Returning to a Nightmare
Overview
The game unfolds with Leon (who's now an agent for the government). And his
assignment is to rescue the President's kidnapped daughter. Alot's changed
since the Raccoon incident, but Leon's never forgotten about it. He still
recalls his time there, and a certain lady..
RE4 does not forget its roots in the slightest, but amps up the "tensity"
even more. These new obstacles, and unkind faces are not zombies. Human, but
definitely not "normal". And another reason why Leon was chosen for this
mission.. and somehow something doesnt feel right. *honestly, when does it
ever?
Along the way, you'll acquire various weapons, from guns, to much, much
more. At a cost though.. after obtaining a certain amount of pesetas, you
can buy said items from merchants. Friendly fellows that ware a trenchcoat,
with lots of ammo tucked inside. (just how did he get this stuff anyway?)
That about sums up a tidbit about the game, onto the review guests.
Graphics 10/10
Ever since RE 1's remake, the in-game engine really changed the focus on
what the series was designed for. It completely touched how "real" some of
these characters really were, maybe too real. The same can be said for RE4,
the engine is pushed to new heights.. from character, to background detail,
without a hint of slowdown. Truly something you can take a break, and just
notice what's going within the game itself.
Character design +
The RE engine really shows its other side for RE4. Bringing back Leon, was a
notable, and great effort. The CD (character design team) really went to
great lengths, to bring him true to life. Its becoming very difficult to
tell if he's a video game character, or someone you passed by down the
street. Most notably, its easy to notice Leon's also aged since we last saw
him. More agile, on his feet, quick and resolving, and a bit more to follow.
Not just Leon worth noting, but also his co-stars Ada, Ashley and Luis.
Its honestly tough to put in words how intricate design was put into making
these characters come to life.
Background design +
Everything you see, real-time, (leaves falling, cows and barn animals in farm
etc..) Its those small details worth noting, and what happens around your
character. Not just the active areas, but even the quiet, and dark moments.
They show a different emotion each time you may pass by. These will all
change during the game, mostly dark, and tough to see. But when you can see
the detail during the daytime, it emulates very well.
++ forgot to mention the game starts out during a "cold" fall / winter.. so
you'll probably see Leon's breathing during mid-sections of the game.
Gameplay/Controls 10/10
The setup within RE4 is a refined one. Your perspective is from 3rd person,
behind the shoulder type view. In addition, your targeting aim is determined
by the laser embedded in the target system. In-game map covers every detail
of what you've come across, and later you can buy an extra map from nearby
merchants.
In-game actions are confirmed by just a touch, plus you can interchange what
weapons and other items in your inventory. Also worth noting, during
specific cutscenes, you'll be given a random set of buttons to react with.
played Shenmue, imagine seeing the huge rollerball about to Indiana Jones.
And now you have desperate seconds to get out of the way. *Press L+R to get
out of the boulder's way!!
Using the Gamecube or PS2 controller, the setup takes a bit getting used to.
But with enough time spent adjusting, it will be like a glove. (*extra note
the PS2 controls may differ from the GC version) Along the way, you'll
obtain in-game manuals on how to use the controls to their extent, and find
new ways to play the game further
Sound/Music 10/10
From where the series left off (somewhere in the mix), the audio (sound fx and
music) have always been the most detailed. From ambient sounds, to mood felt
songs playing during certain moments. The sound fx within RE4 are
astounding, you can literally "feel" everything going on around you. From
rustling leaves, to Leon's footsteps (and breathing).
Aside from the onset, even the voice acting is even better in this
installment (RE Remake =also excellent). Leon's voice is a bit more mature,
but his usual self. Ashley (prez's daughter) also fits her character. Luis
(Leon's ally during the mission), really tones very well, maybe too well.
And another familiar face from the past, Ada. (who sounds cool as always)
Plus your unfriendly faces also have great voices as well. Especially the
townsfolk, which you definitely need to keep an ear out for, that's the only
clue you'll need to survive.. Next to the townsfolk, various foes also come
true to life, both menacing, and distinct. Very well done.
Aside from the ambience, there are several themese within RE4. Like the past
games, the soundtrack has always stood out the most. With RE4, there are
themes of "tense", "quiet", "hunted", and much more.. The soundtrack, though
mixed with the in-game ambience is par excellence, definitely worth turning
up the speakers (or headphones) and produced for Dolby Digital Sound
Replay Value 10/10
Within RE4, start a new game, things will be different. Unlocked costumes,
and additional weapons. Plus an extra set of missions to take a shot at.
Quite a bit of variety to find here. But hope you make it that far.
Overall 10/10
This entry in the series completely revamps everything left behind. You no
longer have to worry about the controls. The design of the game is refined,
from the ground up, its not the RE you used to know. Everything about RE4 is
just par excellence, and you can't turn something like that away.
Xtra Notes -
+word to the wise (RE longtime fans), if you have enough ammo, use what you
can. Don't overdo it, never know an unfriendly face may attack at any given
time.
+Upgrading your weapons is a must, but use your money wisely. At anytime,
talk to the merchants, they'll be glad to offer from their selection.
+Found those herbs? Combine and fuse! But keep some extra herbs handy, never
know when you might need them. Plus as always, certain mixtures can be
useful, but decide when's the best time. You'll find these ever so often.
+During a small segment before each chapter, you'll talk with Agent
Hunnigan. (via video phone) *and actually a direct nod to the Codec featured
in Hideo Kojima's Metal Gear series.
- by Rob Turner
