shift in Focus
However, as gameplay shifts from Grace to Leon, the action begins to feel less engaging. Nostalgia occasionally overshadows new ideas, mimicking familiar scenarios from the series while failing to innovate. The final segments miss the mark, leaning heavily on callbacks and risking a repetitive feel, even if Leon’s combat moments maintain a degree of excitement.
Closing Thoughts
After three decades, Resident Evil: Requiem strives to balance the legacy of the series with contemporary elements. While its initial parts excel, the game sometimes falters as nostalgia takes precedence, affecting its overall impact. Nevertheless, it continues to entertain and engage a dedicated fanbase.
