If you've never played OG RE4 (2005), you won't miss anything by jumping straight to RE4R (2023). The remake surpasses the original in every way, right down to the story and characterisation.

Ashley is less annoying and has better chemistry with Leon, while Luis and Krauser have more fleshed out motivations that tie in to Leon's character arc. Even the backstories of the main villains have been updated to form a more cohesive narrative in the RE canon.

Unfortunately, Ada is the only cast member that suffers in the remake due to a lousy and miscast actor. Remake-Ada exudes none of the mystique and panache that made her such an iconic and popular character. Now she feels like a generic female "Black Widow" secret agent — with none of Scarlett Johansson's charisma.

Gameplay-wise, many of the signature set-pieces and monsters have been updated with new twists or variations. This is one of the very few remakes where the developer deliberately uses the player's foreknowledge of the original to throw in some unexpected surprises.

Gone are quick-time events during cutscenes, however you will still be prompted with QTEs during most of the boss encounters. The updated controls feel more fluid, modernising RE4's combat into what you've come to expect from a 2023 title.

Does RE4R justify its existence for this remake? Absolutely yes. Is it the best game in the series? Nope. That honour goes to Resident Evil 7 (if you can play it in VR).

If you've never played OG RE4 (2005), you won't miss anything by jumping straight to RE4R (2023). The remake surpasses the original in every way, right down to the story and characterisation. Ashley is less annoying and has better chemistry with Leon, while Luis and Krauser have more fleshed out motivations that tie in to Leon's character arc. Even the backstories of the main villains have been updated to form a more cohesive narrative in the RE canon. Unfortunately, Ada is the only cast member that suffers in the remake due to a lousy and miscast actor. Remake-Ada exudes none of the mystique and panache that made her such an iconic and popular character. Now she feels like a generic female "Black Widow" secret agent — with none of Scarlett Johansson's charisma. Gameplay-wise, many of the signature set-pieces and monsters have been updated with new twists or variations. This is one of the very few remakes where the developer deliberately uses the player's foreknowledge of the original to throw in some unexpected surprises. Gone are quick-time events during cutscenes, however you will still be prompted with QTEs during most of the boss encounters. The updated controls feel more fluid, modernising RE4's combat into what you've come to expect from a 2023 title. Does RE4R justify its existence for this remake? Absolutely yes. Is it the best game in the series? Nope. That honour goes to Resident Evil 7 (if you can play it in VR).