Resident Evil Revelations Review
Resident Evil began as a survival horror game that took the gaming industry by storm, and despite its clunky controls, people loved it for the fear they felt while playing it. Throughout the years the game shifted directions towards a more action oriented play style, which some fans have come to understand, while others despise. Now the question remains, does Resident Evil Revelations strike the perfect balance between the two?
The plot takes place between Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil 5, and throughout the game you’ll be playing as a multitude of characters, including: Jill Valentine, Chris Redfield and Parker Luciani- Jill’s new partner. The year is 2005 and a new bioterrorist group known as “Il Vitro” is being tracked by Chris. Unfortunately, his signal is lost and his last known whereabouts lead to him being stranded on the SS Queen Zenobia. Jill is sent in by the BSAA to find Chris, but she finds herself in a trap that will have her face new B.O.W’s that have been infected by the T-Abyss virus, a new strain derived from the T-virus. The game also features many flashbacks which will have you playing in Terregrigia, a lost city in the ocean.
Together Again!
The game looks phenomenal, and the 3D is absolutely stunning. It is the 3DS at its best and one could easily mistake the graphics for something on a console. The animations are nice and smooth. The only shortcoming is the character models which only have one facial expression for most of the game. This is a forgettable flaw however as you’ll be playing from a ” behind the shoulder” perspective. Environments are nicely detailed, and fit the gameplay perfectly. Enemies look creepy and innovative; and they will most certainly scare and gross out even veterans to the series. Cut scenes look amazing and are very nicely done, and the CG looks breathtaking with the 3D turned up to the highest setting. The only other noticeable flaw is when the game loads, and characters begin to slow down; as this only takes place when there isn’t any action going on, it doesn’t harm the gameplay, just the visuals. Other than a few blemishes, the game looks fluid and stunning.
The gameplay is Resident Evil at its finest and handles very much like its console counterparts, only this time players will be able to shoot and move simultaneously. The controls inherently feel familiar and comfortable, and players will find that picking it up and playing is almost second nature, despite not having a second circle pad. Environments enhance the overall game experience as they play a huge role in the atmosphere they set. Playing as Jill in the cramped and damp corridors of the Queen Zenobia truly gives one the sense of fear that a game like Resident Evil is known for, yet playing as Chris in the more open environments definitely shows off the new action filled direction the series is taking. Overall, the mixture of both play styles demonstrates that Capcom has found the right balance. A new tool that players will use a lot is the scanner that will allow you to scavenge for ammo (which will definitely feel scarce at some points, and just enough in others) as well as look for handprints and other collectables. The Enemies are unique and fun to kill, and some strategic elements are added with certain enemies that will transform depending on where they are hit. The T Abyss virus thrives in water, a substance that is very malleable, and this comes through in the game as enemies will pop out of washing machines, ducts and many other places in order to frighten you and take a bite out of you. Boss fights are very intricate, and they will test players nicely. Certain bosses are large and slow, but pack a mean punch, whereas others are small but will come running at full speed towards the player. While the game feels very much like a console-like experience, it is broken down into chapters which are broken down into episodes. The beginning of every episode starts with a “previously on Resident Revelations” which further demonstrates just how portable the game is.
Bosses are Frightening and Disgusting, Enjoy Killing Them!
In terms of longevity, the campaign will last most players a good 10 to 12 hours; however, Capcom has included a new mode known as “raid”. Raid mode essentially allows up to 2 players to travel through levels they’ve experienced in the main story and defeat enemies until they’ve reached a golden coin. When a player reaches a golden coin, they will be rewarded with a score depending on their time and enemies killed. Also, light RPG element is added, as you’ll gain levels, as well as different guns that will only be usable depending on your level. This new mode is really fun, and can be tackled alone or online with friends or random players.
Another added element is the “Streetpass” feature which ties into the achievement system. As you pass other people with a copy of Resident Evil Revelations, you will be rewarded with things like ammo and herbs, as well as challenges for the Raid mode. The achievement system in the game is basic, but players will find plenty of challenge in completing it. As achievements are done, new costumes and weapons are unlocked for both single player and raid mode.
Resident Evil has amassed a lot of hate for forgetting about its survival horror lineage and Capcom is consistently trying to find the right balance between what Resident Evil used to be, and what it is becoming. Resident Evil Revelations for the 3DS has found a nice equilibrium between the frightening elements of the past, and the action packed gameplay of the present.
Score
Summary: A fantastic blend of both new and old keeps this series afloat. Fans of the series should definitely check this game out as it's a perfect Resident Evil experience in the palm of your hand.
4.6
About the Author
Michael Petco+ The essentials about me: I am 21 years old, I have completed one year of of my Game Development program at Algonquin College, I absolutely love Nintendo, I enjoy such authors as Michael Crighton, Michio Kaku, H.G Wells, and many more. I spend most of my time being a server at an old folks home, I play lots of video games, and I spend a lot of time at the gym.
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