Why Resident Evil 7 is Good: A Deep Dive into Horror Excellence
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard isn’t just a good game; it’s a masterclass in survival horror and a pivotal turning point for the Resident Evil franchise. It’s good because it represents a bold return to the series’ terrifying roots, expertly blending claustrophobic environments, compelling villains, and a visceral first-person perspective that elevates the horror to new heights. Its success lies in its ability to create a truly frightening experience that feels both modern and nostalgic, a feat that resonated deeply with fans and critics alike. From its atmospheric locations to its resource-scarce gameplay, Resident Evil 7 delivers an unforgettable and genuinely scary adventure. This article will delve deeper into the various aspects that contribute to its brilliance, solidifying its place as a modern horror classic.
A Return to Horror Roots
Shifting Perspective, Heightened Immersion
One of the most significant changes in Resident Evil 7 was the shift to a first-person perspective. This wasn’t just a cosmetic change; it fundamentally altered how players experienced the horror. Suddenly, players were in the shoes of Ethan Winters, forced to face the horrors of the Baker estate head-on. This intimate viewpoint significantly increased the tension and made every encounter feel more personal and terrifying. The claustrophobic nature of the environments, coupled with the limited field of view, amplified the feeling of vulnerability and dread. This departure from the third-person action-oriented titles of the past was a welcome change, drawing players deeper into the game’s nightmarish world.
Resource Management and Survival
Beyond the change in perspective, Resident Evil 7 also brought back the survival horror focus that made the early Resident Evil games so captivating. Limited resources, such as ammunition and health items, are a constant source of stress. Players are forced to carefully consider every decision, making each bullet count and every healing item precious. This scarcity of resources creates a constant sense of unease and makes survival feel like a hard-fought battle, enhancing the overall horror experience. Unlike some of its more action-heavy predecessors, Resident Evil 7 emphasizes strategic planning and careful exploration, rewarding players who adopt a cautious and methodical approach.
A Masterclass in Atmosphere and Design
The atmosphere of Resident Evil 7 is nothing short of exceptional. The dilapidated Baker estate is a character in itself, dripping with decay, darkness, and a palpable sense of unease. From the dimly lit hallways to the mold-infested basements, every location is meticulously crafted to maximize tension and dread. The game also excels in sound design, using unsettling noises and ambient sounds to create an atmosphere of constant fear. The combination of stunning visuals, realistic textures enabled by the RE Engine, and expertly crafted audio work together seamlessly to create a truly immersive and terrifying experience.
Compelling Villains and Memorable Encounters
The Terror of the Baker Family
The Baker family is one of the most memorable and terrifying antagonists in the Resident Evil franchise. Each member, from the seemingly unstoppable Jack Baker to the grotesque Marguerite Baker, presents a unique and horrifying threat. Their bizarre and unsettling behavior, combined with their relentless pursuit of Ethan, creates a constant sense of dread. The game does a fantastic job of making the Bakers feel both human and monstrous, which adds to their disturbing presence. The boss encounters, particularly the tense and unpredictable battles with Jack, are unforgettable highlights of the game.
Unpredictable and Creative Enemy Design
Beyond the Bakers, Resident Evil 7 introduces a variety of unsettling and creatively designed enemies. From the swarms of disturbing insects to the mutated creatures lurking in the shadows, every encounter feels threatening and unpredictable. The game’s focus on close-quarters combat makes these encounters even more intense, forcing players to face their fears head-on. This variety of threats, both human and monstrous, keeps the player on edge and ensures that every corner holds a potential surprise. The emphasis on survival and close calls amplifies the impact of each enemy encounter.
Narrative and Pacing
A Compelling and Intimate Story
The story of Resident Evil 7 is a more intimate and personal narrative compared to some of the grander storylines in the franchise. Focusing on Ethan’s desperate search for his missing wife, Mia, the game creates a compelling and relatable protagonist. The focus on the events within the Baker estate creates a claustrophobic and suspenseful narrative that keeps players engaged from start to finish. The game also provides sufficient backstory and lore to be part of the wider Resident Evil universe while being able to stand alone as its own contained story.
Pacing That Keeps You Engaged
The pacing of Resident Evil 7 is expertly crafted. The game does an exceptional job of building tension slowly, with periods of intense action followed by slower, more suspenseful exploration. This careful balance prevents the game from becoming overwhelming and ensures that every moment feels impactful. The game also knows when to ramp up the pressure and when to give the player a brief respite, maintaining a high level of engagement throughout the experience. The mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat keeps players on their toes, constantly anticipating the next threat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Was Resident Evil 7 a commercial success?
Yes, Resident Evil 7 was a significant commercial success. As of 2024, it has sold over 12.4 million copies, making it the second-best-selling Capcom game of all time, just behind the Resident Evil 2 remake. This success demonstrates its strong reception and lasting impact on the gaming community.
2. Is Resident Evil 7 better than Resident Evil Village?
Many fans and critics argue that Resident Evil 7 is better than Resident Evil Village. While Village has its strengths, like a larger scale and more action, RE7’s focus on horror, its more realistic villains, and its overall atmosphere often make it the preferred choice among horror purists. The sense of dread and tension is generally considered to be higher in RE7.
3. Why is Resident Evil 7 considered the scariest game in the series?
Resident Evil 7 is often considered the scariest game in the franchise due to its first-person perspective, which heightens immersion and vulnerability, its limited resources that amplify the survival horror aspect, and the terrifying Baker family and enemies. The game’s excellent use of atmosphere, sound design, and jump scares contribute to its intensely horrifying experience.
4. How does Resident Evil 7’s graphics compare to Resident Evil 6?
Resident Evil 7’s graphics are far superior to those of Resident Evil 6. Leveraging the RE Engine, RE7 offers incredibly detailed textures, realistic shadows, and a silky smooth performance. The enhanced visual fidelity is a significant factor in the game’s success in creating a truly terrifying and immersive experience.
5. Is Resident Evil 7 the scariest game ever made?
While that’s subjective, many fans consider Resident Evil 7 one of the scariest games ever made. Its combination of first-person perspective, scarce resources, and relentlessly terrifying enemies creates a truly harrowing experience. The game’s focus on horror is a primary factor in this perception.
6. Is Resident Evil 7 more difficult than other titles?
Resident Evil 7 is considered challenging, but not the most difficult in the series. Some games, like Resident Evil – Code: Veronica and the Resident Evil 2 remake, are often cited as being more challenging. However, the resource scarcity and intense enemy encounters of RE7 provide a significant challenge.
7. Why was Resident Evil 6 disliked by many?
Resident Evil 6 was criticized for its shift towards action, straying from the franchise’s horror roots. The game’s sprawling campaign, while lengthy, was seen as lacking in quality and the horror elements were largely absent. This change in direction led many fans to feel disappointed.
8. How is Resident Evil 7 different from other Resident Evil games?
Resident Evil 7 is different due to its first-person perspective, its focus on survival horror, and its more intimate and personal narrative. It also significantly scales back the action, opting for a more suspenseful and claustrophobic experience than many previous entries in the franchise.
9. Is Resident Evil 7 gory?
Yes, Resident Evil 7 features intense violence and gore, including scenes of dismemberment, impalement, and other brutal acts. It’s a mature game not suitable for younger audiences.
10. Is the game set only in a house?
While much of Resident Evil 7 takes place within the Baker estate, the game includes multiple areas, including the mansion itself, its surrounding grounds, and a laboratory, among others. The game’s setting is much more than just a single house.
11. What age rating is Resident Evil 7?
Resident Evil 7 is rated M for Mature by the ESRB, meaning it’s intended for players aged 17 and older, due to its intense violence, gore, and strong language.
12. Do I need to play Resident Evil 6 before 7?
No, it is not necessary to play Resident Evil 6 before playing Resident Evil 7. While they are part of the same franchise, RE7 tells a completely different story with new characters.
13. Should I play Resident Evil 7 or Resident Evil 8 first?
It is highly recommended that you play Resident Evil 7 before Resident Evil 8. While RE8 can be enjoyed independently, playing RE7 first enhances the experience, provides important backstory, and helps with a better understanding of the narrative, particularly the events related to Ethan Winters.
14. Is Resident Evil 7 better than Resident Evil 4?
This is highly subjective and dependent on individual preferences. While RE4 is a groundbreaking game in its own right and a beloved classic, RE7 is a different kind of experience and often praised for its bold return to horror and is considered by some as a much better game within the context of horror experience. They are both excellent but achieve different goals.
15. What is the hardest fight in Resident Evil 7?
The second Marguerite Baker boss fight is often cited as the hardest in Resident Evil 7, due to her speed, unpredictable attacks, and the challenging combat environment.