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Resident Evil 3

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Resident Evil 3
Item: Resident Evil 3
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2020

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Horror, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableApr 3, 2020

PlatformPC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4

DeveloperM-Two

Overview

Resident Evil 3 is a remake of the original Resident Evil 3: Nemesis released in 1999. It updates the story and gameplay for a modern audience. Like the Resident Evil 2 remake, the game uses over-the-shoulder third person point of view similar to Resident Evil 4 and later installments. Players will spend most of their time playing as Jill Valentine, although on some occasions they will assume the role of Carlos Oliveira, giving him more screen time as a deuteragonist.

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Resident Evil 3's remake impresses with refined writing and character development, especially the dynamic between Jill Valentine and Carlos, earning praise for its connections to Resident Evil 2. However, critics lament its linear, rushed narrative lacking depth and player choices, which diminishes emotional impact. While newcomers may enjoy the streamlined story, long-time fans feel shortchanged by its superficiality compared to the original's complexity.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Resident Evil 3 has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, particularly regarding its connection to Resident Evil 2 and the character of Jill Valentine. Critics like Gamers Heroes and Shacknews praised the narrative for its refined writing and character development, especially highlighting the partnership between Jill and Carlos. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Meristation and PC Invasion, noted that the remake offers a more nuanced and cohesive storyline, with expanded character roles and improved dialogue that humanizes the protagonist. The game also successfully retains core elements from the original, allowing fans to appreciate the nostalgic references while experiencing a fresh take on the narrative, as pointed out by JeuxActu and Areajugones. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics leans towards disappointment regarding the story's depth and complexity. Many reviewers, including Riot Pixels and Pure Xbox, criticized the narrative for feeling linear and disjointed, lacking the depth and character development expected from a Resident Evil title. The absence of player choices and multiple endings, which were hallmarks of the original game, was a significant point of contention for critics like Vgames and Multiplayer.it. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as Digitally Downloaded and Game Rant, mentioned that the pacing and structure of the story felt rushed, with essential character moments and quieter scenes omitted, leading to an overall lack of emotional impact. In summary, while Resident Evil 3's story has been praised for its connections to the broader Resident Evil universe and its character portrayals, the consensus among critics is that it falls short in terms of depth and engagement. Critics like Everyeye.it and Games.cz echoed the sentiment that although the remake modernizes Jill's character and presents an action-focused narrative, it lacks the immersive experience and memorable moments that fans of the series have come to expect. Overall, the game seems to appeal to newcomers with its streamlined approach, but long-time fans might find the storytelling lacking in the depth and complexity that defined the original.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

TL;DR: Resident Evil 3 impresses with action-packed gameplay, fluid controls, and a thrilling Nemesis character, but disappoints longtime fans with its linearity, lack of puzzles, and diminished survival horror elements. Critics are divided: while newcomers might enjoy the modernized, action-focused experience, many veterans miss the depth and tension of the original.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Resident Evil 3 has garnered a mix of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its action-oriented mechanics and the introduction of new features. Reviewers such as Game Informer and IGN praised the game for its compelling gunplay and the incorporation of a dodge mechanic, which adds a layer of satisfaction to combat. The fluidity of movement and responsive controls were highlighted by critics like Push Square and EGM, who noted that these elements enhance the overall experience. Additionally, the presence of the Nemesis character adds tension and excitement to encounters, as mentioned by GameSpace and Game Over.gr, creating thrilling moments that engage players in fast-paced action. However, a significant number of reviewers expressed disappointment with the game's linearity and the reduction of traditional survival horror elements. Critics like Pure Xbox and Games.cz criticized the gameplay for being overly scripted and simplified, with fewer puzzles and a lack of depth compared to the original Resident Evil 3. Many noted that the abundance of ammunition and the straightforward nature of the gameplay diminish the survival horror experience, making it feel less challenging and engaging. The absence of complex puzzles and exploration was a recurring theme, with critics such as Everyeye.it and LevelUp pointing out that this shift towards a more action-focused design leads to a less immersive experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Resident Evil 3 successfully modernizes certain gameplay mechanics and delivers an action-packed experience, it sacrifices some of the depth and tension that fans of the series have come to expect. While some reviewers, like Malditos Nerds and Hardcore Gamer, appreciated the balance of action and resource management, others felt that the game lacks the classic Resident Evil charm due to its linear progression and simplified mechanics. This divide suggests that while the game may appeal to newcomers seeking a more action-oriented experience, long-time fans may find it lacking in the survival horror elements that defined the franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Resident Evil 3 is hailed as a visual triumph, with stunning detail and atmospheric environments powered by the RE Engine, showcasing top-tier HDR and lighting effects. Critics praise the realism of character models and immersive settings, particularly in Downtown Raccoon City. However, some highlight flaws like generic environments and repetitive designs, along with minor technical issues. Overall, it’s deemed one of the best-looking entries in the franchise, solidifying its status in the survival horror genre despite some areas needing improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Resident Evil 3 have received widespread acclaim from critics, who generally consider the game to be a significant visual achievement. Many reviewers, such as IGN and AusGamers, praised the stunning detail and atmospheric environments powered by the RE Engine, noting that the game showcases some of the best HDR and lighting effects of the year. Critics like GameStar and Game Revolution highlighted the diverse and expansive environments, particularly in Downtown Raccoon City and the hospital, which contribute to a visually immersive experience. The character models, including those of Jill Valentine and the iconic Nemesis, were frequently commended for their realism and intricate design, with several reviewers noting that the level of detail enhances the horror atmosphere effectively. However, despite the overall positive sentiment, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. For instance, PC Gamer and GameCrate expressed concerns that certain environments felt generic and lacked the personality found in Resident Evil 2's iconic police station. Additionally, critics like Multiplayer.it and PCGamesN mentioned that while the graphics are technically impressive, the overall design can be simplistic and repetitive, particularly in terms of zombie designs and gore effects. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as Gamer Escape and GamePro Germany, noted technical issues with lighting and texture quality, which detracted from the otherwise polished visuals. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Resident Evil 3 delivers a visually stunning experience that successfully builds on its predecessor's strengths. While some reviewers highlighted areas for improvement, such as environmental variety and gore effects, the majority found the graphics to be impressive and well-executed. Critics like GameSpew and Pure Xbox emphasized that the game stands out as one of the best-looking entries in the franchise, showcasing the capabilities of the RE Engine. This blend of striking visuals, detailed character models, and atmospheric design has left a positive impression on the gaming community, solidifying Resident Evil 3's place as a visually compelling title in the survival horror genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Resident Evil 3's sound design and music have received mostly positive reviews, praised for enhancing the game's horror atmosphere and featuring strong voice acting, especially Jill Valentine's. Critics commend the reorchestrated themes for nostalgia. However, some found the music less effective, noting a shift to action-oriented tracks that dilute the horror vibe. Technical issues and moments lacking music also drew criticism. Overall, while there are valid concerns, the sound elements are largely celebrated for creating a tense and immersive experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Resident Evil 3 have garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, with many praising its ability to enhance the game's atmosphere and tension. Critics such as GameSpew and Eurogamer Italy highlighted the effective sound design that contributes significantly to the horror elements, noting how it heightens the immersive experience. The voice acting has also received commendation, particularly Jill Valentine’s portrayal, which was praised by Worth Playing and Gamer.no for its naturalness and emotional depth. Additionally, the incorporation of reorchestrated themes from the original game has been noted by several reviewers, including Atomix and Generación Xbox, who appreciated how these elements contribute to the overall ambiance and nostalgia of the franchise. However, not all feedback has been favorable. Some critics, like Game Rant and Multiplayer.it, expressed disappointment with the music, describing it as lacking the unnerving atmosphere of the original, with a shift towards more action-oriented compositions that detracted from the horror experience. GameCrate echoed this sentiment, stating that the game lacks memorable music and sound design, which could have elevated the overall impact. Furthermore, issues such as voice syncing bugs were mentioned by Video Chums, and some critics like PCMag pointed out that the absence of music in certain moments, while intended to create tension, may have fallen flat for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the sound design and music in Resident Evil 3, with many acknowledging its strengths in creating a tense and immersive atmosphere. While there are valid criticisms regarding the music's effectiveness and some technical issues, the majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the audio elements that enhance the horror experience. Critics like Shacknews and LaPS4 emphasized the critical role of sound design in building tension, indicating that despite some shortcomings, the game largely succeeds in delivering a compelling audio experience that resonates with players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Resident Evil 3's voice acting is widely praised as a major upgrade from the original, with standout performances by Nicole Tompkins (Jill) and Jeff Schine (Carlos) adding depth and emotional engagement. Critics commend the immersive character dynamics, though some note that supporting roles feel underdeveloped and certain dialogue can be cheesy. Overall, the voice acting significantly enhances the game's emotional impact and player experience, despite minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Resident Evil 3 has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who highlight it as a significant improvement over the original game. Reviewers from Areajugones and Atomix emphasize that the voice performances contribute to character depth and emotional engagement, particularly for central characters like Jill Valentine and Carlos Oliveira. Critics such as Critical Hit and Hardcore Gamer praise the actors' performances, noting that they bring the characters to life in a way that enhances immersion and narrative engagement. The overall sentiment is that the voice acting is a strong point of the game, with many reviewers, including Gamer.no and Gaming Nexus, acknowledging the quality of the performances as a key factor in creating a relatable and engaging experience. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics, like Everyeye.it and GameCritics, express mixed feelings about certain character interpretations, suggesting that while main characters are well-voiced, some supporting roles feel underutilized or lack depth. Additionally, GameCritics points out that the action-heavy nature of the game leaves little room for meaningful character interaction, resulting in dialogue that may feel shallow at times. Furthermore, while many reviewers appreciate the overall quality, there are mentions of some dialogue leaning towards cheesiness, as noted by USgamer and GameSpace, which could detract from the serious tone of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Resident Evil 3 represents a substantial upgrade from its predecessor, with many praising the performances of Nicole Tompkins as Jill and Jeff Schine as Carlos for their depth and relatability. Critics like Shacknews and Malditos Nerds highlight how the voice acting contributes positively to character dynamics and the overall narrative. While there are some criticisms regarding certain characters and the dialogue's occasional cheesiness, the overwhelming sentiment is that the voice acting significantly enhances the game's emotional impact and player immersion, making it a standout aspect of the remake.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Resident Evil 3 delivers solid technical performance on PS4 and Xbox One, with smooth 60 FPS gameplay and impressive visuals praised by critics. However, minor frame rate and lip-sync issues have been noted, as well as multiplayer flaws. The Nintendo Switch version struggles with server issues, while the PC version is well-optimized but has some graphical glitches. Overall, Capcom's commitment to quality shines through, despite a few hiccups.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Resident Evil 3 has garnered a largely positive reception across various gaming platforms, particularly on the PS4 and Xbox One. Critics such as Areajugones and Atomix praised the PS4 version for its stable performance, with many reviewers noting that the game consistently runs at 60 frames per second, contributing to an enjoyable gameplay experience. The RE Engine has been highlighted by multiple critics, including Eurogamer Italy and Hobby Consolas, for delivering impressive results and maintaining stability throughout gameplay. On the Xbox One, reviewers like Attack of the Fanboy and MondoXbox echoed similar sentiments, noting that the game runs smoothly without significant performance issues, particularly on the Xbox One X. Overall, the technical execution across these platforms reflects Capcom's commitment to quality, as evidenced by the smooth gameplay and high-resolution visuals appreciated by critics. However, there are some concerns regarding technical performance, particularly on the PS4 and Xbox One. While the PS4 version is generally stable, some critics like Hardcore Gamer pointed out frame rate issues with distant models and lip-syncing problems during gameplay. Additionally, the online multiplayer component has faced criticism for technical flaws, as noted by BaziCenter and Meristation. On the Xbox One, while many reviews were positive, some critics like Press Start Australia mentioned performance problems during intense boss battles, indicating that the game may struggle under certain conditions. The Nintendo Switch version faced its own challenges, with Nintendo Life reporting server connection issues during its cloud release, which detracted from the overall experience. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Resident Evil 3 performs well across platforms, with the PS4 and Xbox One versions receiving the most praise for their technical stability and smooth gameplay. However, minor technical issues, particularly in the multiplayer mode and during specific gameplay scenarios, have been noted and could impact the experience for some players. The PC version also received favorable reviews, with most critics acknowledging its optimization and smooth performance, although some reported minor graphical flaws. Overall, while there are areas for improvement, the technical performance of Resident Evil 3 is seen as a strong aspect of the game, showcasing Capcom's technical prowess.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics are divided on Resident Evil 3's replay value. While some praise its grading system, challenges, and new multiplayer mode as enticing, many are disappointed by its short six-hour campaign, lack of branching paths, and absence of a New Game+ mode. The consensus is that these limitations make the game feel more like an expansion rather than a standalone title, leading to a diminished incentive for multiple playthroughs compared to its predecessor, Resident Evil 2. Overall, the game's replay appeal is overshadowed by its linearity and brevity.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Resident Evil 3 highlight several positive aspects that may entice players to revisit the game. Many reviewers, including Comicbook.com and Digital Chumps, acknowledge the inclusion of a grading system, in-game challenges, and a shop for unlocking items and bonuses, which can enhance the replay experience. Critics like Easy Allies and GameSkinny emphasize that despite the game's short length, the mechanics designed for multiple playthroughs and the availability of different difficulty levels encourage players to engage with the game again. Furthermore, the multiplayer mode, Resident Evil Resistance, is noted by several critics, including Hardcore Gamer and Digital Spy, as a potential source of additional replay value, even if it is not as compelling as previous modes like Mercenaries. However, the negative sentiment surrounding Resident Evil 3's replay value is quite pronounced. Many critics express disappointment with the game's brevity, with several noting that the campaign can be completed in as little as six hours, as highlighted by Push Square and LaPS4. The absence of branching paths, multiple endings, and a New Game+ mode, which were elements that contributed to the replayability of Resident Evil 2, is frequently mentioned as a significant drawback. Critics such as GameCritics and GameCrate underline that the lack of content and linearity makes the game feel more like an expansion than a standalone title, leading to a perception that there is little incentive to replay the game beyond achieving higher scores or completing challenges. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Resident Evil 3 offers some replay value through its unlockable content and challenges, the limitations imposed by its short campaign and linear design significantly dampen the experience. Critics like Wccftech and GameSpot note that the game lacks the depth and variety found in its predecessor, leading to a general sentiment that many players may not find sufficient motivation to engage in multiple playthroughs. Although some reviewers, such as PCMag and Windows Central, argue that the game still provides a decent amount of replayability due to its challenges and collectibles, the overwhelming feedback suggests that Resident Evil 3 falls short of the expectations set by previous entries in the series, particularly in terms of replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding the remake of Resident Evil 3 showcases a blend of appreciation for its technical achievements and a recognition of its shortcomings. Many critics praised the game for its stunning visuals and solid gameplay mechanics. For instance, COGconnected referred to it as a "masterclass in remastering," highlighting the outstanding visuals and immersive gameplay. Similarly, Windows Central commended the game for its balance between action and horror, recommending it for fans of the genre. Critics like The Sydney Morning Herald and Hobby Consolas also lauded the game for its engaging action sequences and technical execution, suggesting that it stands as a worthy entry in the series. However, the critiques often center around the game's perceived lack of depth and brevity. Multiple reviewers, including PC Gamer and BaziCenter, pointed out that the remake feels rushed and unambitious compared to its predecessor, Resident Evil 2. Critics like VG247 and Multiplayer.it echoed these sentiments, noting that the game lacks the narrative depth and content that fans had come to expect. The removal of certain features and the game's short campaign length were frequently cited as significant drawbacks, leading to a consensus that the remake does not fully capture the essence of the original. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a mixed reception for Resident Evil 3. While many acknowledge its visual splendor and engaging gameplay, the majority of reviews highlight its shortcomings in narrative depth and content compared to Resident Evil 2. Critics like Digital Trends and Game Rant emphasized that while the game is enjoyable, it may not be as easily recommended due to its brief length and lack of replay value. Ultimately, while Resident Evil 3 is seen as a solid experience, it seems to fall short of the high expectations set by its predecessor, leaving many players wanting more from this remake.

TL;DR

Resident Evil 3’s remake impresses with stunning visuals and solid gameplay, earning praise as a "masterclass in remastering." However, critics argue it feels rushed and lacks depth compared to Resident Evil 2, citing its short campaign and missing features as major drawbacks. Overall, it's an enjoyable experience but leaves players wanting more.

MONSTER

Reviews

245 reviews found

100

Comicbook.com

PlayStation 4

Apr 4, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Resident Evil 3 is easier than ever to become immersed in Raccoon City and the mechanics have never felt as fluid as they do in this game. It proves that Resident Evil 2 wasn't just a one-off success of a remake and shows that Capcom has a winning formula on its hands.

100

DarkStation

Xbox One

Apr 8, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Resident Evil 3 is an intensely exciting and exceptionally well-made game. It is worth the asking price and proves that the traditional Resident Evil formula works better than other directions the series has taken.

100

Daily Star

PlayStation 4

Mar 30, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised for its tension and action, with Nemesis being a standout character. The increase in focus on action may not appeal to everyone. The game is recommended for those looking for an escape.

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100

The Digital Fix

PlayStation 4

Mar 30, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Resident Evil 3 Remake improves on the original and feels like the culmination of a trilogy. It is a survival horror masterpiece.

Atomix

PlayStation 4

Mar 30, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Resident Evil 3 is a successful remake that honors the original while modernizing gameplay and visuals. It is a must-play for fans of the series and newcomers alike.

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COGconnected

Xbox One

Mar 30, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised for being a masterclass in remastering, with outstanding visuals, sound design, and immersive gameplay. The small imperfections are overshadowed by the overall quality of the package.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox One

Apr 3, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Resident Evil 3 is a solid reinvention with a tense atmosphere and an action slant. It may not be as scary as it could be, but it is better than the majority of titles released this year.

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Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 4

Mar 30, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Resident Evil 3 is a perfect remake that surpasses the original in all aspects, offering a solid experience with impressive technical execution and engaging gameplay.

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SomosXbox

Xbox One

Mar 30, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Resident Evil 3 shifts towards action while maintaining horror elements, featuring memorable enemies and a well-structured campaign. It is recommended for fans of the genre despite some linearity and lack of puzzles.

Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

Mar 31, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review describes Resident Evil 3/Resident Evil Resistance as a solid release that hardcore fans will love and will bring something fresh for newcomers to the series. It is considered a memorable experience.

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