Introduction

Ah, Resident Evil 5, where the sunshine is blinding and the African wildlife is about as friendly as a rabid raccoon. Join Chris Redfield, a man who looks like he bench presses boulders for breakfast, and Sheva Alomar, who apparently skipped her zoology classes, as they dive head-first into a bioterrorism hot mess. This game is like a summer blockbuster film, except with more 'Oh no, don't shoot that!' moments.

Gameplay

Here's the deal: it's a third-person shooter-so if you thought you were signing up for an intense, slow-paced survival horror, prepare to have your illusions crushed like a zombie under Chris's giant muscles. You'll trudge through the fictional Kijuju, doing what every modern hero does: upgrading your guns, collecting shiny things, and yelling at your AI partner because they just wasted your last first aid spray on a stubbed toe. Yes folks, trust your AI partner at your own peril. Two-player co-op was the shiny new thing here, and to say it's fun is an understatement. It's a delightful combination of 'I'll cover you' and 'why did you shoot that barrel?' So grab a buddy, load your guns, and if your partner forgets to heal you mid-battle, well, that's just part of the thrill! The game also introduces quick time events (QTEs) that will have you mashing buttons in sheer terror while simultaneously feeling like you're playing Dance Dance Revolution. If you have a preference for slow-paced, strategic gameplay, I hope you enjoy staring at the 'Game Over' screen a lot.

Graphics

Visually, let's just say it's still decent for a 2009 title rewrapped in 2019. The characters look like they just walked off a Hollywood set, hair perfectly coiffed, and as for the environments, picture a sun-drenched landscape filled with enemies who look like they've never stepped foot in a gym. Sunsets are pretty brilliant though-perfect for those moments where you think, 'Wow, this is a nice place to die.' Seriously Capcom, you could have hired a photographer for the brochure.

Conclusion

Resident Evil 5 is an interesting beast. It's like that summer blockbuster movie you don't quite want to admit was entertaining but still made you giggle with your friends about how absurd it was. There's plenty of action, great co-op gameplay, and moments where you'll definitely be yelling at the screen. However, it's not going to satisfy those who long for the atmospheric dread of previous entries. It stands as a solid entry in the franchise... just remember to keep a spare controller handy in case your partner is as useful as a cardboard cutout during a zombie siege.

See Latest Prices for Resident Evil 5 on Switch on Amazon

See Prices for Resident Evil 5 on Switch on Ebay