Resident Evil 5 Review

Resident Evil 5, developed and published by Capcom, originally launched in 2009 and later received an HD remaster for the PlayStation 4 in 2016. This installment controversially shifted the series further towards action horror, emphasizing co-op multiplayer over traditional survival horror elements. This Resident Evil 5 PS4 review explores its strengths, particularly as a cooperative experience.

Gameplay: Two Heroes, One Mission

The defining feature of Resident Evil 5 is its mandatory co-op gameplay. Players primarily control Chris Redfield, joined by his new partner, Sheva Alomar. This partnership is central to every aspect of the game, from combat to puzzle-solving and inventory management. Both characters share an inventory, requiring constant communication and strategic item distribution, especially in online co-op.

The game retains the over-the-shoulder third-person shooter perspective introduced in Resident Evil 4, but with a faster pace and more aggressive enemies. Hordes of infected “Majini” attack from all sides, often wielding weapons. While the inability to move and shoot simultaneously can feel dated by modern standards, it adds a layer of tension and forces players to position themselves carefully. The PS4 remaster provides a smoother framerate and higher resolution, making the action feel more fluid than its original console counterparts.

• Mandatory cooperative gameplay with an AI or human partner
• Action-oriented third-person shooter combat
• Strategic inventory management and item sharing
• Improved resolution and framerate on PS4
• Intense boss battles and enemy encounters

Story and Setting: A Global Conspiracy in Africa

The narrative of Resident Evil 5 takes Chris Redfield to the fictional region of Kijuju, Africa, to investigate a bioterrorist threat involving the Uroboros virus. The story quickly escalates, bringing back fan-favorite characters like Albert Wesker and the mysterious return of Jill Valentine.

The plot is a bombastic, action-movie spectacle, delving deeper into the origins of the Resident Evil universe’s overarching conspiracies. While some found the shift in tone jarring compared to earlier, more horror-focused entries, it delivers a thrilling conclusion to several long-running character arcs.

Graphics and Sound: Visually Enhanced Horror

On the PS4, Resident Evil 5 benefits from its HD remaster, showcasing more detailed environments and character models. The vibrant, sun-drenched landscapes of Africa provide a stark contrast to the series’ usual dark, gothic settings, yet still manage to convey a sense of dread.

The sound design is effective, with unsettling ambient noises, the distinct cries of the Majini, and a dramatic orchestral score that punctuates intense moments. The voice acting is generally solid, contributing to the game’s cinematic feel.

Legacy: A Divisive But Popular Entry

Resident Evil 5 remains a divisive title among fans, primarily due to its strong pivot towards action. However, it was a commercial success and is widely praised for its robust co-op experience. It proved that the Resident Evil formula could effectively translate into a more action-oriented, multiplayer-focused game, influencing subsequent titles in the series and beyond.

Is Resident Evil 5 on PS4 Worth Playing Today?

Yes, Resident Evil 5 on PS4 is still worth playing today, especially if you have a friend to join you for the online co-op. Its intense action, satisfying combat, and compelling narrative make for a thrilling experience. While it may not be a traditional survival horror game, it offers a unique and highly enjoyable chapter in the Resident Evil saga, now looking better than ever on the PlayStation 4.