A masterclass in survival horror, this remake modernizes a classic with brilliant pacing, terrifying atmosphere, and emotionally resonant characters, setting a new benchmark for the genre and standing as a modern masterpiece.
Resident Evil 2 plunges its protagonists into a city already in its death throes. The opening is a masterclass in establishing mood, slowly building a palpable sense of dread in the dark, zombie-infested outskirts of Raccoon City before dual protagonists Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield find treacherous refuge in the city's ornate police department. The narrative cleverly weaves their two independent storylines together, creating a shared timeline that enhances the feeling of being a small part of a much larger, interconnected disaster.
The gameplay is defined by its bold shift to an over-the-shoulder perspective, a choice that enhances the tension rather than diminishing it. Movement is deliberately clunky, making the characters feel vulnerable and defenseless against the horrors they face. This is not an action game; it is a desperate struggle for survival where resource management is paramount. Juggling ammo, health items, and key puzzle pieces is a constant challenge, forcing methodical exploration of the labyrinthine police station, which functions as a brilliant, Metroidvania-esque puzzle box in itself.
The horror is amplified by exceptional sound and visual design. Familiar monsters are more terrifying than ever, but the true star is the relentless Mr. X, a persistent and unstoppable tyrant whose thundering footsteps create a constant state of anxiety. The writing elevates its B-movie roots with genuine emotional weight, giving secondary characters tangible arcs and transforming the zombie apocalypse into a graveyard filled with tragedy and despair. It is a stylish, self-aware, and emotionally effective experience that stands as one of the best examples of the survival horror genre.
