In Resident Evil: Revelations 2, players follow Claire Redfield and Moira Burton as they are kidnapped and taken to a mysterious island facility. As they navigate the facility, they encounter various threats, including infected creatures and hostile forces, while uncovering the dark secrets behind their abduction. The game features a dual character system, with players switching between Claire and Moira, each with unique abilities, to solve puzzles and combat enemies. The episodic structure of the game adds to the suspense, with each episode revealing more about the story and characters.
Resident Evil: Revelations 2 was developed and published by Capcom, released episodically starting in February 2015. The game was made available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PlayStation Vita, and Microsoft Windows on 2015 and later released on Nintendo Switch on November 2017. Unlike its predecessor, Revelations 2 was not released on the Nintendo 3DS. The decision to release the game episodically was a departure from traditional full game releases, aiming to provide a more serialized and suspenseful experience. The game’s development focused on delivering a compelling narrative, engaging gameplay mechanics, and maintaining the survival horror elements that the series is known for.
Gameplay
The gameplay in Resident Evil: Revelations 2 combines elements of survival horror and action. Players control Claire Redfield and Moira Burton, each with distinct abilities that are essential for progressing through the game. Claire is equipped with combat skills, while Moira possesses a flashlight that can reveal hidden items and enemies. The game features a dual character system, requiring players to switch between characters to solve puzzles and combat enemies. Combat involves using firearms and melee attacks, with limited ammunition adding to the tension. The episodic format allows for cliffhangers and narrative twists, keeping players engaged throughout the game’s release.
Visuals & Style
Resident Evil: Revelations 2 utilizes the Capcom MT Framework engine, delivering detailed environments and character models. The game’s visuals are designed to create an atmosphere of tension and unease, with dark, confined spaces and dim lighting enhancing the horror experience. The character designs are realistic, with attention to detail in their expressions and movements. The art direction emphasizes a gritty, industrial aesthetic, reflecting the game’s themes of isolation and survival. The use of shadows and lighting plays a crucial role in setting the tone, with sudden flashes revealing lurking threats and adding to the suspense.
Importance in Survival Horror History
Resident Evil: Revelations 2 is significant in the survival horror genre for its return to the series’ roots, focusing on tension, atmosphere, and resource management. The episodic release format was innovative, allowing for a more dynamic storytelling approach and keeping players engaged over time. The game’s dual character system re-introduced gameplay mechanics that may be similar to Resident Evil Zero’s mechanics with its own spice, requiring players to think strategically and utilize each character’s abilities effectively. By balancing action elements with traditional survival horror, Revelations 2 appealed to both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.
Reception vs Historical Value
Upon release, Resident Evil: Revelations 2 received generally positive reviews from critics and players. The game’s story, character development, and co-op gameplay were praised, while some criticized the graphics and technical issues. The episodic format was well-received for its pacing and suspense, though some players noted that the story’s complexity could be challenging to follow. Historically, the game is seen as a successful entry in the Resident Evil series, revitalizing interest in survival horror and influencing future game development in the genre.
Availability & Collectibility
Resident Evil: Revelations 2 is available digitally on platforms such as Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, and Nintendo eShop. The game was released in both episodic and complete season formats, with the complete season offering all episodes and additional content. Physical editions were also released for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox One,Xbox 360 and Switch (2017) often including bonus content like Raid Mode stages and costumes. While not considered rare, physical copies can be collectible, especially for fans seeking to complete their Resident Evil collections.
Get it on:
Steam: Resident Evil Revelations 2 on Steam
Xbox: Buy Resident Evil Revelations 2 Deluxe Edition | Xbox
PSN: Resident Evil Revelations 2 – PS4 Games | PlayStation – Games | PlayStation® (US)
Nintendo: Resident Evil Revelations 2 for Nintendo Switch – Nintendo Official Site
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