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Wednesday, October 15, 2025
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Metro 2033: Redux – Survive the Mutant-Infested Russian Underground

Metro Series
By
Petko
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Metro 2033 Redux - Front Cover
Metro 2033 Redux - Front Cover

Title: Metro 2033 Redux
Developer: 4A Games
Publisher: Deep Silver
Released: August 26, 2014
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4
Platforms Available: PC Game, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Linux, macOS
Article Reading Time: 7 minutes

Step into Metro 2033: A Post-Apocalyptic Survival Game 

The story is based on the book of the same name by Dmitry Glukhovsky. It takes place in Metro 2033 in the year 2033 (surprisingly!) in Russia after a nuclear war(surprisingly!). The Earth’s surface as we know it no longer exists. Harsh and inhospitable conditions prevail everywhere, and humanity has had to take refuge underground, in this case, in the vast complexes of the Moscow Metro. Some stations have been turned into small settlements teeming with the lives of dozens of people waiting to return to the surface once more. Unfortunately, even in the Metro, people are not safe. Most stations face constant mutant raids and, last but not least, a brand newly – horribly dark. 

The main character is a young man named Artyom, who also serves as the narrator in the game. His station has become the target of frequent attacks, resulting in a dwindling fighting force and never-ending waves of mutants. Artyom is tasked with traveling to the remote Polis station to seek assistance. It becomes evident that things will be more complex than they seem. “Metro 2033” was developed by the relatively new studio, 4A Games. Upon closer examination, it is revealed that its founders originally came from Ukrainian GSC Game World., the creators of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series, and this influence is apparent in the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Tutorial: Navigating the Dark Tunnels

The game opens with a brief tutorial, introducing players to fundamental gameplay mechanics such as using a gas mask and navigating through tight spaces. The story then shifts to the past as the protagonist, Artyom, begins recounting his experiences. With over 20 chapters, the game offers approximately ten hours of gameplay on normal difficulty. The initial gameplay experience is captivating, with the first half hour standing out as one of the most intense and engaging introductions in the video game industry at the time.

Immersive World-Building: Exploring the Populated Subway Stations

The populated subway stations are bursting with life. People are talking amongst themselves, small children are chasing each other amongst the adults, food or homemade weapons are being sold, pigs are being bred nearby, etc. Unlike in Stalker, however, you can’t dialogue with people, take side quests, or trade (with a few exceptions). 

You won’t find that in Metro. So everything just acts as a visual gateway that makes the world perfectly believable, and you get along with it beautifully. As I’ve already described, Stalker is similar in world and gameplay, but you have to forget about the vast world whole of side quests. There’s simply no room for anything like that in the dark tunnels of the Metro. 

The game is more similar to the Call of Duty series, where you go through a closed corridor from point A to point B without the possibility of getting lost, and with the help of many scripts, that make the game a truly luxurious experience. You’ll rarely be alone on your journeys through the subway tunnels, and the teammates, aided by dozens of scripts, draw you into the game perfectly.

Combat Encounters: Facing Human Enemies and Mutant Threats

As for combat, I have to differentiate between human and mutant combat. The humans, i.e., bandits, fascists, communists, and others that can be encountered in the tunnels, are good to fight against. Artificial intelligence may not work 100% at times, but it has its bright moments when the enemies cover and cooperate. Stealth techniques can be employed in places, where you’ll be turning off lamps, avoiding traps and pitfalls that would attract a curious patrol (broken glass, hanging cans), and trying to dispatch one by one in silence. Sometimes, it is possible to get through the parts this way, and sometimes not, but you can’t say that stealth is just for show.

Facing mutants presents an even more significant challenge due to their tendency to attack in large groups, their ability to endure multiple shotgun blasts to the head, and their knack for depleting your ammo reserves. Dealing with mutants can be incredibly frustrating and intense, creating a nightmarish experience within the game. Moreover, mutants often swiftly close the distance and engage in chaotic close-quarters combat, making it extremely difficult to aim precisely.

Weapon Variety and Ammunition: Usual Scavenging for Survival

There are just enough weapons in the game. In addition to a knife, pistol, and dynamite, you can also carry a shotgun and a submachine gun. They are nicely processed, but I missed some information about the effectiveness or accuracy of each weapon. Several times during the game, you will be at a shopkeeper who will offer you several new pieces, or you will have the opportunity to exchange your current one for one you just found. Still, you would look in vain for any comparison with the current one.

The game uses old pre-war ammunition as payment, which is far more effective than homemade ammo. You can rearm with it anytime, but I recommend doing so only in the most urgent cases, as you can practically shoot out all your “funds” that way.

Audiovisual Excellence: Crafting a Believable Post-Apocalyptic World

What the game really excels at is the audiovisual design. Rarely will you have a more immense expanse in front of you. Hence, the developers could play with even the finest details and design a believable post-apocalyptic world. The old and dark tunnels of a long-abandoned subway have never looked better. Several times during the game, you even get to the frozen surface of war-torn Moscow.

Minor Drawbacks and Final Thoughts on Metro 2033

As for the gameplay, I’d say that such a pure RPG might not be wrong, but at least a few elements, like in the Stalker mentioned above, would be enough. For example, an inventory or the ability to get better armor or parts to upgrade weapons. All that can be collected are weapons and ammo, and even more so, by collecting them directly from the bodies of fallen enemies. If the corpse of a bandit is lying on its stomach, for example, you can’t see if it has a machine gun clip attached to it at all. Hence, you need to be more alert and thorough in your search for valuable ammunition.

So, in the end, we get, as I said, a linear corridor shooter like Modern Warfare. The subway map is huge, but you only look at a fraction of the stations. However, a slightly more open world with a few optional stations made the game more lively.

Metro 2033 is an excellent survival action game. It stands out for its ultimate atmosphere of a post-apocalyptic world (which, by the way, was conceived initially) . These are smaller colonies of people in stations fight against aggressive mutants but also against each other. Game offers a tremendous audiovisual treatment, which presents a natural spectacle together with a bunch of scripts. It is spoiled by occasionally frustrating fights with mutants and a few minor bugs. it’s a super-decent game that, despite its similarities to the Stalker series, has its own identity that no action game fan should really miss.

Metro 2033 Purchase Options

Experience the haunting depths of post-apocalyptic Moscow in Metro 2033 Redux on Steam as PC Game, Mac Os Game or on Steam handheld.
Get Scared in fantastic postapo Metro 2033 Redux on PlayStation Store
Survive the mutant-infested tunnels by purchasing Metro 2033 on GOG.
Immerse yourself in the atmospheric world of Metro 2033 on the Xbox Store in a bundle.
Explore the dark and gripping story of Metro 2033 on the Epic Games Store.
Shake your hands with your Nintendo Switch playing Metro 2033 Redux

Resident Evil 4 Remake: Another Great Revival of a Horror Icon

Resident Evil
By
Petko
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Resident Evil 4 Remake - Leon Shooting Excelent Close Up
Resident Evil 4 Remake - Leon Shooting Close Up

Title: Resident Evil 4 Remake
Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom
Released: March 24, 2023 on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, and PC
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5
Article Reading Time: 10 minutes

Introduction: The Legacy of Resident Evil 4 

Resident Evil 4 has long been one of the most popular installments in the franchise, alongside the second game. When the original game came out in 2005, there was a lot to praise. This action-horror adventure impressed with its approach to storytelling, revolutionary third-person view with over-the-shoulder aiming, the evolution of the game’s universe with a significant change of setting, boss fights, and overall styling and atmosphere. 

But what was once revolutionary is now, at best, a complete staple or, at worst, an outdated element. This was a hugely important and, more importantly, ambitious project for the developers at Capcom. With something so beloved, all it takes is one misstep, and it can all come crashing down like a house of cards. Most importantly, though, that script version only happens here.

Reimagining a Classic: Balancing Old and New

Now that I’ve said the word script, it’s appropriate to start with it because you can already see the direction the remake takes. As we may have become accustomed to from the remakes of the second and third installments, Capcom doesn’t try to copy every event or dialogue. And the same is true this time around. Half and half. The central story points, with some exceptions, happen in the same order; you’ll be walking around the same, albeit often modified, locations and fighting the same enemies. Therefore, the original game’s core has been retained in this respect. However, it has also been improved, even expanded in some cases, or the order of events has been changed. But the core remains the same – you and Leon are sent to find the president’s missing daughter, Ashley, somewhere in a Spanish village. Of course, it will take a lot of work… But I don’t need to say more. The new player will see for himself.

A More Serious Tone: Enhancing Character Depth and Relationships

The original’s unique yet slightly far-fetched style is now more in the background and has been replaced by a more severe presentation. On the one hand, this may be a mistake for some, but the reality is that this is something established and, more importantly, consistent with the previous remakes and new installments. And something that fits the modern form of the franchise perfectly. Leon jokes a little less, performs fewer athletic feats, and takes everything more seriously. At the same time, Ashley finally comes across as at least somewhat of an intelligent person and not a hell-raiser like in the original…

Most importantly, a lot of moments are set in more believable situations. You can see that beautifully in chapter eight, for example. The reason Leon and Ashley are separated this time is not because she suddenly runs away from him in a panic attack and, like a complete fool, walks into an obvious trap that, moreover, seems random and somewhat artificial. The reason for the split now has a lot more depth, which results in the expansion of both Ashley and Leon’s characters and their relationship for the rest of the play. And it doesn’t just apply to them. Even though some cutscenes have been shortened, all of the characters are given more space, depth, and meaning. Story-wise, the remake of Resident Evil 4 is thus a surprising experience, which has matured much more in relation to the original, and its original frequent ailments have been removed. I also have a favorable view of the gameplay. As with the original release of the individual episodes, it goes more and more towards an action shooter. The enclosed corridors of the police station or the action-packed streets of Raccoon City are replaced by the setting of a Spanish village and its immediate surroundings, including a giant castle. Stupid zombies are replaced by villagers with interest in the occult. Here, the core of the original remains, and more importantly, it proves, among other things, how timeless the original game was. 

Gameplay Evolution: Adapting to Modern Standards 

Still, some changes had to be made as the original game was, after all, 18 years old at the time of the release of its remakes. The main one is the whole movement and combat system. Leon is a bit more experienced in the remake, so he can now shoot and walk simultaneously, which was impossible in the second remake. The developers were fearless in experimenting with new things that stuck to the idea of the original setup and, at the same time, things they only worked with in the latest installments. There are even some mechanics that are entirely new to the series. Overall, it makes for something that veterans will recognize and fall in love with anew, but also something that will offer them the chance to look at the game in a new way. 

Stealth and Resource Management: New Mechanics, New Challenges

To be more specific, there is now stealth. With Leon, you can duck and sneak at any time. Larger locations full of villagers can only partially silently traversed. Still, it allows you to get a feel for the area and, more importantly, quietly take out a few before it comes to open combat. There’s also a new weapon that allows you to fire arrows with the ability to take out enemies silently at a slightly greater distance. Yes, combined with stealth, even this may seem like a form of simplification. But some buts balance it out again. Your knife, which can be destroyed this time. Any use of it, whether it’s just silently killing enemies, finishing them off on the ground, or simply using it usually, will slowly start to destroy it, and you can only repair it at the merchant. The ability to parry goes hand in hand with this as well. You can block axe throws from enemies or melee attacks with your knife. Since they are more aggressive and at least in feel, this is an ability I recommend you get as soon as possible. It will save your progress in the game from the last typewriter. But it is something you have to be able to use with the right timing and paying attention to what your opponents are doing. Which, of course can be challenging. So, even in combination with this novelty, the knife works more like a resource that you can waste in a certain way. Therefore, you have to use it with care and discretion, just like in the original, because here, too, every attack and every weapon has its specific use. Combining them and using them correctly in the game still allows a specific form of slow and tactical play to be maintained. This is despite the generally faster and more aggressive gameplay. It’s a fascinating combination that is hard to describe but works.

Minor Additions, Major Impact: Requests, Cases, and Pendants

There are more novelties, but mostly, it’s more of the minor things you’ll come across on your own over time. Whether we’re talking about requests, which are little “side quests” for the merchant, different types of cases and pendants that aren’t just cosmetic as they may seem at first glance.

Room for Improvement: Companion AI, Evasion, and Stealth 

The remake of Resident Evil 4 does an excellent job of being fearless to take away where it doesn’t matter and add where it adds more depth and context. Both in terms of story and gameplay. Still, of course, there are a few things I’d still like to see done a little better. Ashley may be a bit more sensible, but accompanying her in dangerous parts still causes pain at times because she can’t defend herself. Thankfully, you don’t have to address her health directly anymore. The lack of a better evasive maneuver can be frustrating at times when enemies pile up on you from all sides. And the stealth, while it works, could have been more interesting after all, especially when you never know if the enemy can see you or not. Sometimes, he looks at you and pretends nothing; other times, someone starts shouting at you from afar, and most of the time, you don’t even know why. Similarly, the developers could have done with aggressive and nonsensical scripting, where you clear a location, pick up a story item, and suddenly the area is a whole of enemies again. Or someone runs at you from a building you’ve entirely cleared before. 

Audiovisual Overhaul: Reimagining Iconic Designs

Also, of course, the most significant change was the audiovisual aspect of the game. From the original release, the developers tried to leave mainly the design of characters, enemies, and some key and iconic locations or places. The rest, however, has undergone a more or less complete change. You’ll know which way you’re walking most of the time if you’re a player of the original, but at the same time, you will need more time to take the blueprint completely and point to the exact same places. But everything is more settled, more realistic. Combined with the lifelike graphics and another shift in the RE Engine, this creates a unique atmosphere. The excellent presentation is also complemented by great dubbing. Compared to the original, the overall quality and direction are good. Perhaps the only thing that bothered it was Ashley gasping for breath. I don’t know if it was some fault, but the fact that she was constantly huffing behind my neck and acting like she had asthma even when we were standing still was sometimes quite a sacrifice.

Otherwise, the sounds also work great, especially in the larger locations where you can distinguish beautifully where someone is coming from and the music, which is more in the background and only plays at appropriate times. Admittedly, this means that the game lacks any outright soundtrack that will remain in your memory after you’ve finished playing.

The Final Act: An Over-the-Top Spectacle

The biggest issue with Remake Four is the final section. It feels like the developers went overboard with the action, resulting in excessive violence and chaos. At times, it reminded me of the over-the-top nature of Resident Evil 6. You’ll understand what I mean when you experience it for yourself.

Last Rites: A Respectable Homage to a Legendary Game

Capcom has taken their legendary game, removed the flaws where they were, and given the game the gorgeous audiovisual treatment that such a game properly deserves. The gameplay has remained the same at the core but has been reskinned and enhanced with several minor elements, making this game a slightly different but somewhat more fresh experience. The music may not be prominent, but it plays when it really needs to. What, however, was the most damaging aspect of the remake compared to the prequel, which I only mentioned in passing and saved more for the very end, is the sometimes absurd and unnecessary slide into a very action-packed concept, especially in the final third of the game, which was often overdone even by the standards of the third remake. By the end, while I was excited about the story’s climax, I was not so enthusiastic about the gameplay. Still, this is an overall respectable work that pays homage to its predecessor. For fans of the series and the previous remakes, it’s a must-play!

..And VR lovers as well as CAPCOM prepared this extenstion for PSVR2 free for owners and is terrific as we hear , but we did not yet try ourselves.

Purchase Resident Evil 4 Remake is available on multiple platforms:

Resident Evil 3 Remake: Intense But Short Recreation

By
Petko
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Resident Evil 3 Remake- Beautiful Jill Photo
Resident Evil 3 Remake- Beautiful Jill

Title: Resident Evil 3 Remake
Developer: Capcom, M-Two
Publisher: Capcom
Released: April 3, 2020
Platforms: PC Game, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Article Reading Time: 10 minutes

Another Great Remake of Racoon City Evil

At the beginning of 2019, Capcom brought a remake of Resident Evil 2, a game they’ve been working on for years and have been incredibly passionate about. It showed that it was a great action survival adventure game that kept the spirit of the original, but at the same time, we got some excellent visuals and modified modern gameplay. It’s no wonder that Capcom took home several awards for the game and often got maximum marks in reviews. Resident Evil 2 was a straight-up remake that made the dream of many fans of the series come true, and they couldn’t be happier. They subsequently began calling for a remake of the third installment as well. However, it was clear that Capcom was already working on it, and its announcement was only a matter of time.

Capcom had already counted on a remake of the third Resident Evil installment during the development of the remake of the second installment and entrusted its development to a new studio, M-Two, led by former Platinum Games studio head Tatsuya Minami. It’s no wonder, as both games take place virtually simultaneously, each giving a slightly different perspective on events and complementing each other perfectly. Moreover, both are about a pandemic sweeping the world far faster than any other disease in modern history. Those are the first words of the play, which, given the current situation, certainly doesn’t give one much reason to be happy. However, it’s great that the remake of Resident Evil 3 has been given as much care as the second installment. The developers didn’t just want to remake the original game in a new visual coat; they decided to keep the characters, iconic locations, story skeleton, and foremost enemy and make a modern version. 

The Nightmare Begins

Resident Evil 3 mainly follows the story of a S.T.A.R.S. unit member, Jill Valentine, who survived an incident at the Arklay mansion in the original Resident Evil, located in the Arklay Mountains above Racoon City. She is now trying to escape Raccoon City at any cost, where zombies are swarming, and the apocalypse is imminent… It’s a challenging task, as she and the members of her unit are being hunted by a giant monster called Nemesis, which I’ll get to later in my review. While it may not seem like it from the previous text, Resident Evil 3 has an exciting and well-written story (one that no film adaptation would be ashamed of) that has been adapted in many parts. This makes the game a new and fresh experience, plus the developers have not forgiven themselves for a few surprises for fans of the original. But the biggest boast is the main character, Jill Valentine, who is well-written and has many intense moments, which can also be said about her colleague Carlos or other characters you meet while playing. All the characters are completely redesigned and have a new design (Jill is now portrayed by Russian model Sasha Zotova). This helps make them more believable and makes it possible to relate to them. 

I mentioned that Resident Evil 3 takes place simultaneously with Resident Evil 2 and gives a different perspective on the events. That’s true, but the gameplay is different for both games. While Leon and Claire’s adventure was the true survival horror adventure where you had to count every bullet, Jill Valentine’s journey is much more straightforward and action-packed. And the way the game wants to scare players has changed, too. Whereas in Resident Evil 2, the fear was built on not knowing what would jump out at you, whereas in Resident Evil 3, you fear a clearly defined and, again, as is usually the case, almost immortal arch-enemy that is constantly after you. 

Escaping Raccoon City

I don’t think the more action-packed poisoning is a bad thing; in fact, it’s a change I quite welcomed, although I’m also aware that if you haven’t played the original and are expecting the same experience as the remake of Resident Evil 2, you might be a little surprised and disappointed. I, however, am happy with the remake of Resident Evil 3, as I got exactly what Capcom promised before release… A more significant, more action-packed expansion for the second installment. That may be why I enjoyed that return to Raccoon City from the first minute to the last, thanks to perfect modern gameplay that stands up to many contemporary titles. Resident Evil 3 is one big linear action game that will lock you in your chair after just a few seconds and won’t let up until the end. Few games can do this these days, and Resident Evil 3 is one of them. 

When you accept that you’re looking at a much more linear and action-packed Resident Evil, with no room for tricky puzzles, decision-making like the original, or vital survival elements, you’ll have no problem with it. The game has very well-written characters, dialogue, and action, during which Jill Valentine and her colleague Carlos, who were given much more space in the remake, dispatch dozens of zombies and other mutated monsters whose design is terrifying.

Despite the absence of several enemy types, there are plenty of adversaries to go around, and you’ll be able to use various weapons against them, be it a pistol, submachine gun, shotgun, or grenade launcher. There’s no shortage of grenades, either. There are more bullets compared to the second installment, and you don’t have to think as much about each shot, but you still have to save on medium difficulty and you can’t mindlessly shoot every zombie with hundreds of bullets.

DOOM has yet to become Resident Evil 3, although it’s not as strict on bullet economy, first aid kits, etc. The action system has mostly stayed the same from the second installment, with the only significant new feature being the ability to dodge zombie and boss attacks, which brings a nice boost that you get used to right away.

Mr. X: The Relentless Pursuer

While in the second part you were chased by Mr. X, in Resident Evil 3 you’ll be taken care of by an even worse monster, which even today gives many fans the creeps and makes them scream STTTTAAAAARRRRRSSSS all the time. That monster is, of course, Nemesis, which is why many fans even wanted a remake of the third installment. Even considering my conversations with the developers, I hoped that Nemesis would be a standalone unit that would hunt down Raccoon City and show up when I wasn’t expecting it. But since Resident Evil 3 is linear and practically constantly drives you down one ready-made path, having Nemesis move freely wouldn’t make sense. His sequences are so scripted, which didn’t matter the first time I played it because every time he appeared a little unexpectedly, I got adequately freaked out and went on the run. The scenes with him are great, I had a lot of respect for Nemesis every time because I knew I was facing a huge colossus that had the upper hand, and if I made a mistake, a loading screen would follow. With Nemesis, you can have some great fights while playing, which is alright. They don’t offend, but on the other hand, I imagine them being even better. 

The game takes place in Raccoon City, taking you to several diverse locations, including streets, various shops, hospitals, or labs with more than one secret. Fans of the original will marvel at how familiar locations have come to life in the new visual representation or what changes have been made. Some have been heavily reworked and made smaller to make the action go faster so you don’t wander too much. However, you might be disappointed about the ancestry of several locations from the original, some of which should have been included in the remake. Again, this brings me to the fact that the new Resident Evil 3 is more of a modern take on the old work rather than a 1:1 and should be approached accordingly.

Anyway, it’s still possible to search for hidden rooms and other bonuses, but you no longer find yourself in a massive maze with many locked doors and various branching and secret passages to get lost in. What’s left are unique safe rooms to save your game at your typewriter or toss items from your inventory into a crate. You can gradually increase your inventory, but it’s nice to put found items away somewhere so you don’t lose them. I would only criticize you for not combining items in the crate. They must always be in the inventory to be combined. This makes handling them harder with a smaller inventory capacity.

Intense but Short

Resident Evil 3 is a relatively short game. If, like me, you play on medium difficulty for the first time, you’ll finish the story campaign in something like six or seven hours, and more experienced players can do it even faster. And it’s also because the difficulty could be higher on medium difficulty. In fact, I even had trouble dying unless you count the opponents who can take Jill down for a blow. But I wasn’t. Who knows how enthusiastic about this attempt by the developers to increase the difficulty at any cost, and it’s not the right solution. After finishing, you can replay everything with greater difficulty or try to collect everything but don’t expect a second campaign with a different character than the one you did in Resident Evil 2. Also missing is the decision-making from the original, which could have easily influenced the ending. This, in turn, contributes to the game’s lack of replayability, as it fails to surprise on the second playthrough, which Capcom probably counted on a bit, so they added a multiplayer game, Resident Evil: Resistance, to the game, which, while not offensive at all, was not enough as total compensation. 

For the remake of Resident Evil 3, Capcom reused its modern RE Engine, which was used not only in the remake of Resident Evil 2 but also in Resident Evil 7 and Devil May Cry 5. It does a fantastic job here as well. Especially regarding character and enemy models, they are incredibly detailed with awesome animations. Apart from the characters, the environments are also thorough, and the effects are also significant, so when it comes to the visual aspect, your eyes are in for a real treat, and you won’t be disappointed. Especially since the game is well-optimized and even runs at 60 fps on PlayStation 4 and PS5 as part of an update that came later. The soundtrack is also fantastic in Resident Evil 3. The dubbing is also worthy of praise, which only emphasizes the high production values of this remake. Capcom left nothing to chance. 

Resident Conlusion

Resident Evil 3 is a superb remake of a beloved classic video game that effectively holds your attention from start to finish. The game prioritizes high-quality action, which complements Jill Valentine’s adventure and the more cinematic approach. Additionally, it features impressive design, well-developed characters, and exceptional audiovisual presentation. However, some players might find the shorter duration to be a downside.

Purchase Resident Evil 3 Remake

Resident Evil 3 Remake on Steam – Face the horror of Raccoon City with stunning visuals and intense action.
Buy Resident Evil 3 Remake for PS4 on PlayStation Store – Survive the nightmare as Jill Valentine in this thrilling remake.
Get Resident Evil 3 Remake for Xbox X/S and Xbox One on Microsoft Store – Escape the city, evade Nemesis, and uncover the truth behind the outbreak.
Play Resident Evil 3 Remake on you Nintendo. Buy at Nintendo Switch Store the cloud version of the game

Resident Evil 2 Remake Is Masterclass of its Own

Resident Evil
By
Petko
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Resident Evil 2 Remake Cute Zombie Selfie!
Resident Evil 2 Remake Cute Zombie Selfie

Title: Resident Evil 2
Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom
Released: January 25, 2019
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4
Platforms Available: PC, PlayStation 4 Playstation 5, Xbox X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch (Cloud)
Article Reading Time: 12 minutes

Introduction

As we know, remakes of older titles are mainly for players who didn’t have the pleasure of playing them in the years of their release, but in many cases, they also please those who played them in their original form. Remakes are a considerable risk if they are not approached with enough sensitivity to the original. It can quickly happen that a game adapted for the latest generation is entirely different from its years-old predecessor. It plays differently. It looks different. In short, some remakes are so advanced that they can take away what is essential to the game, albeit unintentionally.

Have you ever encountered remakes of old video games that give them a new look and add a few extra innovations without losing the original atmosphere? Such remakes are a rare gem in the gaming industry. They bring back the nostalgia of the original and introduce the game to a new generation. One such example is the Shadow of the Colossus remake, a true masterpiece in every sense. The game’s developers have taken great care to retain the original game’s essence while incorporating some new features that enhance the overall gaming experience.

Similarly, Resident Evil 2 is another honest piece of work that has been given a lot of care and attention. The game has been remade with utmost respect for the original, and every detail has been meticulously crafted to perfection. The result is a game that pays homage to the original and stands on its own as a great game in its own right.

Leon and Claire’s Nightmare Begins

The story takes place in Racoon City, where you start your journey at a gas station. There, you meet Leon S. Kennedy, a new member of the Racoon City Police Department, and Claire Redfield, who is searching for her brother Chris, a member of the S.T.A.R.S. Special Forces. However, things could be better in the city. Infected people roam the streets, and danger lurks around every corner. The Umbrella Corporation, a shadowy organization, is behind all of it, and the sinister question mark that hangs over everything is unsettling.

As you progress through the game, you can play either Leon or Claire, and I highly recommend playing both. While the storylines may seem similar, they diverge and intersect at various points. Each character meets different people, explores different areas, and acquires unique items, providing a fresh perspective on the story.

Playing as Leon and Claire allows players to experience the game from two angles and adds depth to the narrative. The paths of both characters intertwine in unexpected ways, and their individual experiences reveal more about the world of Racoon City and the nefarious Umbrella Corporation.

The story is captivating, with an excellent narrative that centers on well-written dialogue and a small cast of characters with solid characterization. This leads to several well-timed narrative twists, which, unlike most games with similar themes, feel unrestrained and surpass the norm.

Inventory Management Survival

Managing your allotted small inventory is one of the initial challenges you will face as you start playing Resident Evil 2. This inventory space will stay the same throughout the game unless you find bags hidden in safes and locked cabinets that can expand your inventory size. However, even with the expanded inventory, you should still expect a smaller inventory than you may have experienced in open-world RPG titles.

The game puts you in a scenario where you must make careful decisions about what items to keep and what to leave behind. You may want to prioritize healing items and ammo, but if you come across a crucial item you need to progress in the game, you may have to put away some of your precious healing items.

Thankfully, the game offers the option to store unneeded items in a chest. However, few chests are available and shared, like in Episode 7. Therefore, it is vital to be strategic in what you store and what you carry with you. You should keep items you will need later in the game in the chest.

In summary, managing your inventory is a crucial part of Resident Evil 2, which you must deal with from the beginning to the end of the game. Be prepared to make tough choices, but with careful planning, you can successfully complete the game.

At the beginning of the game, the player’s arsenal is limited to a single pistol. This forces the player to be accurate with each shot since every bullet is precious. However, as you progress throughout the game, you will acquire new weapons, such as the mighty shotgun and flamethrower, which offer a more comprehensive range of combat options. Despite the expanded arsenal, the player is not invulnerable, and ammunition remains scarce. This means that the player must consider whether it is worth engaging in combat or conserving resources for later. The need to survive adds extra stress to the gameplay, particularly when the player decides to avoid fighting and instead runs through a location. Even when the player chooses to flee, enemies relentlessly pursue them, making each game moment tense and action-packed.

Solving Puzzles Amidst the Chaos

This is further enhanced by puzzles and riddles scattered throughout the game’s story. These are some of the main things that remind you that you’re playing an old classic. You have to find a key to get into a room with an object to open a door, where there’s another object to open another door, and so on. To get through the game this way, you’ll have to think about where you’ve been and what you’ve found there. This approach may not suit some, but the need to consider and execute an idea when the game won’t give you a moment’s rest can kick you into gear like no other contemporary title. You’ll also still search for maps, notes, and records, mixing gunpowder of varying quality and multicolored flowers. In short, mechanics-wise, everything works perfectly, and the remake retains the core of the old original in this regard.

Capcom’s latest changes to the Resident Evil 2 remake have been met with excitement and anticipation from fans of the classic survival horror game. The developers have made one of the most significant modifications to the game’s camera perspective. In the original version, the camera remained static throughout the game. However, the camera is moved behind the protagonist’s right shoulder in the new game. This perspective makes all the action on the screen more evident, allowing you to see everything and decide where to go next.

Familiar Threats and New Horrors

You’ll encounter numerous dangers as you explore the game’s various locations. The undead zombies from the original game and other familiar monsters such as lickers, infected dogs, and much more are back. But the most significant threat you’ll face is Mr. X, the Tyrant. He’ll be chasing you relentlessly throughout the game, trying to slow your progress and make you his next victim.

All these dangers make Resident Evil 2 a thrilling and challenging experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat for hours. Are you ready to face your fears and fight for survival?

Older memories will notice that there are few changes. Not all were given space in the remake, but that is not necessarily a reason to condemn it immediately. The developers have really worked hard with the enemies, and if you take a moment to observe them, you’ll find that they behave very unpredictably. For example, the undead look lazy, shuffle along corridors, or crawl through windows (which are ideal for boarding up if you have the wooden planks to do so), and you may think that killing them will be easy, but the opposite is true. Clumsy sloths can turn into fast killers in a second, capable of surprising you by charging at you from behind. And we’re only talking about the most ordinary ones in the game.

Tyrant: An Unstoppable Force

I had the biggest problem with the lickers. They can hear almost every step you take, so you must move as quietly as possible and pray they don’t walk past you or jump off the ceiling onto your back. Then your only salvation is either a knife that you can stick in the neck of the lickers and undead or a grenade in your inventory. As for Tyrant himself, he can only be incapacitated for so long by headshots, as he’s almost invulnerable and can walk through anything in his path, whether it’s a simple wooden door or a hard wall. If he catches you and believes that he will, then prepare yourself as hard hits and chokes from the stereo will be hard to come by.

I played the game on a Playstation 4 without the slightest technical difficulties. The second game uses the engine from the seventh installment and looks beautiful. Cutscenes and animations are on a solid level, and the textures and all objects are well modeled. Even the smaller ones like keys, medallions, and herbs have been given sufficient care and don’t give a cheap impression of a rushed job.

However, the biggest weapon of the graphics of the second game doesn’t lie in the quality of the effects, of which you’ll see several. If you strip away the smoke, fire, and water, the detailed faces with realistic facial expressions, and the elaborate weapons, you’re left with one of the best damage models I’ve seen in years. Every wound you or your enemy takes is visible, and you can, for example, simply blow off an opponent’s leg, arm, or both and watch them try to crawl or crawl toward you. Other animations are similarly unique. For example, the authors remembered Leon and Claire holding their hips and slowing down when injured. Sound-wise, Resident Evil 2 also retains a certain uniqueness. I’ve never heard a more terrifying zombie roar and licker shuffle that managed to properly freak me out. However, what the developers have played with the most is Tyrant’s stomping, echoing throughout the rooms, confusing my hearing and senses. This is an essential part of the atmosphere, along with all sorts of sounds you’ll hear, be it falling furniture, windows breaking, raindrops ringing against metal gutters. The game is greatly helped by the soundtrack, which, in the more action-packed moments, conveys the tension of the whole situation or, on the contrary, its desperation.

Remaking a Classic the Right Way

As we approach the end of this review, it’s clear that the Resident Evil 2 remake is near-perfect, but not quite. The only downside is that the game allows you to lower your difficulty when you die repeatedly, which is fine after the first time. However, if you keep dying, the game will continue to reduce the difficulty, and you could accidentally choose a lower difficulty that ruins the entire experience.

The Importance of Difficulty

Once you complete the game, it will tell you your final game time and the difficulty you chose, determining your overall grade. Aiming for a high grade is essential because it unlocks the true endgame and other bonus difficulties that offer more challenging puzzles and formidable enemies. This adds tremendous replayability to the game, and you can chase after many bonuses, trophies, or achievements, turning a shorter game into an affair that takes up dozens of hours.

For new players, the game will take around 10 hours to complete on their first playthrough, while veterans who remember the original can finish it in 7 or 6 hours.

Unlocking the True Ending

When I started playing Resident Evil 2, I thought the remake of a twenty-year-old game would be a minor departure from the original. I assumed it wouldn’t surprise me, even if I had never played it before, only watched it. But I couldn’t have been more wrong. The game is a masterclass in creating a proper remake that stays true to its roots while adding new elements that enhance the experience.

A Remake That Surpasses the Original

The game’s sound design is exceptional, and I was on edge when I started playing. The sound effects are designed to keep you on your toes, and the ambient noises are creepy enough to make the hair on the back of your neck stand up. The graphics are stunning, and the level of detail in the game world is breathtaking. The lighting is perfect, and the use of shadows creates an eerie atmosphere that is hard to shake.

The gameplay mechanics have been reworked to bring the game up to modern standards, but they still feel familiar to fans of the original. The game’s pacing is excellent, with moments of calm and intense action that keep you engaged. The puzzles are challenging but not frustrating, and the boss battles are epic and satisfying.

The game’s horror elements are what truly set it apart. The remake is faithful to the original but takes the terror to a new level. The game will scare you with unprecedented cruelty, making you jump out of your chair more than once. The zombies are terrifying, and the way they move and sound is genuinely unnerving. The game’s jump scares are expertly crafted, and the tension builds to a crescendo that will leave you breathless.

Conclusion: A Must-Play Horror Masterpiece

In summary, Resident Evil 2 is an exceptional remake that surpasses the original in every way. It’s a faithful tribute to the original, adding new elements that enhance the experience. The game’s sound design, graphics, gameplay mechanics, and horror elements are top-notch. If you’re a fan of horror games, this is a must-play.

Where to Purchase Resident Evil 2 Remake:

Resident Evil 2 on Steam – Experience survival horror at its finest on PC
Resident Evil 2 for PS4 and PS5 on PlayStation Store – Brave the horrors of Racoon City on your PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5
Resident Evil 2 for Xbox One on Microsoft Store – Uncover the truth behind the zombie outbreak on Xbox One
Resident Evil 2 for Nintendo Switch (Cloud Only) – Get shaken with your Nintendo Handheld playing Resident Evil 2

Wreckfest: Flatting Out the Best of Destruction Racing

By
Petko
-
Wreckfest The Beauty of the Race with Friends and Foes
Wreckfest The Beauty of the Race with Friends and Foes

Title: Wreckfest
Developer: Bugbear Entertainment
Publisher: THQ Nordic
Released: June 14, 2018 (PC), August 27, 2019 (PS4, Xbox One), June 1, 2021 (PS5, Xbox Series X/S)
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5
Platforms Available: PC Game, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Google Stadia, Nintendo Switch
Article Reading Time: 11 minutes

Wrecfest Drive Hard Die Last
Wreckfest: Drive Hard. Die Last.

Wreckfest: Bugbear’s FlatOut Resemblance

Ever since I was a kid, I adored the good old legendary FlatOut from Finnish studio Bugbear Entertainment, which in 2004 introduced its first game with a truly detailed and, dare I say, revolutionary racing car demolition model. It was simply something that, for example, Need for Speed couldn’t offer because of licensed cars, namely smashing your opponent’s car until it’s a piece of crumpled scrap and its driver flies through the windshield like a rag doll after crashing into a tree that you kind of helped him into. (This is my inner child self simply loved – no, don’t worry, I didn’t become a psychopath in adulthood) 

Wreckfest Flatting Out the Speed Curve and Racing
Wreckfest Flatting Out the Speed Curve

Following Titles in the Family 

The first FlatOut was followed by an even better second installment, perhaps the most revered by its community, and a few years after, another installment, which was defacto a double feature on “steroids” titled Ultimate Carnage. Later on, however, the brand was taken over by another studio that could have taken to it better, and over the next decade, two more not-very-good games were made that sealed the fate of this initially beloved franchise. Bugbear Entertainment, however, in 2017, once again made it known that they haven’t jumped with this type of racing game yet and served as a “spiritual successor” to their once legendary series, albeit with a completely independent game from the original and a different name – Wreckfest.

When the game was announced and later released, my FlatOut gamer heart raced with joy, and I had to buy it immediately. After just a few hours, I found out that this was the return of the king of demolition racing games.

Demolition – the Soul of the Game

As an avid player of the first FlatOuts, the most critical aspect of the game I was curious about was the demolition model… Here, right after the first collisions with opponents, it was absolutely clear – ONE OF THE BEST CAR DEMOLES IN GAMES!!!

Everyone at once signs off on the poor guy who takes it from you in precise detail; cars are shaped to the craziest shapes and sizes. There’s no more satisfying feeling than slamming into someone from behind, sending their car into the eternal hunting grounds, and watching their poor little vehicle fly several meters through the air over the barriers and flip onto the roof… It’s called the perfect disposal, and I felt like I was in seventh heaven during these moments.

Wreckfest Collision Damage Happened
Wreckfest Collision Damage Happened

Deepening the Gameplay over its Predecessors

However, the thing that elevated the experience towards FlatOut is also the independently destructible parts of the car, such as the front, rear, or side body parts, which are shown by a small diagram at the bottom corner of the screen, also included here, following the example of simulation games, is that the car is also divided into engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension. Of course, each part affects the car in a different way when they are damaged. A damaged engine has less power, a broken gearbox has longer delays when changing gears, the brakes do not brake your car evenly but drift sideways, and finally, the suspension which, when not in perfect condition, absorbs shocks worse on rough and uneven terrain which can also slow your car down or make it harder to control… Of course, this will not make your vehicle an unusable wreck. Still, it forces the player to try harder to give as good results as his undamaged pet at the beginning of the race. Therefore, these elements have their weight in the gameplay just right, but at the same time, it is still at the core of a rather arcade affair, which is spiced with many elements of games from the world of simulators.

Symphony of Destruction – Who knows…Knows

Speaking of independent body parts, another way in which Wreckfest differs from its 2004 and 2006 “grandfathers” is the additional armor. This didn’t exist in FlatOuts, and the cars were driven “light,” whereas Wreckfest is more inspired by real demolition derbies that are popular in America. It is possible to independently add both frontal and rear or side armor to the cars, which consists of various welded pipes, tees, metal mesh, and so on and so forth… From your pet, you can make a “mobile tank” which will not be hit by anyone on the road… However, it also has its price, and that is the weight of the car, which in Wreckfest plays a significant role, both if you crash with a heavier car into a lighter so this poor guy will fly like paper away and vice versa when hitting a heavier opponent we will experience the feeling that you hit a brick wall, The higher weight also affects handling, cornering and acceleration, the last possibility can be compensated by a more robust engine but the other two factors must be taken into account. 

Tactics is a Paradigm Before each Race

Therefore, before each race, it is necessary to consider what setup is ideal for a given type of event. For a demolition derby, you naturally want the heaviest armor possible. Speed is not so important, whereas speed and acceleration are crucial for a classic race, but even for such a race, it can’t hurt to at least protect your rear end against your rivals or your front end if you miss a corner and crash… The choice is always entirely up to you, and for each event, you simply make your own custom beast. To make things worse, in addition to the classic engine upgrades and armor modification, there is also the so-called “tuning,” where you can adjust the hardness of the tires that affect the behavior on different types of surfaces from asphalt to sand to gravel, the length of the gears which affect acceleration at the expense of top speed and vice versa, the brake engagement whether more front or rear and so on and so forth.

So the result is that you can adjust your car overall in terms of performance, acceleration, handling, drivability, durability, and weight depending on the type of race or demolition derby and, in the case of a race, also depending on the structure of the track depending on whether it is more of a speed circuit or a more technical circuit with more corners and all of this in addition to the surface you drive on which, by the way, is also shown for each circuit how much percentage and what ratio of, for example, asphalt or gravel and sand it contains and this will give the player a chance to prepare as best as possible for the most efficient driving. Again, however, as with the parts mentioned above of the car, such as the engine, gearbox, suspension, and so on, this doesn’t, of course, carry the massive weight of authentic and unadulterated titles from the world of simulators, but these elements are certainly felt and given some weight in the gameplay. 

Circuits and Artificial Intelligence

Now I can follow up on the circuits mentioned earlier, which are plentiful in Wreckfest, which also feel inspired primarily by the first FlatOut and often have several variations that you’ll be racing around, whether with friends, random players, or computer-controlled opponents. I’d first talk about the computer-controlled opponents, which only a few games have, and that is, like humans, the ability to learn… It’s natural that the first time you drive a circuit, it’s not a very clean ride and can be more like driving someone under the influence of alcohol. But of course, this changes with each lap, as you go around, you remember the circuit passages better, and you drive more and more cleanly, which is also true for your computer opponents who learn the track with you and while at the beginning they tend to crash and take corners wider and sometimes even go off the track, after a few laps their driving is more consistent and cleaner.

Awesome Multiplayer: Friends and Foes

Another crucial part of the game, as I’ve already bitten off, is playing with friends and random players… The game includes multiplayer and options for official public servers, public player-created servers, and private play where you can set the type of event, allowed cars, number of players, and other things that would enable you to have fun together with your friends and computer players that can be added to the number if you don’t want too empty lobbies or if you’re not going to have a one-on-one match with a friend, either during a race or a demolition derby. Career races and public multiplayer servers are up to twenty-four riders in size. Private up to a maximum of eight.

Careers, Cars, and Specials 

I’ve just mentioned the career mode, to which there’s certainly something to be said as well… Career consists of 5 main championships in which there is a wide variety of events from classic races to demolition derbies to special challenges with an assigned car, these challenges are for example races or derbies with a combine harvester, a school bus or a couch on wheels… Yes, it’s not a joke! Considering the often grotesque course of these races, we could actually talk about the best joke and the funniest part of the game when I cried with laughter more than once, especially with my friends when we took these cars to our private game… But you just have to experience this for yourself; at first glance, it sounds silly, but it really is… 

Demolitionisation is Cool

There is something unmistakable about a demolition derby or a race with an armored garden tractor or a couch on wheels. In the game, as mentioned earlier, there are a large number of cars which, on top of everything else, vary according to wheel drive, whether front, rear, or all four, body type from compact to mid-size to full-size or a special class which includes the combines above, buses, couches and so on… This is also often present in the various career events when these diverse criteria are present, and the game frequently exudes driving with different types of cars.

Brutality of the Audio

It’s worth mentioning the way audio and visuals are presented in the game. Music played an important role in the old FlatOut game, particularly in the latter. Though, the new game doesn’t have the same emphasis on music, the predominantly metal soundtrack is still excellent and adds a sense of brutality to the demolition. The main issue is that there are only around twenty tracks available, which is relatively few, and the music can become repetitive even though it’s still good.

Solid Visuals are a Must

When it comes to the visuals of the game, there’s hardly anything to complain about. Considering the game’s release date, it looks quite solid, and if you’re playing it on a PS5 at 60fps, it is an absolute treat for the eyes. The sunset in the game is particularly stunning, with the sun’s rays adding a touch of realism to the scene. Overall, the game appears to be free of any major bugs or glitches. Although there are a few minor exceptions that are barely noticeable, it’s essential to appreciate the fact that this game originated from indie developers. It’s impressive how much effort they have put in to ensure that the game runs smoothly and looks beautiful.

Breaking into the Last Curve

I’ve now covered everything essential that a lover of old FlatOut needs to know… In short, it is a racing game with a divine demolition, driving, and collision model, a large number of cars and tracks, detailed configuration of most of the available vehicles, good AI with the ability to learn, and a great multiplayer game whose fun is mainly greatly supported by many funny cars with an excellent technical condition, visuals and soundtrack which, however, lacks a more significant variation of songs which can be considered as the only flaw in the beauty of this game. 

This game pays tribute to the legendary FlatOut series, which was at the top of this subgenre. I have no choice but to say that this is a MUST-PLAY for demolition racing game lovers, and I hope that we will see a second installment of Wreckfest someday.

Wreckfest Purchase

Wreckfest on Steam – Demolition derby racing mayhem. Smash and crash your way to victory.
Wreckfest for PS4/PS5 on PlayStation Store – Buckle up for intense, physics-based, soft-body damage racing.
Wreckfest for Xbox on Microsoft Store – Drive hard. Die last. Realistic damage in this ultimate racing banger.
DRM Free Wreckfest for PC on GOG – Drive with Friends, drive with Foes
Collide Epically buying Wreckfest on Epic Store

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