Mastering S+ Rank: A Comprehensive Guide to Resident Evil 4 Remake Perfection

Achieving S+ rank in the Resident Evil 4 remake is the ultimate test of skill, strategy, and nerves. It’s not just about beating the game; it’s about mastering it. In essence, to snag that coveted S+ rank, you need to complete the game on Professional difficulty in a new game (not New Game Plus), with a limited number of saves, and within a strict time limit, without using any game-breaking special weapons for the Handcannon unlock. This guide will break down the process, offering tips, strategies, and answering your burning questions, transforming you from a survivor into a true Resident Evil legend.

Deciphering the S+ Rank Requirements

The S+ rank is only available on the Professional difficulty. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements:

• Difficulty: Professional (the most challenging difficulty).
• Game Mode: New Game (a fresh save file, not New Game Plus).
• Saves: Limited to 15 saves maximum throughout the entire playthrough.
• Time Limit: Varies slightly depending on the version of the game, but aim for under 5 hours and 30 minutes or even 5 hours for a safe buffer.
• Bonus Weapons: While debated, it’s best to avoid using bonus weapons like the infinite rocket launcher if you are trying to unlock the Handcannon bonus weapon.
• Unlockables: Accessories such as the Chicken Hat and Ashley’s Armor can be used.

Strategies for S+ Domination

• Plan Your Route: Meticulous planning is crucial. Know the locations of key items, enemy spawns, and optimal routes. Watching speedruns can be incredibly helpful.
• Master Combat: Perfect your parrying, dodging, and headshot accuracy. Ammunition conservation is paramount.
• Prioritize Upgrades: Focus on upgrading your preferred weapons for maximum efficiency. Damage and reload speed are generally the best investments.
• Efficient Inventory Management: Keep your inventory organized and only carry what you need. Sell unnecessary items to the Merchant for upgrades.
• Utilize the Merchant: The Merchant is your best friend. Purchase weapon upgrades, sell treasures, and buy essential items like healing.
• Optimal Weapon Choice: There’s no single “best” weapon, but a reliable pistol (like the Red9 or Blacktail), a powerful shotgun (like the Riot Gun or Striker), and a versatile rifle (like the Stingray) are generally recommended.
• Embrace the Knife: The knife is your silent partner. Use it for conserving ammo, finishing downed enemies, and parrying attacks.
• Save Wisely: With only 15 saves, plan them carefully. Key areas to save include before boss fights, after completing challenging sections, and whenever you feel like you’ve made significant progress. The number of saves allowed was changed and is now unlimited, as long as you don’t want to unlock the Handcannon bonus weapon.
• Learn Enemy Weaknesses: Exploit enemy weaknesses to conserve ammo and time. Flash grenades are effective against Plagas, while certain enemies are vulnerable to specific weapons.
• Skip Cutscenes: Save precious seconds by skipping all cutscenes.
• Embrace Cheese: The most efficient way to beat the game is to not fight unnecessary battles.

S+ Mindset: Patience, Persistence, and Precision

The S+ rank demands more than just skill; it requires a specific mindset. Be prepared to die, learn from your mistakes, and adapt your strategy. Don’t be afraid to restart sections if you feel like you’ve wasted too much time or resources. Patience, persistence, and precision are your greatest allies.

Overcoming Common S+ Challenges

• Boss Fights: Boss fights can be major time sinks. Study their attack patterns, identify their weaknesses, and practice your execution.
• Limited Resources: Ammunition and healing items are scarce on Professional difficulty. Conserve your resources and prioritize your targets.
• Nerve-Wracking Moments: The pressure of the time limit and limited saves can be intense. Stay calm, focused, and trust in your preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use bonus weapons for S+?

Yes, you can use bonus weapons for S+ with some caveats. If you’re aiming to unlock the Handcannon, avoid bonus weapons on a Professional run. Otherwise, weapons like the Chicago Typewriter are perfectly acceptable.

2. Can I use the infinite knife for S+ RE4 Remake?

Yes, using the infinite combat knife is perfectly acceptable for an S+ rank run. This can be a massive asset for conserving ammo and dealing with close-quarters combat. The knife can make parrying much easier.

3. Can you get S+ on standard?

No, S+ rank is exclusive to the Professional difficulty. Standard difficulty only offers ranks up to S.

4. Can you get S rank with infinite ammo?

You can’t get S+ Rank with infinite ammo. S Rank is determined by playtime, not the weapons used.

5. Can I use the Handcannon to get S+?

Yes, you can use the Handcannon to get S+ after you’ve unlocked it by completing Professional without bonus weapons on a fresh save. Think of the Handcannon as a bonus weapon for future runs.

6. How do you get an S rank in Resident Evil?

Except for the S+ rank on Professional, all other difficulties’ ranks are determined by playtime. Beating the game under a certain time limit (around 4 hours for many difficulties) will typically grant you an S rank.

7. Can you get an S rank on New Game Plus RE4 Remake?

Yes, you can get an S rank on New Game Plus, but not S+. S+ requires a fresh save file.

8. What is the reward of S rank in Resident Evil?

The reward for S rank varies depending on the game. In some Resident Evil titles, it unlocks infinite ammo weapons or other bonuses. In the Resident Evil 4 Remake, the biggest reward is S+ rank.

9. Can I use primal knife for S+?

Yes, you can use the Primal Knife for S+. Its unbreakable nature makes it a valuable tool for parrying and conserving ammo.

10. How do you get S+ in separate ways?

In the Separate Ways DLC, the requirements for S+ are similar: complete the game on Professional difficulty on a new save within a time limit (typically around 2.5 hours) with limited saves.

11. What does the chicken hat do in Resident Evil 4 Remake?

The Chicken Hat is an accessory that reduces the damage you take, making it a valuable asset for surviving the challenges of Professional difficulty. It’s great for those who struggle with taking too much damage!

12. What do you get for beating RE4 Remake on professional?

Completing the Main Story on Professional Mode grants you access to the Chicago Sweeper and the Cat Ears.

13. Does the Handcannon have infinite ammo?

Yes, the Handcannon can be upgraded to have infinite ammo after you’ve purchased an exclusive upgrade.

14. Is Primal Knife better than fighting knife RE4 Remake?

The fully upgraded Fighting Knife initially has better stats, but the Primal Knife’s unbreakable nature is a massive advantage in the long run, particularly for an S+ run.

15. Can you use accessories for S+?

Yes, you can use accessories like the Chicken Hat, Ashley’s Armor, and other unlockable accessories that provide bonuses to aid you in your S+ run.

Mastering the S+ rank in the Resident Evil 4 remake is a challenging but rewarding experience. By understanding the requirements, implementing effective strategies, and maintaining a focused mindset, you can achieve this coveted goal and solidify your status as a true Resident Evil master. Be sure to continue learning and improving your gaming skills with resources such as the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.