Is Resident Evil 3 a Long Game? A Deep Dive into Playtime, Content, and Value
The short answer is: no, Resident Evil 3, particularly the 2020 remake, is not a long game compared to many other entries in the Resident Evil franchise or other games in the survival horror genre. A typical playthrough focuses on the main objectives often clocks in around 6 hours. This concise runtime has been a point of contention among fans, especially when compared to the original Resident Evil 3: Nemesis and the lengthier Resident Evil 2 and its remake. The game’s brevity stems from the streamlined narrative and some missing locations and encounters from the original. However, the perceived value of Resident Evil 3 extends beyond its raw playtime. It’s a tightly paced, action-packed experience that prioritizes intensity and replayability.
Unpacking the Length of Resident Evil 3
The Remake Factor: Content Cuts and Streamlined Experience
The Resident Evil 3 remake, while visually stunning and mechanically solid, is noticeably shorter than its predecessor, the Resident Evil 2 remake. This difference in length is largely due to several factors:
- Cut Locations: Key areas from the original game, such as the Clock Tower and Park, were significantly reduced or entirely absent in the remake.
- Altered Story Progression: Certain boss fights and enemy encounters were either removed or reimagined, leading to a more linear and faster-paced narrative.
- Carlos Oliveira’s Role: While Carlos’ role was expanded in the remake, it didn’t necessarily translate to a longer game. His segments, while engaging, were generally shorter than Jill’s.
Comparing Resident Evil 3 to Other Entries
To put the length of Resident Evil 3 into perspective, consider these comparisons:
- Resident Evil 6: The longest game in the series, boasting multiple campaigns and a total playtime exceeding 20 hours.
- Resident Evil 4* and *Resident Evil 4 Remake: Offer substantial campaigns lasting around 15 hours.
- Resident Evil 2* and *Resident Evil 2 Remake: Feature two distinct character campaigns, typically resulting in a combined playtime of approximately 10 hours.
In comparison, Resident Evil 3‘s 6-hour average playtime is significantly shorter. This doesn’t automatically make it a bad game, but it does impact its perceived value, especially at its initial launch price.
Replayability and Value
Despite its short length, Resident Evil 3 offers some degree of replayability:
- Multiple Difficulty Levels: Playing on higher difficulty settings can significantly increase the challenge and playtime.
- Unlockable Weapons and Items: Completing the game unlocks new weapons and items, encouraging subsequent playthroughs.
- Records and Challenges: Completing in-game records and challenges adds an extra layer of engagement for completionists.
However, for many players, these elements aren’t enough to compensate for the game’s relatively short main campaign. The lack of substantial bonus content or additional storylines further exacerbates this issue.
Is the Short Length a Deal Breaker?
The answer depends on your priorities as a gamer. If you value a lengthy, sprawling experience with extensive exploration and a deep narrative, Resident Evil 3 might disappoint. However, if you appreciate a tightly paced, action-focused game that respects your time and offers high replay value, you may find it enjoyable. The experience offered is fast-paced and intense, which is a departure from the original game’s horror elements. The Games Learning Society explores the intricacies of game design and how it influences player experience. For many, the shorter play time is preferable, as it doesn’t feel drawn out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Resident Evil 3’s Length
1. How long does it take to beat Resident Evil 3 Remake?
On average, it takes around 6 hours to complete the main story of Resident Evil 3 Remake. This time can vary depending on your skill level, chosen difficulty, and playstyle.
2. Is Resident Evil 3 shorter than Resident Evil 2?
Yes, Resident Evil 3 is significantly shorter than Resident Evil 2. Resident Evil 2‘s multiple campaigns contribute to a playtime of approximately 10 hours, while Resident Evil 3 averages around 6 hours.
3. Why is Resident Evil 3 Remake so short?
The Resident Evil 3 Remake is shorter due to cut content, including locations and enemy encounters from the original game, as well as a more streamlined narrative progression.
4. Does Resident Evil 3 have good replay value?
Yes, Resident Evil 3 has some replay value thanks to multiple difficulty levels, unlockable weapons and items, and in-game challenges. However, many players find these elements insufficient to compensate for the short main campaign.
5. Is Resident Evil 3 worth buying at full price?
Whether Resident Evil 3 is worth buying at full price is subjective. Considering the short length of the game, wait for a sale or discount to maximize your value, especially if you prioritize a longer playtime.
6. What are the main differences between the original Resident Evil 3 and the remake?
Key differences include significant content cuts in the remake, a more action-oriented focus, and alterations to the story progression and character fates.
7. Is Resident Evil 3 as scary as Resident Evil 2?
Many players find Resident Evil 2, particularly the remake, to be scarier than Resident Evil 3. Resident Evil 3 leans more towards action, while Resident Evil 2 emphasizes survival horror elements.
8. Should I play Resident Evil 2 before Resident Evil 3?
Yes, playing Resident Evil 2 before Resident Evil 3 is recommended. Although the stories run parallel to each other, playing RE2 will enrich your understanding of the overall narrative and world.
9. What is the hardest Resident Evil game?
Resident Evil – Code: Veronica is often considered one of the hardest Resident Evil games due to its challenging gameplay and limited resources.
10. What is the easiest Resident Evil game?
Several Resident Evil games are considered relatively easy, including Resident Evil 7 and Resident Evil 2 Remake, due to their balanced gameplay and limited enemy variety.
11. Is Resident Evil 3 single player only?
Resident Evil 3 primarily focuses on a single-player campaign. However, the remake initially included Resident Evil Resistance, an asymmetrical multiplayer mode. That is now a standalone title.
12. How many hours to 100% Resident Evil 3?
Achieving 100% completion in Resident Evil 3 can take around 20 to 21 hours, depending on your completionist tendencies and skill level.
13. Does difficulty affect playtime in Resident Evil 3?
Yes, playing on higher difficulty settings in Resident Evil 3 can increase your playtime as you’ll need to be more cautious and resourceful, leading to longer encounters and more strategic planning.
14. Is the Resident Evil 3 Remake a successful game?
Despite the controversy over its length, Resident Evil 3 Remake was commercially successful, selling millions of units and being considered a “hit” by Capcom.
15. Which Resident Evil game has the best story?
Opinions vary, but Resident Evil 4, Resident Evil 7, and Resident Evil Village are often cited as having some of the best stories in the series, each offering unique and engaging narratives.
In conclusion, while Resident Evil 3 may be shorter than many other entries in the franchise, its quality depends on individual preferences for game length and playstyle. It’s a fast-paced action game that can offer replay value. If you are interested in the design aspects of games and how players learn from them, consider exploring GamesLearningSociety.org.