Is Resident Evil 2 Remake Harder Than the Original? A Deep Dive into the Survival Horror Classic

The short answer is: it depends on what you mean by “harder.” The original Resident Evil 2 presented a unique challenge rooted in its tank controls and limited save system. The RE2 Remake streamlines movement and offers more forgiving save options. However, the Remake introduces new enemy behaviors, puzzles, and a general increase in the intensity of the encounters, which can make it feel more difficult in different ways. The difficulty is more nuanced, requiring different skillsets and approaches. The RE2 Remake can be considered to be a challenging experience overall.

A Tale of Two Terrors: Comparing the Core Mechanics

The core difference in difficulty stems from the fundamental shift in gameplay mechanics. Let’s break down the key areas:

• Control Scheme: The original RE2 utilized the infamous tank controls, where movement was relative to the character’s orientation. This could be incredibly frustrating when navigating tight corridors while being chased by zombies. The RE2 Remake employs modern over-the-shoulder controls, allowing for much more fluid and responsive movement. This alone makes navigating and escaping enemies significantly easier.
• Saving: The original RE2 heavily restricted saving to Ink Ribbons found sparsely throughout the game. This created a constant sense of dread, as you had to carefully consider when and where to save, knowing that a wrong decision could cost you significant progress. The RE2 Remake offers auto-saving and a more generous distribution of manual save points, lessening the tension associated with potential failure. This means you don’t have to replay huge chunks of the game after an unexpected death, making it less punishing overall.
• Enemy AI and Design: While the original RE2 zombies were slow and predictable, the RE2 Remake zombies are significantly more aggressive, durable, and exhibit more realistic reactions to damage. They can shamble, lunge, and even break through doors, requiring players to be more strategic with their ammo and positioning. The Remake’s Lickers and Mr. X are also far more terrifying and relentless than their PS1 counterparts. They are harder to evade and deal significantly more damage.
• Puzzle Design: The RE2 Remake features revamped puzzles that are often more complex and require more critical thinking than the puzzles in the original game. Some solutions are entirely new, even if you know the original game by heart. This forces players to engage with the environment in a different way and adds a layer of challenge for returning fans.
• Ammo Management: Resource management is a staple of survival horror. While both games require careful conservation of ammo and healing items, the RE2 Remake presents a slightly steeper challenge. Enemies tend to take more bullets to put down, and the overall abundance of resources feels more balanced, demanding more strategic use of weapons and careful aim.
• Atmosphere and Tension: The RE2 Remake benefits from modern graphics and sound design, creating a far more immersive and terrifying atmosphere. The game’s claustrophobic environments, coupled with realistic gore and gruesome enemy designs, contribute to a heightened sense of dread and vulnerability. This can make the Remake feel psychologically “harder” for some players, even if the mechanics are technically more forgiving.

Hardcore Mode: The True Test

Both games feature difficulty settings, but the Hardcore mode in the RE2 Remake is a true test of skill and resource management. It removes auto-saves, further limits ammo and health item availability, and significantly increases enemy damage. This mode replicates the feeling of scarcity and tension that defined the original game, while also leveraging the Remake’s more challenging enemy AI and puzzle design.

The Verdict

The original Resident Evil 2 is harder in terms of mechanical friction due to its cumbersome controls and unforgiving save system. However, the RE2 Remake presents a different kind of challenge through its improved enemy AI, more complex puzzles, and a more oppressive atmosphere. Whether one is harder than the other is subjective and depends on individual preferences and playstyles. Ultimately, both games offer a rewarding and challenging survival horror experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How difficult is Resident Evil 2 Remake compared to other Resident Evil games?

The RE2 Remake strikes a good balance between classic survival horror and modern game design. It’s generally considered more challenging than RE5 and RE6 but less punishing than some of the older titles with tank controls. RE7 and Village offer different kinds of horror experiences, making direct comparisons difficult.

2. Is Resident Evil 2 Remake harder than Resident Evil 3 Remake?

Generally, Resident Evil 3 Remake is often considered easier than Resident Evil 2 Remake. This is due to RE3 Remake’s more linear structure, more frequent autosaves, and a slightly more forgiving enemy design. Additionally, the inclusion of a shop to buy useful items further reduces the difficulty.

3. Which difficulty should I play Resident Evil 2 Remake on for my first playthrough?

For a first playthrough, Standard difficulty is generally recommended. It provides a balanced challenge, allowing you to experience the game’s core mechanics and story without being overly frustrated by resource scarcity or enemy difficulty. Assisted mode makes the game a breeze, while Hardcore is better suited for experienced players.

4. Is Leon’s or Claire’s campaign harder in Resident Evil 2 Remake?

Claire’s campaign is generally considered slightly more challenging than Leon’s. Claire faces tougher enemy types, especially later in the game, and must protect Sherry Birkin during certain sections, adding an extra layer of responsibility.

5. How important is ammo conservation in Resident Evil 2 Remake?

Ammo conservation is crucial for survival. Running out of ammo can quickly lead to a game over, especially on higher difficulties. Prioritize headshots, use melee attacks strategically, and learn when to run instead of fight.

6. What are the biggest differences between the original Resident Evil 2 and the Remake?

Key differences include the control scheme (tank controls vs. over-the-shoulder), graphics, enemy AI, puzzle design, and save system (Ink Ribbons vs. more frequent saves). The Remake also expands on the lore and introduces new areas and story elements.

7. Is Resident Evil 2 Remake scarier than the original?

The Remake is undoubtedly scarier due to its vastly improved graphics, sound design, and overall atmosphere. The realistic enemy designs and gruesome gore contribute to a heightened sense of dread and vulnerability.

8. Is it necessary to play the original Resident Evil 2 before playing the Remake?

No, it is not necessary. The Remake is designed to be accessible to both newcomers and veterans of the series. While knowing the original game might enhance your appreciation of the changes and additions, it is not required to enjoy the Remake.

9. Are the puzzles in Resident Evil 2 Remake different from the original?

Yes, many of the puzzles have been revamped and redesigned. Some solutions are entirely new, even if you remember the original game’s solutions.

10. How long does it take to beat Resident Evil 2 Remake?

A single playthrough of one character’s campaign can take anywhere from 8 to 12 hours on average. Completing both campaigns and unlocking all the game’s secrets can easily extend the playtime to 20+ hours.

11. Is Resident Evil 2 Remake a good starting point for the Resident Evil series?

Yes, it’s an excellent starting point. It offers a balanced challenge, a compelling story, and modern gameplay mechanics, making it accessible and enjoyable for newcomers to the survival horror genre.

12. What is the scariest part of Resident Evil 2 Remake?

Many players find the sections involving Mr. X to be the scariest, due to his relentless pursuit and imposing presence. Sherry’s sections in Claire’s campaign are also often cited as being particularly terrifying due to their vulnerability and limited resources.

13. Can I beat Resident Evil 2 Remake without using any healing items?

Yes, it is possible, but extremely difficult. This is a common challenge run undertaken by experienced players. It requires perfect execution, a deep understanding of enemy patterns, and strategic use of dodges and melee attacks.

14. Does Resident Evil 2 Remake have multiple endings?

Yes, there are multiple endings depending on which character you play as and whether you complete the 2nd Run scenario. Completing both Leon’s and Claire’s campaigns unlocks the true ending and provides a more complete picture of the story.

15. Is Resident Evil 2 Remake worth playing in 2024?

Absolutely! The RE2 Remake remains a masterpiece of the survival horror genre. Its stunning graphics, tense atmosphere, and engaging gameplay continue to impress, making it a must-play for fans of horror games and newcomers alike.