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Review of Resident Evil Survivor on PlayStation

by Hemal Harris Hemal Harris photo Aug 2000
Cover image of Resident Evil Survivor on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 3
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 30 Aug 2000
Genre: Light gun shooter
Developer: TOSE
Publisher: Capcom

Introduction

Ahoy! Welcome to the world of Resident Evil: Survivor, where the roads are dimly lit, the zombies are thick, and the ammo does not come easy unless you're willing to embrace your inner arcade enthusiast with a light gun (in some versions). Let's dive into a game that boldly goes where the Resident Evil series has gone before, but with a decidedly wobbly perspective. If you're ready to challenge your hand-eye coordination and possibly your sanity, grab your controller and let's embark on this zombie-laiden adventure!

Gameplay

Taking a fresh approach to the Resident Evil formula, Survivor shuffles the gameplay deck by swapping the classic third-person view for a first-person perspective. Players take on the role of a gun-toting protagonist stuck with the unfortunate name of Vincent Goldman, who, spoiler alert, has amnesia. This story hook is constructed around an *amnesiac protagonist*. Brilliant! Because when bad things happen, forgetting all about them clearly makes everything better. As if forgetting your identity isn't hard enough, our dear Vince has to navigate through Raccoon City, which is more chaotic than a Black Friday sale at a zombie-infested mall. The gameplay derives an intricate blend of first-person shooting and arcade-style mechanics, where players need to control a crosshair while navigating the environment. Turbo-charged fast reflexes might help you survive, and by the way, if you think shooting off-screen literally means you'll be unable to turn around at times because you're too busy trying to shoot everything you see, congratulations! You've nailed the mechanics! Your arsenal may feel a bit limited, consisting mainly of pistols such as the Glock 17 or CZ75. Sure, they have unlimited ammo, but don't get too excited-the enemies might as well be petits fours in a bakery compared to other Resident Evil games. Expect walkers, lickers, and even some new party crashers like Hypnos T-types as you're dodging bullets and keeping your wits about you. However, it's not all bad! The game offers branching paths, which is code for 'we didn't want to make a linear game.' It plays like a lousy buffet-there's something for everyone, but what you choose is really up to destiny. So choose wisely unless you want to end up like me: exiting the samosa line only to discover you've just eaten three-day-old sushi. On the bright side (there's always a bright side, right?), opponents will not simply stroll at you-oh no-the game ensures they will throw themselves at you. Expect a more stressful vibe as you weave and bob your way through the battlefield with little to no time for error. Naturally, you won't die; you'll just gracefully fade away (a.k.a. game-over). So, don't let your finger tremble when firing at that hungry zombie since you just might turn into its midnight snack! If you think you're a one-shot wonder, think again. Survivor's misfortunes grow tenfold with each bullet mismanaged, irrational decision made, and every dodge you try that leads to a sarcastic zombie finger-wag. Hold on to your sanity (and controller) because you'll need both! Be warned: Although the controls are arguably easy to grasp, mastering spontaneity and multitasking properly creates an ultra-complex maze of potential mess-ups. Should you, unfortunately, decide to get strapped down with the aim of experiencing the rough patches, don't be surprised to find yourself screaming expletives at the TV... And let's face it, it won't be just a zombie that scares you; it's the realization that you're about to flip the game off in frustration!

Graphics

Okay, let's chat about graphics-if we dare. Survivor employs graphics that could best be described as a 'masterclass in early 2000s PlayStation modeling.' When you think of PlayStation titles, you might envision vibrant, detailed worlds and jaw-dropping character animation. Turns out Resident Evil Survivor sticks to a more 'ambitious yet awkward' aesthetic. The environments can evoke some nostalgic fears but may also induce a collective cringe when it comes to rendering quality. You'll spend most of your time in environments that look like a 10-year-old's rendition of a haunted house competition-dimly lit rooms, interminable corridors, and cliché horror tropes abound! It does capture that run-down vibe intended; however, considering the age of the game, just expect that everything looks a bit janky and rough around the edges. It's almost like watching mom trying to fix that leaky sink: you know it's going to be a hot mess, but you sit there and pretend it's all going to work out fine. As for your poor old zombies? Let's just say they won't be winning any best actor awards but do their best to be terrifying; their poorly rendered grins and slow animations just kind of make you want to give them a hug-or run away screaming, I guess, depending on how you're feeling at the moment. Graphics can't save you from an existential crisis, but at least you'll be entertained for a while; that should count for something!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Resident Evil Survivor brings us on a wild and chaotic ride through the zombie-laden streets of a world that feels like a zombie itself. It showcases ambitious gameplay mechanics and interesting story twists but suffers from more criticism than most horror films on a Saturday night binge. If you're a die-hard fan of the Resident Evil series, you might enjoy the challenge it offers in a new light-a light that frequently flickers and may have burned out long ago. While the graphics may feel like a nostalgia trip best kept in the past, one can always count on the humor of stumbling through poorly executed challenges and moments where your aim is nothing short of tragic. Ease up on your expectations, grab some friends, and prepare to laugh (or scream) your way forward! This first-person endeavor may not put Resident Evil back on the map, but for those willing to tackle the surreal richness of zombie existence, Survivor isn't a total loss. Just understand that your sanity might take a backseat during the journey! For those intrigued, step right up to the chaotic horror roller-coaster where you might just want to remember your name-or forget it entirely! Score: 3/10.*"

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