Resident Evil 4 Remake is among this year's most highly-anticipated titles. Many fans consider Resident Evil 4 to be the best original entry in the series, as it introduced thrilling action sequences to the classic survival-horror formula. However, sequels to the title featured an over-emphasis on the action, leading to a dark period in the series' history. Because of this, players have wondered whether Resident Evil 4 Remake would emulate the original's tone and inject action sequences into the Resident Evil Remake series. Fans now have their answer, as a new trailer for Resident Evil 4 Remake shown during this week's PlayStation State of Play confirms that action is still a big focus in the title.
Resident Evil 4 Remake tells the story of Leon S. Kennedy, who travels to a mountainous region of Spain named Valdelobos to rescue the President's daughter, Ashley, from a cult. Prior trailers and gameplay footage of the remake left fans with questions as to the changes that would arrive this time around. The overall tone appeared much darker than its predecessor, leading some players to speculate that the original's action sequences and physical takedowns may be absent in Resident Evil 4 Remake. Following this week's trailer, which focused almost exclusively on action sequences, fans of the original can breathe a sigh of relief.
Resident Evil 4 Remake Seeks to Modernize The Original's Action Sequences
This week's trailer for Resident Evil 4 Remake was chock-full of action. However, the tone was different from what players may remember, much like previously shared footage of Resident Evil 4 Remake's fifth chapter. Big action set pieces, such as battling cultists and El Gigantes, feature a much more serious tone. Enemies are drenched in darkness, with environments such as Salazar's Castle appearing much more sinister. Other segments of the trailer feature a sneaking section, where the player controls Ashley in a barely-lit room of cultists, and Resident Evil 4 Remake's version of the Raising Platforms puzzle.
The trailer for Resident Evil 4 Remake implies that the story will also be darker, with a particularly interesting scene of Ashley controlled by the Las Plagas, which didn't appear in the original. Holding a knife to Leon, Ashley's eyes are bloodshot, and dark veins branch from them, as she states, "Temperance, child." Some fans speculate that Resident Evil 4 Remake may connect the dots between past entries and the Cult of Mother Miranda, as her insignia could be seen in the title's reveal trailer. If so, Ashley's infection and the cultist ritual surrounding her may play a major part in the remake's original story elements.
Not every action sequence has been given a dark and serious remodel, as the newest Resident Evil 4 Remake trailer features an extended look at Chapter 4's mine cart ride. The set piece looks just as fun and out of place as it did in the original, with Leon and Luis battling cultists on moving mine carts before launching through the air to a new section. The humor of Resident Evil 4 Remake appears to have been toned down, but this section of the trailer confirms that Capcom is working to retrofit some iconic moments for the title. In light of the changes made to Resident Evil 4 Remake's gameplay, it's good to see that fans will have the chance to relive some of the original's most ridiculous action sequences.
Resident Evil 4 Remake Seeks to Modernize Combat
Resident Evil 4 Remake seeks to modernize how players approach the game's combat. In the case of Leon, the title appears to include a complex dodge and parry system, with multiple scenes showing Leon blocking and parrying with his knife. However, the potential biggest change to combat comes in the form of Resident Evil 4's escort sections. Directors for the title confirm that Ashley is set to be self-reliant in Resident Evil 4 Remake, allowing her to take part in combat alongside Leon. The details of her gameplay have not been revealed, but players can expect some new mechanics to be introduced in light of this change. Additionally, fans will be happy to know that finishing moves have been carried over, allowing Leon to defeat enemies with a trademark kick or slam.
According to a recent issue of Game Informer, Resident Evil 4 Remake will not feature QTEs, marking a significant change from the original. Capcom claims the feature to be antiquated and claims to have transformed those sections to better reflect the evolution of modern horror games. However, one of the sequences showcased in this week's State of Play trailer included a cinematic button-mashing section, implying that combat QTEs may appear in some capacity.
Resident Evil 4 Remake is shaping up to be an exhilarating return to the series' most transformative entry. With its darker tone and improved combat, the title looks to deliver a unique experience for new and veteran players alike. Luckily, fans may have the chance to experience its action sooner than expected. A special demo of Resident Evil 4 Remake was announced alongside the title's Mercenaries mode. With the remake only a month away from release, the demo should be expected very soon. Time will tell how extensive changes made to Resident Evil 4 Remake's combat and narrative are. Until then, fans eagerly await more details and the title's rapidly approaching release date.
Resident Evil 4 launches on March 24 for PC, PS4, PS5, and Xbox Series X.
