Should You Shoot Nemesis? A Resident Evil 3 Remake Guide
The Definitive Answer: Yes, You Should Shoot Nemesis!
The question isn’t really if you should shoot Nemesis, but rather, when and how. In Resident Evil 3 Remake, Nemesis is not just a terrifying, hulking pursuer; he’s a walking, screaming loot piñata. While you can’t kill Nemesis outright, you absolutely should make every effort to down him temporarily. The rewards far outweigh the costs. Each time you defeat Nemesis in a timed encounter, he will drop Umbrella Supply Boxes that contain valuable weapon upgrades and ammunition, essential for surviving the game. These are not just any upgrades; they significantly improve your firepower and make the game easier, particularly on harder difficulties. So, the short answer is: yes, absolutely shoot Nemesis whenever possible. Think of him as a challenging, rewarding mini-boss scattered throughout the game.
Why Taking on Nemesis is Crucial
The Alluring Loot
The primary reason to fight Nemesis is for the weapon enhancements and ammunition. These boosts are game-changers, particularly the magazine upgrades for your pistol and shotgun, which can dramatically increase your sustained fire rate. Every shot counts, especially on higher difficulties, and the additional firepower is worth the resources spent to down him. Moreover, having extra ammo at your disposal makes all the difference against Nemesis and other enemies you will face.
Skill Development
Fighting Nemesis early and often forces you to refine your combat skills. You will learn to dodge attacks, manage your ammunition, and leverage your environment. These skills become increasingly important as the game progresses and facing down the Nemesis helps hone your combat abilities for all other situations. The challenge he presents can help you evolve into a more skilled, resourceful player.
Not Just a Chase Sequence
Thinking of Nemesis only as a terrifying chase sequence misses half the picture. By actively engaging him, you are not just running away but taking control of the situation. You’re dictating the terms of the engagement and getting rewarded for your bravery. This changes your perspective from a victim to a participant in a challenging scenario.
Resource Efficiency
While it might seem like a waste of ammo to confront Nemesis, the truth is, the increased firepower and ammunition he drops will pay dividends in the long run. Instead of being afraid of wasting resources, consider it an investment in your survival. In effect, you are earning ammo and upgrades by downing him and your game experience will be better because of it.
Key Encounters with Nemesis and Rewards
- First Encounter: During the early stages, defeating Nemesis nets you the Extended G19 Magazine.
- Power Substation: After restoring power but before reaching the Subway Office, downing Nemesis results in a Supply Case containing another magazine upgrade for the G19, allowing a total of 33 rounds.
- Later Encounters: In various other scripted encounters throughout the game, Nemesis will drop supply cases with weapon upgrades and ammo for various weapons, making him a consistently valuable source of rewards.
How to Fight Nemesis
Explosives are Your Friend
Nemesis is particularly vulnerable to explosives. Grenades and grenade launcher rounds are incredibly effective at quickly staggering him. Even a well-placed mine grenade can halt his jumps. Make sure you stock up on grenades when possible, and consider using explosive barrels and other environmental hazards to your advantage.
Ammunition Management
Don’t waste your strongest ammo at the very start of the fight. Use your weaker weapons or environmental traps first, and then switch to more powerful options when he’s closer. This means you should start with your pistol, then your shotgun, and finally your grenades/grenade launcher. This way, you make the most out of all your resources.
Focus on Weak Points
Even though Nemesis doesn’t have a clear “headshot” mechanic, attacking his exposed body parts can maximize damage. When he is downed, a well placed shot from your most powerful weapon is the quickest way to down him again. Be sure to utilize quick turns and dodges to keep him in front of you.
Be Mobile and Observant
Nemesis is a relentless pursuer, so never stand still for long. Use the environment to your advantage by using it as cover, create distance, and prepare for his attacks. Understanding the layout of the combat areas and Nemesis’ attack patterns can help you anticipate his moves and avoid damage.
Dodge When Necessary
Although damage is how you defeat him, knowing when to dodge is just as important. When Nemesis starts to wind up, be prepared to dodge to mitigate damage. If you are accurate with your dodge, you will create an opportunity to put some damage in before he resumes his attacks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can Nemesis be killed permanently?
No, Nemesis cannot be killed permanently in Resident Evil 3 Remake. You can only temporarily down him to acquire valuable loot.
2. What are the rewards for defeating Nemesis?
Defeating Nemesis in specific encounters will yield Umbrella Supply Boxes, which can contain weapon upgrades (like magazine expansions for your pistol and shotgun) and ammunition.
3. Is it better to run away from Nemesis or fight him?
While running away can save you resources in the short term, fighting Nemesis and claiming the rewards are almost always the more beneficial long-term strategy.
4. Does Nemesis chase you throughout the entire game?
No, Nemesis is generally triggered by scripted encounters. If you flee an “optional” encounter, he will typically chase you through a few rooms, then disappear until the next scripted event.
5. How do I take down Nemesis?
Use explosives like grenades and grenade launcher rounds, attack his vulnerable parts, and combine ranged attacks with dodges. Managing ammunition wisely is essential.
6. Is Nemesis more powerful than other Tyrants?
Yes, Nemesis is generally considered stronger than other Tyrants due to his enhanced speed, unique abilities (like the tentacle attack), and regenerative capabilities.
7. Can you defeat Nemesis with a knife?
Yes, it is possible to defeat Nemesis with a knife, though it is a difficult undertaking and requires around 90 slashes or more. This is primarily for skilled players seeking an extreme challenge.
8. What happens when Nemesis is stunned?
When Nemesis is stunned, he will temporarily cease his attack. It creates a short window of opportunity for you to attack him with more power.
9. Does shooting Nemesis do anything?
Yes, each shot, with enough damage, will cause Nemesis to stagger, or even go down. This will also prompt a supply box drop.
10. Can I down Nemesis when he has the flamethrower?
Yes, damaging his flamethrower tank enough can cause it to burst, staggering him and allowing you to follow up with your most powerful shots.
11. How do I stop Nemesis when he’s jumping between buildings?
The easiest way to stop Nemesis jumping between buildings is to fire a mine grenade at the wall of the building that Nemesis will land on.
12. Is Nemesis evil or good in Resident Evil?
Nemesis is undeniably a villain in the Resident Evil series. As a bioweapon, his sole purpose is to hunt and kill.
13. What makes Nemesis so scary?
Nemesis’s combination of frightening appearance, relentless pursuit, and powerful attacks makes him a formidable foe, embodying a terrifying threat.
14. How long does it take to beat Resident Evil 3 Remake?
When focusing on the main objectives, the game is about 7 hours long. If you’re a completionist, you’re likely to spend around 13 hours to achieve 100% completion.
15. How important are Nemesis’ rewards in Resident Evil 3 Remake?
The rewards earned from taking down Nemesis are absolutely crucial and significantly boost your firepower. You’ll have an easier time taking down Nemesis each time and an easier time against other enemies in general, making his supply boxes worth the effort.