As an explorer of digital worlds, few journeys have gripped me like my trek through Raccoon City in Capcom’s Resident Evil 2 remake. From stepping off the back of that overturned police truck to the breath-catching confrontation in the underground lab, the game delivers a master class in survival horror. With that in mind, here’s my breakdown of what makes Resident Evil 2 a modern classic—and a few areas where it stumbles.
Overall Impressions
Resident Evil 2 redefines what a remake can be. Rather than offering a simple texture bump, Capcom rebuilt the game from the ground up using the RE Engine, first seen in Resident Evil 7. As a result, the experience feels brand-new yet familiar to fans of the 1998 original. More importantly, it balances pulse-pounding action with puzzle segments, creating a rhythm few survival horror titles can match. In comparison to both older and newer entries in the genre, this remake sets a benchmark for atmosphere and pacing. On rare occasions, the “B” routes for each protagonist feel truncated; however, they still work as useful tests of your knowledge of item locations and layout.
Gameplay Mechanics
The loop of exploring, scavenging, and surviving never grows stale. From the start, inventory management is crucial—every slot matters, and every decision can mean life or death. As a result, I often debated whether to carry extra health spray or swap it for ammo after a tense encounter. Combat is weighty and deliberate; furthermore, each shot carries real tension, and Mr. X’s thunderous footsteps keep you on edge.
Standout mechanics mix cinematic over-the-shoulder tension with old-school puzzle charm. Consequently, patience and note-taking are rewarded. Replay value soars thanks to unlockable modes like “4th Survivor” and thrilling Mr. X chases. While second runs reuse much of the story, shifting key item locations keeps route planning fresh.
Story and Characters
Resident Evil 2’s story remains a high point for survival horror. Playing as rookie cop Leon S. Kennedy or college student Claire Redfield, I felt genuine urgency in every corridor. In particular, Leon’s determination and Claire’s resilience shine through nuanced mocap performances. Nick Apostolides and Nicole Tompkins bring these roles vividly to life. Meanwhile, Ada Wong’s return adds intrigue, with motives carefully designed to keep you guessing until the final moments.
The Raccoon City Police Department, sewers, and underground lab connect seamlessly. Moreover, everywhere you turn, each room tells its own story—blood-soaked memos, abandoned desks, and flickering lights hint at unseen terrors.
Visuals and Graphics
Capcom’s decision to rebuild from scratch paid off. The RE Engine’s real-time lighting renders skin tones, grime, and gore with astonishing realism. I’ll never forget the first time I saw a zombie’s decayed face in the glow of my flashlight. Facial animations are expressive enough to send chills with a single glance. There are few zombie models, but variations in posture and decay keep them from feeling repetitive. Environments brim with detail—peeling wallpaper, rusted grates, and damp concrete add to the oppressive tone.
Sound and Music
Silence becomes a weapon in Resident Evil 2. Most of the time, you hear only environmental sounds—distant moans, squealing doors, dripping water. I often paused to listen for the groan of a lurking zombie or the pounding of Mr. X’s boots. When the music swells, it heightens emotional stakes perfectly. Voice acting remains strong across the board, grounding every line without slipping into melodrama.
Difficulty and Replayability
The game offers multiple difficulties, from forgiving “Casual” to merciless “Hardcore.” Exploration rewards you with extra ammo, weapons, and costumes. Completing Leon’s and Claire’s campaigns unlocks the “B” scenarios, plus the punishing Tofu and Mr. X modes. Some players may find the second runs too similar to the first, but mastering puzzles and weapon placements on a new route is deeply satisfying. For newcomers, this remake is an ideal entry point thanks to clear tutorials and modern controls.
Developer Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Capcom’s R&D Division 1, led by Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, had a clear mission: preserve the original’s essence while modernizing its design. Over 2.5 years, more than 150 team members used photogrammetry and motion capture to deliver lifelike characters and immersive environments. Powered by an enhanced RE Engine, the remake introduced dynamic shadows and detailed material shaders, creating one of the most visually stunning survival horror experiences ever made.
Final Thoughts
Resident Evil 2 is a triumph—a gripping story, tense encounters, and an atmosphere that pulses with dread. The lean B campaigns are a minor drawback, barely affecting the overall quality. Whether you’re a veteran or a newcomer, Raccoon City delivers an experience you won’t forget.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
