Genre: TPS Survival Horror | Developer: Capcom | Release Date: 2009
Published by Capcom and released for Xbox 360, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, and PlayStation 4. The game follows BSAA agents Chris Redfield and Sheva Alomar of a bio-terrorist threat in Kijuju.
Campaign
Resident Evil 5 delivers an extensive and action-packed campaign that maintains the franchise’s signature horror elements while embracing a more action-oriented approach. The story follows Chris Redfield and newcomer Sheva Alomar as they battle the growing bioterrorist threat in Africa, uncovering the sinister truth behind the Uroboros virus. The narrative is engaging, featuring returning characters like Albert Wesker, whose presence adds weight to the overarching Resident Evil lore. Sheva is a strong addition to the cast, though her character development feels somewhat underutilized.
The campaign can be played solo or in co-op, both locally and online, offering a dynamic gameplay experience. However, playing solo can be frustrating due to Sheva’s AI, which often hinders more than helps in critical moments. The story itself is compelling, with some thrilling set pieces and intense boss battles, but it suffers from a rigid linear structure. There is little room for deviation or choice, making each playthrough largely the same, regardless of difficulty settings. While predictable at times, the campaign is lengthy and packed with enough action, puzzles, and cinematic moments to keep players engaged.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Gameplay
The gameplay in Resident Evil 5 is a blend of fast-paced third-person shooting and cooperative mechanics, making it one of the most action-driven entries in the series. The gunplay feels tight and responsive, with a wide array of weapons and upgrades to unlock. Enemies are aggressive and well-equipped, using cover, firearms, and even shields, adding layers of challenge and strategy to combat encounters. Quick Time Events are used sparingly but effectively, keeping players engaged during key sequences.
The cooperative element is a double-edged sword. When played with another human, Resident Evil 5 shines as a thrilling co-op experience. However, in single-player, Sheva’s AI can be a major issue. She often wastes ammo, struggles with providing support, and occasionally stands idly while the player gets overwhelmed. This can make certain sections unnecessarily difficult, especially in boss fights where precise teamwork is crucial.
While the gameplay is fluid and exciting, it doesn’t innovate much beyond what Resident Evil 4 established. The core mechanics remain largely unchanged, and there are few surprises for veteran players of the series. Despite this, Resident Evil 5 offers a robust selection of additional modes, including The Mercenaries and Versus Mode, which add considerable replay value.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Production
Visually, Resident Evil 5 is one of the most impressive entries in the franchise. The character models are highly detailed, and the environments—ranging from sun-scorched villages to underground laboratories—are rich in atmosphere. The lighting and shading effects enhance the oppressive tone of the game, immersing players in its tense world.
The cutscenes are well-directed, featuring dynamic cinematography and high-quality motion capture that makes character interactions feel fluid and natural. The action-heavy sequences are exhilarating, keeping players invested in the unfolding events. The creature and enemy designs are both grotesque and terrifying, maintaining Resident Evil’s legacy of unsettling bioweapon monstrosities.
The audio design is equally strong. The soundtrack intensifies during combat, with fast-paced orchestral pieces heightening the tension. Meanwhile, ambient sounds like distant growls and unsettling whispers build suspense in quieter moments. The voice acting is exceptional, with Roger Craig Smith delivering a solid performance as Chris Redfield, while Karen Dyer brings depth to Sheva Alomar. D.C. Douglas’s portrayal of Albert Wesker is a standout, exuding menace and theatrical villainy that make him one of the most memorable antagonists in the series.
Rating: 5 out of 5
In the end, Resident Evil 5 may have shifted away from survival horror toward a more action-heavy experience, but it remains a fantastic entry in the series. With an engaging campaign, excellent visuals, thrilling co-op gameplay, and tons of replayability, it offers plenty for fans to enjoy. Despite its predictable story and frustrating AI, the game’s strengths outweigh its flaws. Resident Evil 5 gets 4 out of 5.
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