Capcom reimagined a 1999 horror classic, but did they cut too much content?
In short: The 2020 remake of Resident Evil 3 modernized a survival horror icon, trading original branching paths for a tighter, action-focused narrative. While critics praised its polished visuals and tense atmosphere, the game sparked debate over its brevity and the exclusion of beloved locations from the 1999 source material.
Director Kiyohiko Sakata aimed to create a more consistent story, prioritizing character development for protagonist Jill Valentine and her ally Carlos Oliveira. To achieve this, the team removed the original game's multiple endings and live-choice mechanics, opting instead for a focused, cinematic experience. This shift toward action included revamped movement, a new dodge mechanic, and a counter-attack system, though it drew criticism for relying heavily on scripted sequences.
The game's primary antagonist, the Nemesis, underwent a significant redesign. To emphasize his status as an unfinished prototype, the art team dressed him in bodybags rather than traditional clothing. While Sakata initially wanted the creature to stalk the player throughout the entire game, the team shifted his AI to focus on aggressive, scripted encounters after observing the Tyrant's behavior in the Resident Evil 2 remake. This decision left some critics feeling that the monster's potential was underutilized, as he appears primarily in boss fights or specific set pieces.
Reception was divided. Outlets like IGN and Game Informer lauded the game's presentation and pacing, while others, such as PC Gamer, felt the experience was rushed and lacked the depth of its predecessor. The game's length—typically six to eight hours—remains a point of contention, with some arguing it mirrors the original's spirit while others lament the loss of areas like the clock tower and city hall. Despite these mixed reviews, the title proved a commercial success, reaching 13.36 million copies sold by May 2026.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Resident Evil 3 (2020 video game)
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