We recently got the opportunity to preview some short snippets of Resident Evil 4 remake gameplay, and Capcom is holding back just how much work has gone into this game. For the first time, we see that at least one part of RE4 has been greatly expanded upon, which has enormous implications. It was obvious there would be some changes, but it seems we’ve underestimated how far the developer has gone.
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A sneak peek at some big RE4 changes
Unfortunately, we couldn’t share the entire Resident Evil 4 remake gameplay footage we received with you. So, we’ve chopped it up into this mini-preview to highlight some of the most important bits and some of our speculation about it:
Expanded Content
It seems the lake area has been expanded, and instead of parking the boat for good after defeating Del Lago, you’re given a chance to explore. The original game was an entirely linear experience and done right, small open segments might be a great way to prevent tunnel vision from setting in.
Caverns branch off the lake, and they may serve as a hub for the game.
With an expanded lake comes new puzzles. This area in the video, in particular, holds a keypad puzzle that you’ll need to find the code for. This one doesn’t seem too hard to track down, as it looks like the correct symbols are painted on walls throughout the area.
The game’s organization has also been changed. In the original game, Chapter 4 begins with Leon and Ashley’s reunion inside the castle. So, it’s possible Resident Evil 4 remake isn’t divided into subchapters like the original, which would mean we’ve got a whole new numbering system.
The Merchant
Our brief clip of the merchant shows that interacting with him in the Resident Evil 4 remake is much the same as it was in the original. However, we also see recipes for sale, which further confirms crafting has been added to the game.
The game’s iconic Attache Case system has been expanded as well. In the video, the player has a silver case that increases the drop rate for handgun ammo and a black one that increases the drop rate for resources (L). The cases can also be equipped with charms. In this case, the player has the Chicken charm, which grants +100% for all egg types.
Some things stay the same
Despite the significant differences we noted above, some sequences are almost directly lifted from the original. For example, the fight against Salazar’s goons in the castle is very similar, though the new Bolt Thrower mines make pretty short work of them.
Iconic monsters like the Garrador make their return as well. Here, the player uses the new stealth mechanic to get the edge on the terrifying creature.
Despite rumors to the contrary, Krauser also makes his return. However, instead of being a QTE sequence, you’ll have to use the new parry mechanic to fight him yourself.
The Evil Has Just Begun
We’ll leave you all with a gallery of random screenshots from some of the parts of the video we couldn’t post. Luckily, we don’t have long to wait to see the whole thing. Resident Evil 4 remake releases on March 24, 2023, for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.