In Resident Evil HD Remaster, players assume the roles of S.T.A.R.S. members Jill Valentine and Chris Redfield, who are dispatched to investigate a series of grisly murders on the outskirts of Raccoon City. Upon arrival, their helicopter is shot down, forcing them to take refuge in a nearby mansion. Inside, they uncover horrifying secrets about the Umbrella Corporation’s experiments, battling grotesque creatures and solving intricate puzzles to survive and escape. The game emphasizes resource management, atmospheric tension, and survival horror elements, offering a chilling experience as players navigate the eerie mansion’s dark corridors and hidden chambers.
Resident Evil HD Remaster is a remastered edition of the 2002 GameCube remake of the original 1996 Resident Evil game, developed and published by Capcom. Released on January 20, 2015, for PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows, the remaster enhanced the original with high definition visuals, improved audio, and modernized controls. The game aimed to preserve the core survival horror experience while updating technical aspects to meet contemporary gaming standards. It received positive reviews for its faithful recreation of the original, with improvements that enhanced the overall gameplay experience.
Gameplay
Resident Evil HD Remaster retains the fixed-camera perspective and tank controls of the original, which contribute to its tense atmosphere and strategic gameplay. Players can choose between two control schemes: the original “tank” controls or a more modernized scheme that allows for smoother movement. The game features resource management, where players must carefully allocate limited ammunition and healing items. Puzzles are integrated into the environment, requiring players to find and use items in specific ways to progress. The remaster also includes an optional “Wesker Mode,” allowing players to experience the game from the perspective of the antagonist, Albert Wesker.
Visuals & Style
The remaster boasts high definition 1080p visuals, with enhanced character models and pre-rendered backgrounds that retain the original’s artistic style. The lighting effects have been improved, adding to the game’s atmospheric tension. The audio has been remastered to increase the sampling rate, and 5.1-channel output is supported, providing a more immersive sound experience. Players can switch between the original 4:3 aspect ratio and a new 16:9 widescreen mode, offering flexibility in presentation. The remaster also includes a new voice acting track, though players can opt for the original voice acting if preferred.
Importance in Survival Horror History
Resident Evil HD Remaster is significant in the survival horror genre for revitalizing a classic that helped define the genre. By updating the visuals and controls, Capcom made the game accessible to a new generation of players while preserving its original design and atmosphere. The remaster also set a precedent for future remakes and remasters in the industry, demonstrating how to modernize a classic without losing its essence. It highlighted the enduring appeal of survival horror and the importance of maintaining the core elements that make the genre compelling.
Reception vs Historical Value
Upon release, Resident Evil HD Remaster received generally favorable reviews from critics and players. The game’s visuals, atmosphere, and faithful recreation of the original were praised, while some criticized the fixed camera perspective and tank controls as dated. Historically, the remaster is seen as a successful update to a classic, bringing it to modern audiences and preserving its place in survival horror history.
Availability & Collectibility
Resident Evil HD Remaster is available digitally on platforms such as Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, and Nintendo eShop. The game was released in both digital and physical formats, with the physical editions often including bonus content like wallpapers and art books. While not considered rare, physical copies can be collectible, especially for fans seeking to complete their Resident Evil collections. The digital versions remain accessible, allowing new players to experience the remaster at their convenience.
Get it on:
Steam: Resident Evil on Steam
Nintendo: Resident Evil for Nintendo Switch – Nintendo Official Site
Xbox: Buy Resident Evil | Xbox
PSN: Resident Evil
Trailer: