Resident Evil / Biohazard HD Remaster is a premium game from Capcom, the Japanese developer behind the popular horror series and other well-loved titles, including Devil May Cry, Mega Man, and Street Fighter. 

Being a remastered version of the original 1996 Resident Evil game, this iteration boasts post-processing effects, high-resolution graphics, improved sound design, and widescreen mode. Resident Evil / Biohazard HD Remaster also includes a new control scheme as well as the original tank controls, with the option to switch to either one at any time. The fixed camera, though, is a turn-off for some players.

The mansion is a puzzle

Set in 1998, Resident Evil / Biohazard HD Remaster begins with the deployment of the S.T.A.R.S (Special Tactics and Rescue Service) Bravo Team—an elite unit of the Racoon City Police Department—to the city outskirts to conduct a murder investigation. The team’s investigation turned for the worst as undead dogs attacked S.T.A.R.S, forcing the group to retreat into an ominous mansion.

Depending on whether the player has selected Chris Redfield or Jill Valentine, there will be changes to the intro and succeeding cutscenes. Unfortunately, the mansion is not exactly a safe haven. Spacious and labyrinthine, the player explores and backtracks through the many interconnected doors and corridors of the mansion, picking up ammo, first-aid sprays, herbs, weapons, and other key items and maneuvering around—or killing—zombies inside the eerie estate. 

However, the player character doesn’t have to kill all the zombies. In fact, they should not engage in combat unless the situation calls for it—such as a boss fight. On top of the limited ammo and healing items, the Ink Ribbons are also in limited supply. Without an Ink Ribbon, the player won’t be able to use the typewriter and save their progress.

Experience true survival horror

Despite the graphical improvements, Resident Evil / Biohazard HD Remaster manages to preserve the tense, eerie vibe of the original game—making exploration a more spine-chilling experience. Moreover, the limited number of items encourages strategic saving and resource management, requiring you to think and plan ahead. The option to select between Chris and Jill is a plus, of course, but the backtracking and fixed camera may not appeal to all players.