Resident Evil: Revelations 2 - Episode 1: Penal Colony for PC brings back that traditional survival horror feel that fans of the franchise have come to love. As a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast, it's refreshing to see Capcom embrace the roots of the series and deliver an experience reminiscent of classic survival horror games.
The game's atmosphere is undeniably eerie, with dimly lit corridors and haunting sounds that make your heart race. The use of lighting and shadows adds a sense of suspense to the gameplay, making you constantly second-guess what lurks in the darkness. It's a nod to the classics, where tension-building was an art form, and I appreciate the effort put into recreating that feeling.
The gameplay mechanics are solid and will surely satisfy fans of the genre. The controls are responsive, and the weapon handling feels weighty and impactful. The puzzles, while not overly complex, provide a nice challenge and add an extra layer of depth to the gameplay. It's a nice throwback to the days when puzzle-solving was an integral part of the survival horror experience.
Furthermore, the game's retro-inspired graphics add to the nostalgic charm of Resident Evil: Revelations 2 - Episode 1. The gritty, yet detailed environments transport you back to the classic era of gaming. It's a visual treat for those who appreciate the pixelated aesthetic and serves as a reminder of the remarkable progress that has been made in video game graphics since then.
However, despite the game's homage to the retro classics, it falls short in a few crucial areas. The story lacks depth, and the characters feel somewhat underdeveloped. While I appreciate the attempt at creating a compelling narrative, it doesn't quite reach the heights of some of its predecessors. Additionally, the voice acting can be rather lackluster and takes away from the immersion of the game.
Moreover, the pacing of Resident Evil: Revelations 2 - Episode 1 can feel inconsistent at times. Some sections drag on, while others rush by too quickly. This imbalance disrupts the flow of the game and detracts from the overall experience. As a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast, I crave a well-paced gameplay that keeps me engaged from start to finish, and unfortunately, this episode didn't quite deliver in that aspect.
In conclusion, Resident Evil: Revelations 2 - Episode 1: Penal Colony for PC is a mixed bag. It successfully captures the essence of retro survival horror, with its eerie atmosphere and solid gameplay mechanics. The graphics also contribute to its nostalgic appeal. However, the lackluster story, underdeveloped characters, and inconsistent pacing hold it back from becoming a standout entry in the franchise. As a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast, I appreciate the homage to the classics, but I also expect more from a modern release.
