Resident Evil 4 (2023) Hands-On Impressions

I recently spent 17 hours with the upcoming remake of 2005’s Resident Evil 4, and as a long time fan of the original, I went into this experience with high expectations. Fortunately, I was not disappointed! Publisher and developer Capcom, has put a great deal of care into making sure that the Resident Evil 4 remake is worthy of what many Resident Evil fans refer to as the best game in the series. 

Though I am unable to detail specific changes, the story of the remake remains true to the 2005 version at its core. Leon S. Kennedy (now an agent working for the U.S. President) is tasked with locating and rescuing the president's daughter, Ashley Graham. This task takes Leon to a remote area of Spain, upon arriving however, things quickly get out of hand and a fight to save Ashley and escape the nightmare being unleashed sends players on their perilous journey. 

Several new features change up the gameplay from its original counterpart. Most notably, Leon can now engage in stealth tactics, crouching and sneaking up on enemies for an instant kill with his combat knife. Unlike in the 2005 version however, Leon’s knife is not to be neglected; in most cases using it will decrease its durability, eventually causing it to break. Fortunately, it can be repaired, and the durability can even be upgraded so it lasts longer. Yes, the famous merchant from the original returns to offer Leon access to upgrades and other goodies — and this time he is unkillable, thank goodness. 

Changes have also been made to Ashley’s character. Being voiced by Nicole Tompkins, this time around Ashley is portrayed in a more mature way. Gone is the inappropriate humour, and sexualisation of the character, to be replaced with the image of someone more modern. I can say Ashley is a delight to have running around with you in this rendition, often trying to lighten the mood with an awkward comment, or helping navigate obstacles in your way. Players are also given a method of controlling Ashley’s distance from them, allowing you to tell her to stick close or give you some space during combat. 

Using the RE Engine, Resident Evil 4 (2023) looks amazing, every little detail seems perfectly captured. I am also happy to say that the remake ran beautifully, I never dropped below 60 frames-per-second throughout my entire playthrough. This is not a game to pass up on regardless of if you are already familiar with the story. Fans of the original will love what Capcom has done with their beloved masterpiece, and new players will experience the reason Resident Evil 4 is considered the best in the franchise.