In 2023, Capcom is going back to one of the most influential titles in modern gaming with a remake of Resident Evil 4. It follows a recent trend in Resident Evil to reinvent and reinvigorate the iconic franchise for a new generation, with new gameplay mechanics, story, and visuals. While the release of Resident Evil 4 remake is only two months away, there may be a few more surprises from the Resident Evil franchise in the months ahead as well as beyond the release of Resident Evil 4 remake.
The original Resident Evil 4 is considered by many to be a pioneer in the third-person action-shooter genre. The game has received multiple ports throughout the years including HD re-releases, mobile versions, and the most recent Resident Evil 4 VR version. For 2023, Capcom is putting much of its focus on the release of Resident Evil 4 remake, especially considering that many fans believe the original to be the best in the series.
The Current State of Resident Evil 4 Remake
Resident Evil 4 remake has been a long-rumored project that was only officially announced relatively recently. The game was reportedly in development at M-Two, the developer behind Resident Evil 3 remake. However, it was later reported that Resident Evil 4 remake development switched to Capcom Division 1, one of the more senior development teams that have led the series previously.
Even with the supposed development switch, Resident Evil 4 remake looks to be on track for an on-time release. It was recently stated by game producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi that development is in the "final spurt" and that there are no expected delays at the studio leading up to its release on March 24th.
It was also recently reported that the controversial island section from the original won't be cut. Instead, the divisive section of the original Resident Evil 4 is being expanded for the 2023 remake. This bodes well for more of the game's purists who may be hoping to keep much of the same content while hoping the remake improves upon it in some ways.
Resident Evil 4 Remake Release and Pre-Launch Build-Up
It's highly likely that at least one more trailer will be shown for Resident Evil 4 remake before launch. Capcom has been a major highlight for Sony during its recent State of Plays, as both Resident Evil 4 remake and Street Fighter 6 were revealed at the June 2 State of Play. More news will likely be shared at the next State of Play, but it's also possible that Capcom may host another showcase to spotlight development on its many projects.
There is also a possibility of a demo for Resident Evil 4 remake however, that is unconfirmed and speculation at this point. Resident Evil has released demos in the past leading up to the launch of its titles, including demos for Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, Resident Evil 3 remake, and Resident Evil Village. But as of now, Capcom has not mentioned anything about a demo for Resident Evil 4 remake.
After the launch of Resident Evil 4 remake, there is a possibility for DLC for the game, but it will most likely be cosmetic only. While Resident Evil 7:Biohazard and Resident EvilVillage have had large story expansions such as the most recent Resident Evil Village: Shadow of Rose, the previous Resident Evil remakes did not receive any major story DLC. This leads many to believe Resident Evil 4 remake will most likely be the same.
Resident Evil and VR
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It's been revealed that both Resident Evil 4 remake and Resident Evil Village are getting VR support for PSVR2. It's unclear whether Resident Evil 4 remake will receive full VR support or whether it will only be partial, where only select areas are playable in VR. It's also unknown whether VR support will be available at the game's release. More news about the topic will likely be shared closer to the game's release.
There is good news, however, for Resident Evil Village as it's been announced that a VR update will be released on February 22, the same day PSVR2 releases. The VR Mode is free for owners of Resident Evil Village and includes the ability to control Ethan's hands separately as well as a chance to dual-wield weapons.
What's After Resident Evil Village
In October 2022, Resident Evil Village received a brand-new edition titled Resident Evil Village: GoldEdition, most likely capping off support for the game, outside of VR mode. It's likely that there are no more planned story expansions for Resident Evil Village seeing as how the focus is mostly now on Resident Evil 4 remake. That doesn't effectively rule out the possibility, however, as Capcom has put out content even after a "definitive edition" has been released, as was the case with Street Fighter V. Although the likelihood of any more major content is still low.
It's unknown where the Resident Evil franchise will go after Resident Evil Village and after the Resident Evil 4 remake. If there are any hints about what's ahead for Resident Evil, it may be given near the end of the year, but more likely early next year, although that's entirely speculation based on past marketing patterns for the series.
Updates Regarding Other Resident Evil Material
Outside of Resident Evil 4 remake, Capcom has also been supporting their online multiplayer title Resident Evil Re:Verse over the past few months. Capcom has added new characters and locations to the game since its release in October. However, it's unknown how long support will last considering the mediocre critical reception of the game.
In other Resident Evil news, the live-action Netflix TV show simply titled Resident Evil will not be receiving a second season. There's also no word on Netflix's animated series titled Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness and whether it'll receive a second season. And nothing official has been said about a sequel to the live-action film Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City. But considering the tendency to continue making Resident Evil adaptations despite low sales and negative critical reception, it wouldn't be surprising at all if either of these projects gets greenlit for a sequel, or if something entirely new comes out later this year.
Resident Evil 4 Remake releases on March 24, 2023, for PC, PS4, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
