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Resident Evil 7: biohazard

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Resident Evil 7: biohazard
Item: Resident Evil 7: biohazard
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2017

GenresVirtual Reality, Adventure, Action, Shooter, Crime, Horror, Puzzle and Logic, Drama, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableJan 23, 2017

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

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is the first game of the Resident Evil series to switch from 3rd-person to fully 1st-person perspective. A complete refresh of gameplay systems simultaneously propels the survival horror experience to another level. It is as much horror as it is survival, boosting up scare elements and minimizing downright shooting action. The game allows use of Sony's PSVR Headset to play in VR mode.

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard has been praised for its gripping narrative and return to horror roots, focusing on Ethan Winters' search for his wife in the eerie Baker estate. Critics laud its layered storytelling and tense atmosphere, though some note flaws like reliance on clichés and a weak finale. Overall, it's a revitalizing success for the franchise, offering an immersive experience for both fans and newcomers, despite some narrative hiccups.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging narrative and return to the franchise's horror roots. Many reviewers, such as Easy Allies and Push Square, praised the story for its compelling premise centered around Ethan Winters' desperate search for his missing wife, Mia, set against the backdrop of the eerie Baker family estate. Critics like Gamer.no and BaziCenter noted that the narrative unfolds in a layered manner, gradually revealing deeper conspiracies and engaging mysteries that keep players invested. The atmosphere of dread and tension, reminiscent of classic horror titles, was also commended by several reviewers, including DarkStation, who appreciated the character-driven nature of the story, drawing inspiration from beloved horror sources. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the story's execution. Riot Pixels and Digitally Downloaded criticized the narrative for relying on genre clichés and lacking depth in character development, leading to a sense of mediocrity. Quarter to Three echoed this sentiment, mentioning that while the story starts strong, it suffers from a sagging middle and a disappointing finale. Others, like TheSixthAxis and Game Informer, highlighted that the over-explanation of certain plot elements in the final act detracted from the initial intrigue, suggesting that the story could have benefited from a more subtle approach. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Resident Evil 7: Biohazard presents a compelling and engaging story that successfully revitalizes the franchise while maintaining its horror essence. While some reviewers noted flaws in character depth and narrative coherence, the majority found the experience to be immersive and captivating. Critics such as Impulsegamer and God is a Geek emphasized the effective atmosphere and mystery that the game builds, allowing players to feel part of a larger narrative. Ultimately, despite its criticisms, the story of Resident Evil 7 is seen as a significant achievement that resonates well with both fans of the series and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is lauded for its immersive first-person gameplay and a return to survival horror roots, blending exploration, resource management, and engaging puzzles. Critics praise its tense atmosphere and memorable boss fights, but some note issues with linearity, simplistic puzzles, and mediocre enemy AI. Overall, it revitalizes the genre, appealing to both new players and series veterans despite some flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard has garnered significant praise from critics, with many highlighting its return to the series' survival horror roots. The first-person perspective is frequently mentioned as a key element that enhances immersion and tension, making players feel more vulnerable in their environment. Critics like Shacknews and Polygon noted that the gameplay effectively combines exploration, resource management, and puzzle-solving, creating a rich atmosphere of dread and engagement. The crafting system and the emphasis on limited resources were also well-received, with outlets such as GameSpew and Push Square commending the balance between action and defense mechanics. Additionally, the game features memorable boss fights and unique moments, as pointed out by GamingTrend and GameSpot, which contribute to a thrilling experience. Despite the overall positive sentiment, some critics did express concerns regarding certain aspects of the gameplay. A recurring theme was the linearity and repetitiveness of the game, with Quarter to Three and LaPS4 noting that the gameplay can feel constrained, particularly in the latter stages. Critics like Riot Pixels pointed out frustrating combat mechanics and a lack of effective stealth options, while others, such as IGN Italia and The Escapist, mentioned that puzzles could sometimes be overly simplistic. Additionally, the AI of enemies was described as mediocre by GameOver.gr, which detracted from the overall challenge and engagement during encounters. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Resident Evil 7: Biohazard offers a compelling and immersive gameplay experience that successfully revitalizes the survival horror genre. While there are valid criticisms regarding linearity, puzzle difficulty, and combat mechanics, the majority of reviewers, including Game Revolution and Attack of the Fanboy, agree that the game manages to deliver a fresh and engaging experience that resonates with both new players and long-time fans of the series. The combination of exploration, resource management, and the first-person perspective creates a tense atmosphere that has made a lasting impression on the gaming community.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Resident Evil 7: biohazard wows critics with its haunting visuals and immersive atmosphere, thanks to the RE Engine and meticulous design of environments like the Baker residence. While the game excels in dark settings, some reviews note issues like blurry textures and graphical glitches, particularly in cutscenes and on certain platforms. Overall, despite minor flaws, the game delivers a visually striking horror experience that deepens player engagement and effectively amplifies the dread.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

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 7: biohazard have garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, with many praising the game's ability to create a haunting atmosphere through its detailed environments and effective use of lighting. Critics like God is a Geek and Attack of the Fanboy highlight the game’s stunning visuals, noting the meticulous design of the Baker residence and the impressive character models that contribute to the overall horror experience. The RE Engine is frequently credited for delivering high-quality graphics, with GameStar and Generación Xbox acknowledging the game's ability to maintain a solid frame rate and visual fidelity across various platforms. Moreover, the first-person perspective has been noted for enhancing immersion, allowing players to feel a deeper connection to the eerie environments, as mentioned by Game Informer and Game Revolution. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. Hardcore Gamer described the graphics as "dismal at times," particularly in cutscenes, while GameStar criticized the game for having "blurry textures and occasional graphical glitches." Many reviews, including those from Easy Allies and GameSpot, mentioned that the visual quality varies by platform, with the PC version generally offering the best experience, while the PS4 and Xbox One versions suffer from issues like washed-out colors and less defined textures. Critics also noted that while the game excels in dark environments, it struggles in brighter settings, as pointed out by PLAY! Zine. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Resident Evil 7: biohazard delivers a compelling visual experience that significantly enhances the horror elements of the game, despite some technical flaws. The majority of reviewers, including those from Vandal and Polygon, agree that the game successfully creates a sense of dread through its impressive art direction and atmospheric design. While there are criticisms regarding texture quality and graphical inconsistencies, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game’s visuals are a strong asset, contributing to an immersive and terrifying experience that resonates well with players. The combination of detailed environments, effective lighting, and a strong sense of atmosphere has solidified Resident Evil 7 as a visually striking entry in the franchise.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Resident Evil 7: biohazard's sound design and music are hailed as key elements that amplify its immersive horror experience. Critics praise the chilling ambient sounds and effective audio cues that heighten tension and dread, while the minimalistic soundtrack underscores critical moments. Despite some critiques on voice acting quality and misleading sound cues, the overall consensus is that the audio enhances the game’s terrifying atmosphere, solidifying its status as a top horror title.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

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 7: biohazard have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, highlighting the game's ability to create a deeply immersive horror experience. Many reviewers, such as Digital Spy and Forbes, praised the exceptional audio design, noting how ambient sounds like creaking floorboards and unsettling noises contribute significantly to the game's tense atmosphere. Critics like GameCritics and Atomix emphasized the effectiveness of audio cues that alert players to lurking threats, enhancing the overall sense of dread. The minimalistic yet impactful soundtrack, as noted by Hardcore Gamer and GamesRadar+, serves to heighten tension during critical moments, while the haunting music in safe rooms provides a brief respite from the horror, as pointed out by IBTimes UK and Wccftech. Despite the overall praise, some critics did point out inconsistencies and areas for improvement in the audio experience. For instance, TheSixthAxis mentioned that while the environmental sound work is effective, the quality of voice acting can be hit or miss. Additionally, New Game Network and Metro GameCentral noted that the sound design sometimes misleads players regarding enemy proximity, which could detract from the intended tension. Hardcore Gamer also remarked that the overall sound design does not stand out as a strong point, suggesting that while effective, it may not reach the heights of other aspects of the game. In summary, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the sound design and music of Resident Evil 7: biohazard. Many reviewers, including PlayStation LifeStyle and CGMagazine, highlighted how the audio elements work in tandem with the visuals to create a chilling atmosphere that keeps players on edge. While there are some critiques regarding inconsistencies in voice acting and the occasional misleading sound cues, these do not overshadow the overall effectiveness of the sound design in enhancing the horror experience. The game successfully leverages its audio to immerse players in a world of tension and fear, solidifying its status as a standout title in the horror genre.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Resident Evil 7: biohazard's voice acting is praised for enhancing immersion and character depth, especially the Baker family's performances. Critics commend its emotional impact and effective localization, but some note inconsistencies, particularly with protagonist Ethan Winters, whose delivery falls flat for some. Overall, while mostly strong, the voice acting has notable flaws that prevent universal acclaim.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Resident Evil 7: biohazard has been widely praised by critics, highlighting its significant contribution to the game's immersive atmosphere and character development. Many reviewers, such as Atomix and GameSpew, noted that the performances, particularly those of the Baker family, are powerful and memorable, enhancing the emotional weight of the narrative. Critics like Shacknews and The Jimquisition emphasized the depth added to the characters through the voice acting, which successfully brings their unique personalities to life. Additionally, the quality of voice work has been recognized across various languages, with Eurogamer Italy and Generación Xbox commending the Italian and Spanish localizations, respectively, for their effectiveness in conveying character emotions. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics pointed out inconsistencies in the quality of voice acting, particularly regarding the protagonist Ethan Winters, whose performance was described as less impactful by LaPS4 and Hardcore Gamer. The latter also mentioned that the writing and delivery for certain characters fell short of expectations, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, IBTimes UK described some performances as reminiscent of cheesy B-movie styles, which may not resonate with all players. The varying quality of voice acting across different characters suggests a lack of uniformity that could affect immersion for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Resident Evil 7: biohazard is generally strong and contributes positively to the game's atmosphere and narrative, there are notable exceptions that prevent it from being universally acclaimed. The performances of the Baker family, in particular, received widespread recognition for their intensity and effectiveness, as highlighted by Game Revolution and Wccftech. Despite some criticisms regarding the protagonist's performance and occasional inconsistencies, the voice acting is largely seen as a key element that enhances the horror experience and emotional engagement of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Resident Evil 7: biohazard receives mostly positive reviews for its technical performance across platforms. It runs smoothly on PC, Xbox One, and PS4, with many praising its solid 60 FPS and VR stability. However, critics note some issues like frame rate inconsistencies on PC, minor graphical glitches on PS4, and lengthy loading times on Xbox. Overall, it’s a technically strong game that enhances gameplay, despite some minor setbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Resident Evil 7: biohazard has garnered generally positive feedback across various gaming platforms. On PC, critics like Multiplayer.it and PC Invasion highlight that the game runs well on mid-range hardware, with PC Invasion noting effective controls and smooth performance overall. The Xbox One version is praised by GameSpot and Generación Xbox for its smooth frame rates and minimal technical issues, with GameSpot emphasizing that the game runs smoothly across platforms. On PlayStation 4, the majority of critics, including Vandal, GRYOnline.pl, and Everyeye.it, report a solid performance, with many noting the game runs at 60 FPS and offers a stable experience, even in VR mode, as mentioned by Atomix and Destructoid. However, several critics have pointed out various technical issues across platforms. On PC, Multiplayer.it and Ragequit.gr mention frame rate stability problems, particularly between different graphics card brands, and some crashes and inventory management issues. For the PS4, while many reviews are positive, there are mentions of minor technical hiccups, such as texture pop-ins and graphical downgrades, as noted by GameOver.gr and Yahoo!. Critics like Easy Allies and Post Arcade raise concerns about the VR experience, citing motion sickness and control issues that can detract from gameplay. On Xbox One, while performance is generally stable, critics like GameGrin note that loading times can be lengthy, which may affect the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Resident Evil 7: biohazard delivers a technically solid experience across all platforms, with notable strengths in performance and stability. While there are some minor issues, especially in VR mode and on PC, the game is largely considered a success in its technical execution. Critics such as God is a Geek and Wccftech emphasize the game's smooth performance and effective use of the RE engine, reinforcing the notion that despite some drawbacks, Resident Evil 7 maintains a high standard of technical quality that enhances the overall gameplay experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Resident Evil 7: biohazard offers solid replay value with its unlockables, narrative depth, and challenging difficulty modes, enticing players to explore multiple playthroughs. However, critiques about its short length and lack of modes like Mercenaries, along with weak puzzles, highlight limitations that could dampen long-term engagement. While horror fans will find it enjoyable, those seeking deeper replay incentives or multiplayer options might feel underwhelmed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Resident Evil 7: biohazard highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its appeal for players. Many critics, such as Destructoid and USgamer, note that the game encourages multiple playthroughs through various unlockables, collectibles, and different difficulty modes, including the challenging 'Madhouse' mode. Critics like Everyeye.it and GamesRadar+ emphasize the narrative depth and multiple endings that provide incentives for players to revisit the game, allowing them to uncover new details and experience the story from different perspectives. Furthermore, the engaging gameplay and resource management challenges mentioned by PlayStation LifeStyle and Gameblog.fr enhance the overall replayability, making it worthwhile for fans of the horror genre. Despite these positives, several reviewers express concerns regarding the game's replay value. Critics like Metro GameCentral and EGM point out the game's relatively short length, which can diminish the incentive to replay once the story is known. The absence of additional modes, such as the Mercenaries mode found in earlier titles, is noted by Metro GameCentral as a limitation. Additionally, Impulsegamer critiques the weak puzzles, which may detract from the overall replay experience. Critics like Game Revolution and The Jimquisition also mention that while there are unlockables and higher difficulties, the lack of multiplayer options and extensive replay incentives may leave some players wanting more. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Resident Evil 7: biohazard offers a compelling experience with sufficient replay value through its collectibles, difficulty modes, and narrative depth, its short length and limited additional content may hinder long-term engagement. Reviewers like Vgames and Game Over Online highlight that the game provides enjoyable replay opportunities but lacks the depth of replay incentives found in earlier entries of the series. Ultimately, the game is seen as a solid title that can be revisited, particularly for those who appreciate its horror elements and story, yet it may not satisfy those seeking extensive replayability or multiplayer experiences.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its successful return to the franchise's survival horror roots. Reviewers such as The Jimquisition and Wccftech highlight the game’s ability to blend traditional horror elements with modern gameplay mechanics, creating a thrilling and immersive experience. Critics like Digital Spy and Hobby Consolas commend the game for its polished production values, engaging atmosphere, and genuinely terrifying moments, marking it as a significant step forward for the series. The incorporation of VR technology is also noted by Game Informer as a unique feature that enhances the overall experience, making it a must-play for horror fans. However, there are notable criticisms that temper the overall enthusiasm. Some reviewers, including Quarter to Three and Riot Pixels, express disappointment, stating that the game fails to innovate sufficiently and does not live up to its inspirations. Others, like Washington Post and Digitally Downloaded, mention issues with pacing and the game’s identity, suggesting that while it starts strong, it loses some of its horror intensity in the latter stages. The mixed opinions on puzzle design and combat mechanics also indicate that while the game excels in atmosphere, it may not fully deliver on gameplay consistency. In summary, despite a few dissenting voices, the consensus among critics is largely favorable, viewing Resident Evil 7: Biohazard as a successful revitalization of the franchise. Critics such as GameSpot and PCGamesN describe it as a classic that effectively merges old and new elements, making it a standout title in the horror genre. The game is recognized not only for its return to form but also for setting a new standard for survival horror, as reflected in the positive remarks from UploadVR and TrueGaming. Overall, Resident Evil 7 is celebrated for its ability to deliver a memorable and immersive horror experience, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard earns mostly positive reviews for its triumphant return to survival horror, blending classic elements with modern gameplay and impressive VR features. Critics praise its polished production and terrifying atmosphere, marking it as a standout in the genre. However, some note a lack of innovation and pacing issues, leading to mixed feelings on gameplay mechanics. Overall, it’s seen as a revitalization of the series that sets a new standard for horror gaming, appealing to both veterans and newcomers.

MONSTER

Reviews

232 reviews found

100

We Got This Covered

PlayStation 4

Jan 24, 2017

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

Resident Evil 7 is a classic reinvention of the revered franchise, offering a triumphant return to form for the masters of horror. Despite some flaws in the story, the game excels in gameplay, graphics, sound design, and technical performance, providing a highly immersive and entertaining experience.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

Feb 6, 2017

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

The reviewer highly recommends Resident Evil 7, stating that it is a fantastic game that could stand on its own even without being a Resident Evil game. The reviewer also mentions that it could be a Game of the Year candidate.

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100

DarkStation

PlayStation 4

Jan 30, 2017

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

Resident Evil VII is praised for breathing new life into the series and working as a re-imagining of the original game. It is seen as a great pivot from the formula and a perfect jump-in point for newcomers. The reviewer believes it successfully kickstarts an exciting new chapter in the franchise.

100

TheXboxHub

Xbox One

Feb 10, 2017

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

Resident Evil 7 brings back the horror to the series and is one of the best horror titles of the year.

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100

Guardian

PlayStation 4

Jan 23, 2017

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

The game is described as a masterclass, breezily new yet quintessentially in character with its illustrious forbearers. It is praised for successfully reinventing the series while maintaining its essence.

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100

GameSpew

PlayStation 4

Jan 30, 2017

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

Remarkable accomplishment and triumphant return of the franchise, masterfully executed on all fronts, leaving a lasting impression and showcasing the capabilities of horror games.

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100

The Daily Dot

PlayStation 4

Jan 23, 2017

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

The game is highly praised for its fear-inducing atmosphere, fair difficulty, and immersive first-person perspective.

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100

Windows Central

Xbox One

Jan 23, 2017

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

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is hailed as a triumphant return to form for the franchise, successfully reviving its survival horror roots and offering a must-buy experience for fans.

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100

Destructoid

PlayStation 4

Jan 23, 2017

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

Resident Evil 7 exceeds expectations, blending horror with action and intuitive controls. It is considered an instant classic that revitalizes the series and leaves players eager for future installments.

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100

God is a Geek

PlayStation 4

Jan 23, 2017

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

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is described as the best horror game in years, offering stunning presentation, an intriguing story, terrifying atmosphere, satisfying combat, and a mix of familiar and fresh elements. Despite some minor issues like long load times and iffy lip-syncing, the game excels in delivering a top-tier horror experience.

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