From the moment Capcom revealed the existence of Resident Evil 2's remake, the thought on everyone's mind has been whether they would revamp the iconic Resident Evil 4 for modern audiences - or if it was even necessary in first place.
Still, many dreamed of the day when they'd see that rural Spanish village reimagined in the RE Engine - and that day is finally here. So, whether you're an experienced RE4 player or a total newcomer, you may wonder whether the remake is worth the price of admission. Is Resident Evil 4 Remake Worth It?
Review
If you're wondering whether this reimagining of Resident Evil 4 managed to wow players, the answer is a resounding yes. In Eric Switzer's review of this hotly anticipated remake, he delves into all the factors that make the game shine - especially when compared to the original. Where the original's pacing faltered, or where it was bloated and tedious, the remake is streamlined and sleek. No wonder he gave it a 5-star rating.
It has exceeded my high expectations across the board, and it represents Capcom's best-ever work on the series.
New additions to the game, such as knife durability, parrying, stealth, and a larger focus on exploration in completely transformed areas, allow you to approach scenarios differently, adding an almost immersive sim quality. Switzer embraced this newfound versatility, noting that expressive playstyles were a first for the Resident Evil series.
However, Leon isn't the only person with an overhaul in ability. Switzer points out that Ashley received a lot of development that, while not totally erasing the burden of protecting her, does ease it significantly. For example, her health bar has been traded for a system that allows her to take infinite hits, with the catch being you have to help her back to her feet each time. Still, this, coupled with the ability to direct her to different positions and her uncanny ability to vacate battlefields when things get a little sticky, are welcome improvements.
The only criticism Switzer noted was the lack of development between the game's core duo - especially when compared to some of gaming's other famous pairs. Modern games tend to focus on the relationships that drive their main characters, and while 2023's Leon and Ashley get more than their original counterparts, their dynamic could have been further fleshed out.
Switzer emphasizes how perfectly Resident Evil 4 Remake balances its survival horror roots with its hammier inclinations, remarking that it never fails to deliver on tense horror - or cheesy one-liners and over-the-top action. Concluding his review, Switzer states: "Normally, I'd still find time to nitpick some minor annoyance or under-baked section, but I just don't think games get much better than this."
Time Expenditure
Resident Evil 4 is a fairly linear game, and its remake is no different. Our reviewer completed his first run on Hardcore Mode in around 20 hours, so you can expect your visit to the rural, horribly corrupted Spanish countryside to be reasonably quick - though Leon and Ashley would probably ask you to be a little speedier.
If you'd like to extend your trip to this quaint locale, New Game+ is waiting for you. New Game+ carries over all your items, maps, money, and any upgrades you've made to your arsenal, as well as all the knowledge you gained during your first run through the campaign. This mode is invaluable if you're trying for 100% completion - and will likely add at least another 10 to 15 hours to your playthrough.
Resident Evil 4 Remake is meant to be replayed, so there are several difficulties to choose from. If you want a challenge, you can bump up to Hardcore Mode. If you want to suffer in the best way possible, Professional Mode is available as soon as you beat the main campaign.
There is currently no gameplay-based DLC available for Resident Evil 4 Remake, though the series' staple Mercenary Mode is primed to release in early April as a free addition to the core experience.
Cost
The standard version of Resident Evil 4 Remake retails for $60 on PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows. A deluxe edition, which includes several cosmetics for Leon and Ashley and an expanded treasure map and exclusive weapons, is a little more expensive, coming in at $70.
If you've already bought the standard edition, but think the mall-goth version of Ashley is a must-have, each costume DLC is $5, with Leon's solo costumes being slightly cheaper at $4. The Map DLC, which adds a few more treasures to discover in the game, is also $5, and all the DLC weapons are $3. Of course, you don't have to buy these things individually - the DLC bundle, which essentially "upgrades" your standard edition to the deluxe version, is around $25.
And, if you're a die-hard (pun intended) Resident Evil 4 fan, a collector's edition is available for a hefty $250. You get the deluxe version of the game, a Leon S. Kennedy figure, a collectible box, a digital soundtrack, an art book, and a map. Rest easy knowing your Leon figurine is guarding your home against parasitic horrors.
What Players Are Saying
Absolutely Worth It - Amanda Hurych
Resident Evil 4's remake is exactly what a remake ought to be. It keeps everything that works, even enhancing the best aspects of it, and while it sheds the more troublesome parts, it does so in a way that stays true to what was so beloved about the original. It's the definitive way to play Resident Evil 4 now.
Yes - Matt Arnold
Whether you've played the original or not, Resident Evil 4 Remake shines as a worthy successor to one of the most beloved games in the series. The combat feels great, and there are surprises for both newcomers and longtime fans.
It's Definitely Worth It - Branden Lizardi
The RE4 Remake is the best rendition of one of the most beloved video game of all time. It has that perfect ratio of action, puzzle, and plot that leads to a gripping experience with each chapter. If you're even vaguely curious about playing, then it will be worth your while.