Resident Evil: Requiem manages to evoke a complex mix of nostalgia and trepidation, intertwining the haunting unease of its predecessors with heightened action sequences that reflect the series’ evolution. While exploring this new installment, I unexpectedly found myself drawing comparisons to Resident Evil 6, a title Capcom might prefer we all forget. Like a twisted experiment gone awry, Resident Evil 6 sought to combine the many guises of the franchise into a fevered mashup that ultimately missed the mark, creating a product that felt more style than substance.
In contrast, Requiem emerges as a more refined creature, taking inspiration from the nerve-wracking atmosphere of Resident Evil 7 while marrying it to the more cinematic action flair of Resident Evil 4 Remake. The opening hours grip you with pure horror, immersing you in an oppressive world filled with dread and tension. You’ll find yourself navigating dark, foreboding spaces where every creak and shadow feels like a harbinger of doom. It is this sense of unease that lingers in the back of your mind, effectively setting the stage for what feels like a cathartic release when the gameplay shifts toward frenetic violence.
Once the initial dread gives way to a bloody liberation, players are treated to swift, visceral battles that let you exact sweet revenge on your grotesque foes. For about six hours, Requiem strikes a brilliant balance between horror and intensity, crafting a hybrid that feels alive and engaging. Unfortunately, as the game progresses, it begins to slip into disarray, losing the tautness that defines its early moments. Still, those first few hours are a powerful testament to Capcom’s ability to hone its craft, ultimately making the journey worthwhile.
While Requiem may suffer some inconsistencies, it triumphantly embodies everything that makes this franchise so captivating. The blend of creeping fear and explosive action, along with clever nods to its storied past, establishes it as an essential entry for both newcomers and long-time fans. It feels like Capcom is not just revisiting old haunts but striving to build something new—a prospect that leaves both excitement and a touch of hope in its wake.
Source: rockpapershotgun.com
