Resident Evil Village

Resident Evil Village is a bold sequel to Resident Evil 7, blending survival horror with action in a gothic, atmospheric setting. Players once again control Ethan Winters as he navigates a mysterious European village dominated by four distinct lords, each offering unique environments and challenges. The game is praised for its stunning graphics, varied gameplay, and memorable characters like Lady Dimitrescu. The RE Engine delivers impressive visuals, from icy mountains to eerie castles, enhancing immersion. Combat and exploration are generally satisfying, with a balanced scarcity of ammo and engaging puzzles. However, the game’s tone shifts between grounded horror and over-the-top action, which some players found jarring. Story-wise, it continues Ethan's harrowing journey but features a campier narrative and occasionally weak character writing compared to its predecessor. Despite some criticisms regarding linearity, boss design, and combat impact, Village remains a captivating experience with strong replay value and a rich, atmospheric world that honors and reinvents the franchise legacy.

Overall, Resident Evil Village offers a thrilling mix of horror and action, delivering a visually stunning and engaging adventure that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Highlights

Players widely praise Resident Evil Village's graphics for their stunning detail and atmospheric environments, ranging from gothic castles to eerie villages. The gameplay mechanics receive commendation for their balanced combat, engaging puzzles, and the satisfying integration of exploration and resource management. The storyline, while divisive, is appreciated for its continuation of Ethan Winters' saga and the introduction of iconic characters like Lady Dimitrescu, adding depth and charm. The variety in level design, with each lord's domain offering distinct challenges and aesthetics, keeps the experience fresh and immersive. Additionally, the game’s blend of survival horror and action elements creates a dynamic pace that maintains player interest throughout the adventure.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the game's combat feeling less impactful, with weapons lacking satisfying feedback and some enemies acting as bullet sponges. Several players note the story and character development as weaker compared to Resident Evil 7, citing clichéd dialogue and a less cohesive narrative. The game’s linear and scripted nature reduces tension and player agency, making some chase sequences and puzzles feel predictable. Boss fights, especially in later stages, are often described as underwhelming or frustrating. Additionally, some players experienced technical issues such as laggy cutscenes on PC. Finally, a few reviews mention that the tonal shifts between horror and action can be jarring, affecting the overall immersion and horror atmosphere.