Stuart Gipp and SuperGreatFriend rank the Resident Evil games in a lively discussion, analyzing gameplay mechanics, sharing mixed feelings on specific titles, and exploring the evolution of the series. They touch on game design, co-op mechanics, character dynamics, and provide insights into the strengths and flaws of different installments.
Resident Evil 4 revolutionized the series with free-aim shooting, intense enemies, and immersive world-building.
Resident Evil 0 lacked engagement due to stiff controls, disconnected antagonist, and frustrating gameplay mechanics.
Resident Evil Remake enhanced gameplay with challenging puzzles, atmospheric tone, and intricate treasure system.
Resident Evil Code Veronica received mixed reviews for broken mechanics, lackluster narrative, and frustrating puzzles.
Resident Evil 3: Nemesis balanced action elements with intense Nemesis encounters and varied gameplay mechanics.
Resident Evil 2 revamped the series with dual campaigns, survival horror elements, and memorable boss encounters.
Deep dives
Resident Evil 4: A Game-Changing Entry
Resident Evil 4 revolutionized the series with its departure from traditional gameplay elements. Implementing a free-aim shooting mechanic, it shifted the focus from evasion to extermination. The game maintains a tense atmosphere with large enemy hordes and intense set pieces. The addition of the merchant and intricate treasure system enhanced gameplay. Resident Evil 4's memorable boss fights, satisfying combat, and immersive world make it a standout entry.
Resident Evil 0: A Misfire in the Series
Resident Evil 0 failed to deliver a compelling prequel experience, with stiff controls and cumbersome item management mechanics. The linear progression and lackluster character dynamics left players unengaged. The antagonist, a man made of leeches, felt disconnected from the series lore. The absence of item boxes and the intricate puzzles added unnecessary frustrations to gameplay.
Resident Evil Remake: Immersive Horror Experience
The Resident Evil Remake enhanced the original game with updated visuals and immersive gameplay. It maintained a tense and atmospheric tone, offering challenging puzzles and engaging combat. The iconic mansion setting was recreated beautifully, adding depth to the survival horror experience. The addition of new elements like the Crimson Head zombies and the intricate treasure system enriched the gameplay.
Resident Evil Code Veronica: Mixed Reception
Resident Evil Code Veronica received mixed reviews due to its linear progression, frustrating puzzles, and lack of memorable set pieces. The game's broken mechanics, such as item management and unwinnable boss battles, hindered player experience. While featuring some engaging boss fights, the narrative and character dynamics fell short of capturing players' interest. The reliance on item placement instead of item boxes added unnecessary complexity to gameplay.
Resident Evil 3: Nemesis
Resident Evil 3: Nemesis garnered varied opinions with its action-oriented gameplay and intense Nemesis encounters. While praised for its multiple routes and improved gameplay mechanics over its predecessor, some players found the game lacking in horror elements and character development. The inclusion of a persistent Nemesis stalker added tension to the gameplay, but the game's linear progression and focus on action over horror left some fans disappointed.
Resident Evil 2 revamped the series with improved gameplay mechanics, branching campaigns, and intense survival horror elements. The game's dual-route system and compelling storylines for Leon and Claire provided a unique gameplay experience. Players appreciated the game's polished gameplay, atmospheric environments, and memorable boss encounters, making it a standout entry in the Resident Evil series.
SGF's Summary
Resident Evil 7 was a substantial shift back to horror, emphasizing a creepy tone and first-person gameplay. SGF found the beginning reminiscent of PT and enjoyed the tension it built. Despite the slow start, the intensity significantly increased once the action began. The Baker family added charisma and terror as villains. The DLC, particularly End of Zoe, left a positive impression. The game's variety of locations, gore, and exploration in first person elevated the experience. SGF acknowledged Ethan's lack of depth but loved the horrifying and insane thrill of the ending. Overall, Resident Evil 7 impressed SGF, earning a rating of 3.
Stew's Summary
Resident Evil 7 had a divisive impact on Stew, who struggled with the gameplay mechanics and zombie resilience. The visuals and aiming adjustments were appreciated, but the inability to efficiently eliminate zombies was frustrating. Mr. X's iconic presence was exciting, yet his threat level felt underwhelming in some scenarios. Puzzles involving plugs were tedious for Stew, leading to the eventual use of DLC for infinite weaponry. Despite acknowledging the game's merits, Stew's experience with Resident Evil 7 concluded with a rating of 12.
Alex's Summary
Resident Evil 7 presented a departure from the series' previous direction, with a focus on horror and a shift to first-person gameplay. This change intrigued Alex, especially after testing the demo, which evoked PT's creepy atmosphere. The entry into the Baker family's narrative impressed Alex, blending charisma and terror as villains. The DLC, particularly End of Zoé, expanded the thrilling experience. Alex appreciated the game's mix of location variety, gore, and first-person exploration, despite the minimal depth of the protagonist, Ethan. Resident Evil 7's horrifying and intense ending left a lasting positive impression, earning a rating of 4 from Alex.
Resident Evil 2 Remake: A Stalker-Type Enemy Done Right
The Speaker praises the design and execution of Mr. X in Resident Evil 2 Remake, highlighting his transformation into a menacing and omnipresent threat. Unlike the original game, Mr. X now actively stalks the player across different locations, increasing tension and strategic gameplay decisions. The presence of Mr. X creates a sense of urgency and fear, making encounters more intense and unpredictable, providing a fresh and immersive experience within the game.
Resident Evil 3 Remake: A Streamlined Yet Enjoyable Experience
The Podcast delves into the reception of Resident Evil 3 Remake, acknowledging mixed sentiments due to streamlining and shorter gameplay. Despite criticisms, the speaker appreciates the enhanced combat mechanics and movement in the game, particularly praising the dodge move. The game's format of exploring different locations like the city streets, hospital, and park provides a varied and engaging gameplay experience. While some fans were disappointed by Nemesis' less dynamic presence, the speaker finds the game enjoyable and replayable, ultimately rating it positively for its action-packed gameplay and memorable moments.
Wow, what a hootenanny! Host Diamond Feit recruits Stuart Gipp and SuperGreatFriend to enter the world of survival horror and rank every canonical game in the Resident Evil series.
Retronauts is made possible by listener support through Patreon! Support the show to enjoy ad-free early access, better audio quality, and great exclusive content. Learn more at http://www.patreon.com/retronauts
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