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Resident Evil Village

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

2021

GenresVirtual Reality, Adventure, Action, Shooter, Drama, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableMay 7, 2021

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

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

Resident Evil Village is a first person survival horror and the sequel to Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. The game maintains elements from previous Resident Evil games with players having to scavenge environments for items and manage their resources. However, it adds more action-oriented gameplay, with higher enemy counts and a greater emphasis on combat.

Elsewhere

8.7

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

TLDR: Resident Evil Village's story is a mixed bag—praised for its engaging narrative and intriguing characters, but criticized for lacking depth and originality. While some reviewers highlight its compelling twists and balance of horror and action, others find fault in character development and plot coherence. It’s a bold evolution for the franchise but leaves fans divided on its execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Resident Evil Village has garnered a mix of praise, particularly for its engaging narrative and intriguing characters. Critics like TrueGaming and IGN highlight the continuation of Ethan Winters' story as compelling, with well-developed villains and surprising twists that keep players invested. Everyeye.it and GameGrin commend the game for its structured narrative and the seamless integration of horror elements, suggesting that it expands the franchise's lore while maintaining a balance between action and horror. Malditos Nerds and GamePro Germany also note the impactful moments throughout the game, indicating that the story resonates well with fans of the series. However, the narrative has faced significant criticism for its perceived shortcomings. Many reviewers, including PC Games and Quarter to Three, argue that the story lacks depth and originality, with some characters feeling underdeveloped, particularly Ethan Winters. Critics like Vandal and Siliconera express disappointment in the plot's reliance on nonsensical elements, requiring a suspension of disbelief that detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Attack of the Fanboy and GameSpot, point out that while the narrative is engaging, it fails to connect meaningfully with the broader Resident Evil lore, leaving some fans wanting more. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Resident Evil Village presents a mixed bag of storytelling elements. While many appreciate the engaging premise and character dynamics, others find fault in the execution, particularly regarding character development and plot coherence. Critics such as GamingBolt and Push Square recognize the game's ability to entertain and provide memorable moments, but the narrative's inconsistencies and reliance on familiar tropes leave a divide in opinions. Ultimately, Resident Evil Village is seen as a bold attempt to evolve the franchise, yet it struggles to fully satisfy all fans of the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Resident Evil Village impresses with its engaging combat and blend of action and horror, praised for exploration and weapon variety. However, critics highlight issues like linearity, sluggish character movement, and unsatisfactory gunplay, leading to a mixed reception. While fans of action may enjoy it, those seeking classic survival horror elements might feel disappointed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Resident Evil Village has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its engaging combat mechanics and the blend of exploration and puzzle-solving elements. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and Gamer Escape, highlight the effective combination of action and horror, noting that the game retains the first-person perspective established in Resident Evil 7 while incorporating elements from Resident Evil 4. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Hey Poor Player commend the weighty gunplay and the variety of weapons available, which contribute to a satisfying combat experience. The exploration aspects are also well-received, with Eurogamer Italy and Gaming Nexus pointing out the open-map design that encourages players to revisit areas for upgrades and secrets, adding depth to the gameplay. However, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks in the gameplay experience. Quarter to Three and Siliconera express concerns about the linearity and repetitiveness of the mechanics, suggesting a lack of innovation that detracts from the overall experience. Comicbook.com and Pure Xbox note that Ethan's sluggish movements and janky boss battles can undermine the action-oriented elements. Additionally, many reviews, including those from PC Games and Game Revolution, criticize the gunplay for feeling unsatisfactory and lacking the tension typical of survival horror games. Critics like Cultured Vultures and TrueGaming emphasize that the balance between horror and action is not well maintained, leading to a gameplay experience that sometimes feels more like a shooter than a traditional Resident Evil title. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Resident Evil Village offers a mixed bag of gameplay experiences, successfully blending action and horror while also drawing from the franchise's history. While many reviewers appreciate the engaging combat and exploration elements, there is a shared sentiment regarding the game's pacing issues and lack of innovation. Critics like GameMAG and Windows Central encapsulate this duality, acknowledging the satisfying moments while also highlighting the areas where the game falls short. As a result, Resident Evil Village stands as a title that may appeal to fans of action-oriented gameplay but may leave those seeking a more traditional survival horror experience wanting more.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Resident Evil Village dazzles with stunning visuals and a haunting atmosphere, earning widespread praise for its gothic design and advanced ray tracing. Critics laud its immersive environments, though some note issues with realism and cohesion. Despite minor shortcomings, the game is hailed as a visual triumph, marking a significant advancement in the franchise's artistic execution.

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 overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Resident Evil Village is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game's stunning visuals and atmospheric environments. Reviewers such as Gamer.nl and Attack of the Fanboy highlight the impressive detail in character models and the immersive nature of the environments, particularly noting the gothic aesthetic and the use of ray tracing technology that enhances the visual experience. Critics like But Why Tho? and GameSpot commend the game's ability to create a captivating atmosphere through its varied locations, from the opulent castle to the eerie village, contributing to a rich and engaging horror experience. The use of advanced graphics technology, as noted by Generación Xbox, further solidifies the game's position as a visual showcase for next-gen consoles. Despite the overwhelming praise, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. For instance, Quarter to Three notes that while the game looks good overall, the environments can feel small and contrived, lacking a sense of realism and interactivity. VideoGamer also raises concerns about the cohesion of the visual design, suggesting that while there are striking environments, they may not come together under a unified artistic vision. Additionally, Malditos Nerds mentions that character models could be improved, and Gamer.nl points out that some details may be lost in darker environments due to lighting issues. These critiques suggest that while the game excels in many areas, there are aspects that could benefit from further refinement. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Resident Evil Village delivers a visually impressive experience that effectively captures the essence of its horror themes. The majority of reviewers, including PlayStation LifeStyle and WellPlayed, celebrate the game's beautiful graphics and immersive atmosphere, indicating a strong appreciation for the overall visual presentation. While some criticisms regarding environmental realism and cohesion exist, they do not overshadow the general acclaim for the game's artistic achievements. Overall, Resident Evil Village is viewed as a significant step forward in graphics and visual design within the franchise, showcasing the capabilities of modern gaming technology.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Resident Evil Village's sound design and music are critically acclaimed for creating an immersive, tense atmosphere, with standout 3D audio that heightens the horror experience. While voice acting and soundtrack memorability receive minor critiques, the overall audio experience is celebrated as a triumph, enhancing the game's gothic horror and solidifying its place in the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

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 Village have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who consistently highlight the game's ability to create an immersive and tense atmosphere. Many reviewers, including those from GameSpot and MGG, praise the effective use of ambient sounds and music to enhance the horror experience, noting that the sound design contributes significantly to the overall ambiance. The incorporation of 3D audio, as mentioned by Hey Poor Player and Vandal, adds another layer of immersion, allowing players to discern subtle audio cues like Lady Dimitrescu's high heels and the growls of lurking enemies. Critics also commend the voice acting, with TheSixthAxis and Video Chums emphasizing the strong performances that add depth to the characters and contribute to the gothic horror feel of the game. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out areas for improvement. Xbox Achievements noted that while the soundtrack provides chills, it doesn't always align with the horror elements, and the voice work can be inconsistent. Similarly, PC Gamer mentioned that the English voice acting could come off as "hammy," which might detract from the overall experience for some players. Additionally, Hobby Consolas and others noted the absence of a memorable main theme, suggesting that while the sound design excels in creating atmosphere, the music could benefit from more standout pieces. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Resident Evil Village features exceptional sound design and music that significantly enhance the horror experience. The majority of reviewers agree that the audio elements are well-crafted, effectively building tension and immersion throughout the game. Critics like IGN Japan and GameGrin encapsulate this sentiment, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail in sound design that elevates the gameplay. While there are minor critiques regarding voice acting and the soundtrack's memorability, the overwhelming sentiment is that the audio experience in Resident Evil Village is a triumph, contributing to 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 Village's voice acting receives high praise for enhancing character immersion and emotional depth, particularly from standout actors like Todd Soley and Mary Elizabeth McGlynn. Critics laud the performances of antagonists like Lady Dimitrescu, but Ethan Winters’ dialogue is criticized as awkward and inconsistent, undermining the overall experience. While the voice acting adds layers to the narrative, it also reveals weaknesses, leading to a mixed yet generally favorable reception among reviewers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting 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 voice acting.

The voice acting in Resident Evil Village has garnered a number of positive remarks from critics, highlighting its contribution to character immersion and emotional depth. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and GameCritics praised the performances of the cast, particularly noting Todd Soley, Katie O'Hagan, and Mary Elizabeth McGlynn for their compelling portrayals. Critics such as IGN Italia and KeenGamer emphasized how the voice acting enhances the narrative and humanizes characters like Lady Dimitrescu and the Four Lords, adding layers to the overall experience. Many reviewers, including Hobby Consolas and Meristation, agreed that the voice acting is well-executed and adds to the immersive quality of the game, making it a standout feature. On the other hand, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly concerning the protagonist, Ethan Winters. Critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and VideoGamer described his dialogue as awkward and bland, detracting from the overall immersion and emotional impact of the game. The consistency of voice performances has also been called into question, with some reviewers, such as Gfinity and Critical Hit, noting that Ethan's portrayal can feel amateurish or inconsistent compared to the stronger performances of supporting characters. Additionally, the prevalence of American accents among characters in a European setting has been criticized by DualShockers and Windows Central, as it breaks the immersion and authenticity of the game's atmosphere. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception for the voice acting in Resident Evil Village. While many praised the quality and emotional resonance of the performances, particularly from the antagonists, there remains a significant critique of the protagonist's dialogue and the inconsistency in voice work. Critics like Atomix and Eurogamer Italy pointed out that while the voice acting contributes to character recognition and immersion, it is not without its flaws, especially in terms of dialogue quality. Ultimately, the voice acting serves as a double-edged sword; it enhances the game's strengths while simultaneously exposing some of its weaknesses, leading to a varied yet generally positive reception.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Resident Evil Village impresses with solid performance across platforms, especially on PS5, which maintains 60 FPS and 4K with ray tracing. However, it faces minor issues: PC gamers may encounter performance dips during intense scenes, PS5 users report frame rate drops with ray tracing on, and Xbox Series X experiences occasional crashes. Overall, it's a technical achievement but awaits patches for optimal stability.

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 Village has garnered generally positive feedback across various platforms. On PC, critics like PCMag and GameGrin noted that the game runs well on recommended hardware, maintaining high frame rates and resolution, despite some minor issues. On the PlayStation 5, the game is praised for its smooth performance, with several reviewers such as IGN Japan and Vandal highlighting its ability to maintain 60 FPS and 4K resolution, even with ray tracing enabled. The Xbox Series X also received commendations for its rapid load times and smooth gameplay, with Jeuxvideo.com and TheXboxHub noting commendable overall stability and optimization. However, there are notable concerns regarding technical performance that critics have pointed out. On PC, Game Debate and Ragequit.gr mentioned performance issues during intense moments, suggesting that players might want to wait for a stability patch. On the PS5, while many reviews like those from Attack of the Fanboy and Easy Allies acknowledge good overall performance, they also highlight frame rate dips when ray tracing is enabled, indicating that this feature can impact the smoothness of gameplay. The Xbox Series X, while generally performing well, was noted by GamePro Germany to have experienced crashes, which detracts from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Resident Evil Village performs admirably across all platforms, with some minor technical issues that may affect gameplay. The PS5 stands out as the platform with the most positive reviews, with many critics such as PlayStation Universe and WellPlayed emphasizing its stable frame rates and quick load times. The PC version is seen as technically impressive but requires patches for optimal performance, while the Xbox Series X, despite some performance hiccups, is recognized for its smooth gameplay. The game is largely regarded as a technical achievement, with room for improvement in certain areas, particularly regarding ray tracing and performance stability during intense moments.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Resident Evil Village has solid replay value with its addictive Mercenaries mode, New Game Plus, and multiple difficulty levels. Critics praise the variety of content, but some worry the short campaign (under 10 hours) and linear Mercenaries mode may limit long-term interest. Overall, it's great for explorers and challenge-seekers but may not satisfy those looking for a deeper replay experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

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 Village highlight several positive aspects that enhance the game's longevity and encourage players to return. Many critics, such as PlayStation Universe and GamingBolt, emphasize the variety of content available post-completion, including the Mercenaries mode, which is described as highly addictive and a significant draw for replayability. Critics like Game Rant and JeuxActu also point out the inclusion of a New Game Plus mode, multiple difficulty levels, and various challenges that provide additional incentives for players to explore the game further. The presence of hidden collectibles and treasures, noted by Trusted Reviews and PC Gamer, adds to the allure for completionists seeking to uncover every aspect of the game. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the replay value that temper the overall excitement. Quarter to Three and Xbox Achievements express concerns about the linear nature of the Mercenaries mode and question whether players would be motivated to relive the game's off-kilter story. Critics such as PC Games and GameByte mention that the core campaign can be completed in under ten hours, which might make some players feel that the initial experience is too brief to warrant multiple playthroughs. Additionally, some critics, like Worth Playing and Gamers' Temple, highlight that while the Mercenaries mode adds replay value, it lacks the depth and variety found in previous entries, potentially diminishing its appeal for seasoned players. In conclusion, the overall consensus among critics is that Resident Evil Village offers a mixed bag of replay value. While many reviewers, including CGMagazine and Vgames, recognize the potential for extended gameplay through various modes and challenges, others express skepticism about the game's ability to maintain player interest beyond the initial playthrough. The inclusion of the Mercenaries mode and New Game Plus features are generally seen as strong points, yet concerns about the brevity of the main campaign and the linearity of certain modes leave some critics questioning the game's long-term replayability. Ultimately, Resident Evil Village seems to cater well to those who enjoy exploration and challenge but may fall short for players seeking a more robust replay experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Resident Evil Village is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, atmospheric design, and successful blend of horror and action elements. Reviewers like Push Square and GamingBolt highlight the game's compelling story and impressive graphics, noting that it sets a new standard for the series. Critics such as Malditos Nerds and IGN commend the game for effectively combining nostalgia with fresh ideas, making it appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers. The game's ability to deliver a thrilling experience while maintaining a gripping atmosphere has been recognized by several reviewers, including GameSpot, who describe it as a successful evolution of the franchise. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out notable shortcomings. For instance, Quarter to Three expresses disappointment, stating that the game fails to innovate and does not meet AAA expectations. Siliconera mentions pacing and narrative issues that detract from the experience upon further playthroughs, while PC Games notes that the focus on action over horror may alienate long-time fans. Additionally, Game Revolution and Game Rant highlight the game's struggle to cohesively blend its various elements, which prevents it from reaching the heights of its predecessors. Critics like TierraGamer also point out that the lack of difficulty may disappoint some players, indicating that while the game is enjoyable, it may not resonate with everyone. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards Resident Evil Village being a strong and entertaining entry in the franchise, despite some criticisms. The majority of reviews reflect a positive reception, with many acknowledging the game's capacity to captivate players through its engaging gameplay and atmospheric storytelling. Critics like TrueGaming and Hobby Consolas emphasize that it successfully combines the strengths of previous titles, while others, such as Digital Trends and PC Invasion, appreciate the variety and design of the game world. While there are valid concerns regarding pacing, narrative depth, and the balance between horror and action, the prevailing sentiment suggests that Resident Evil Village is a worthy addition to the series, celebrated for its ambition and entertainment value.

TL;DR

Resident Evil Village is largely praised for its captivating gameplay, atmospheric design, and successful blend of horror and action, setting a new benchmark for the series. Critics commend its engaging story and graphics, appealing to both veterans and newcomers. However, some point out issues with pacing, narrative depth, and an overemphasis on action that may alienate longtime fans. Despite these critiques, the consensus is that it’s a strong, entertaining entry in the franchise, showcasing ambition and entertainment value.

MONSTER

Reviews

168 reviews found

100

PlayStation 5

May 6, 2021

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

Resident Evil Village is a standout entry in the series, blending horror, action, and exploration into a memorable experience that leaves players wanting more.

100

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

May 5, 2021

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

The review states that Resident Evil Village is worth every cent, offering a great blend of horror and action, superb character development, and enjoyable plot and gameplay encounters.

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100

Player 2

PlayStation 4

May 5, 2021

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

Resident Evil Village is a polished and terrifying horror game that strikes a balance between fear and beauty, and is a true return to form for the series.

IGN Italia

PlayStation 5

May 5, 2021

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

Resident Evil Village is a masterful blend of horror, action, and exploration, successfully merging elements from its predecessors while introducing new features. It captivates players with its engaging story and immersive world.

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Vgames

PlayStation 5

May 5, 2021

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

The reviewer considers Resident Evil Village a major success, providing an excellent experience for players and addressing criticisms of the previous game.

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Game Debate

May 17, 2021

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

The review praises Resident Evil Village as a seriously fun entry in the franchise and one of the most memorable Resident Evil experiences to date. It suggests that it may be the best Resident Evil game of all time, depending on personal preference.

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App Trigger

PlayStation 5

May 10, 2021

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

The game is highly recommended, with a beautiful experience that is worth the time investment. It ranks among the top five Resident Evil games for the reviewer.

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Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 5

May 12, 2021

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

Resident Evil Village is an amalgamation of what made Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil 7 great games. It is a Game of the Year contender and one of the very best Resident Evil games in the franchise's 25-year run.

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Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 5

May 5, 2021

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

Resident Evil Village is praised as an exceptional game that builds on its predecessor while innovating in various aspects, despite some minor criticisms regarding its mechanics.

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Game Informer

PlayStation 5

May 5, 2021

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

Resident Evil Village is an impressive package that maintains a sense of dread.

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