‘Resident Evil: Revelations 2’ Review

As Resident Evil fans await the arrival of the next numbered entry in the longstanding franchise, Capcom has opted to release a sequel to the critically shrugged-upon Resident Evil: Revelations. Aptly titled Resident Evil: Revelations 2, the game can be approached episodically – making the pacing and structure of each episode feel much more engaging in the process – or as a full retail release.

The end result is a third-person shooter that isn’t afraid of giving fans a few scares while keeping them hooked on the story, but the overall look of the title is a sight responsible for sore eyes.

Throwing two pairs of new and familiar characters into leading roles, Resident Evil: Revelations 2 ensures that gamers will be engaged with the story that’s unfolding in front of them. The first set of protagonists are Claire Redfield and newcomer Moira Burton (Barry’s estranged daughter), with the second set being comprised of returning, fan-favorite Barry Burton and a mysterious little girl named Natalia.

Capcom has ensured that each pairing feels unique, allowing different pairs of partners to accomplish different tasks. While Claire and Moira focus on stockpiling ammo and using it sparingly, Barry and Natalia have a bit more leniency it terms of the big bruiser’s armaments and ammunition. This makes each chapter feel distinct, and there’s something new and enticing with each segment of the game – despite retreading over existing environments. Still, swapping between each duo is necessary for single-player playthroughs, and it only builds upon the unique approach that accompanies the rehashed environments.

Depending on how fans decide to play through the game – whether it be episodically or a full steam ahead approach – will impact the way they enjoy the title. Going chapter by chapter, with the option to continue through a paywall allows fans to experience the story in a way that is more likely to keep them hooked – thanks largely to the cliff hanger ending that awaits them. Regardless of how users choose to progress through the story, however, the end result is a very affordable romp that provides fans with a new entry in a longstanding and beloved series.

While the method of pay is impactful, it’s not surprising that Resident Evil: Revelations 2 has been given a lower price point right off the bat. This is because the game itself isn’t a very good looking title by any stretch of the imagination. The environments that players traverse through and even the enemies they are forced to eliminate are lacking visually, and look more comparable to a past-gen title than something that belongs on current-gen platforms.

Admittedly, the game is also available on Xbox 360 and PS3, but there has been little (if any) effort into making the titles look better on other platforms. Still, the story is interesting enough to help players overlook the mediocre aesthetics, and it’s only made better by a medley of other gameplay option and features that will keep players entertained for many hours.

One of these features is the ability to play local split-screen or online co-op with friends. Since there are at least two protagonists aiding one another in any chapter, jumping into a game is essentially a breeze. Depending on which central character the main player is using, the second player will take on a very different role. Moira is capable of mashing foes with a crowbar and locating hidden object with her flashlight, while Natalia can detect shambling baddies through walls and club them with a rogue brick – provided she has one equipped.

These aspects of co-op allow for very different experiences depending on the chapter, but the game encourages users to work with one another at all times. While arguments are sure to stem from which player gets to be the gun-toting Barrie Burton or Claire Redfield, the experience as a whole is an enjoyable one that encourages an ample amount teamwork that only deepens as the story progresses.

Finally, there’s Resident Evil: Revelations 2‘s Raid Mode. Meant to serve as an incentive to keep playing long after the campaign has come to a close, Raid Mode allows players to trek through a shooting gala loaded with the gruesome undead. Completing several areas within a certain amount of time, maintaining accuracy, and dolling out maximum damage will raise the number of points that gamers receive at the end of their run. At which point players can upgrade their weapons, receive medals, and unlock several different items for use within the mode.

Overall, Revelations 2 offers an engaging story that doesn’t take itself too seriously, enjoyable co-op multiplayer, and a worthwhile reason to revisit the game thanks to its surprisingly addictive Raid Mode. Still, the game itself is far from a decent looking entry in the Resident Evil franchise, and that holds true for the enemies and the unimaginative areas that they fill. With that said, its discounted price makes the game an affordable and fun-filled romp for consumers.

Trailer

Resident Evil: Revelations 2 is currently available on PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360 and Xbox One. Game Rant was provided Xbox One code for this review.