Resident Evil 2 Remake Confirmed

Capcom is remaking PlayStation One survival-horror classic Resident Evil 2 for modern consoles.

A video announcing the project reveals it is being headed up by Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, producer of the Resident Evil HD Remaster released in January 2015, and Capcom R&D Division 1.

Speaking in the video, Hirabayashi said the project was given the go ahead "thanks to your incredible passion and support."

He continues: "You've been telling us for years that you want Resident Evil 2 to be remade, and we haven't been able to make it happen... until now! We at R&D Division 1 will do our best to take on your feedback and deliver the gameplay experience you've been waiting for."

Hirabayashi's statement indicate the project is in the very early stages of development and "it will be some time before [Capcom] can bring you an update on this project."

It is likely the decision to remake Resident Evil 2 is a response to the fan-made Resident Evil 2 remake, which developed a following from series enthusiasts and caught Capcom's eye. On July 30, 2015, Capcom asked fans for their opinions on a Resident Evil 2 remake, indicating it was considering the undertaking itself.

A day later, Hirabayashi confirmed he had pitched Resident Evil 2 HD to his boss, the results of which have now been revealed.

Capcom has issued a statement regarding the remake to VideoGamer: "We're pleased to confirm that Resident Evil 2 has been approved for development," a representative said.

"As the title is only just starting its development cycle we unfortunately don't have any additional information or assets to share at this time.

"For now we want our fans to know that we appreciate all the feedback and support we've received on this title. We're looking forward to delivering this highly anticipated Resident Evil experience that fans have been waiting for."

Although specific release platforms are yet to be announced, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC are likely candidates. The site also says it "understands the title will be a complete remake of the original game."

Remakes of classics have proven to be a big success for Capcom. The company highlighted re-releases as a "key business activity" in a financial briefing, going so far as to say it intends on pursuing more in the future.

"HD remasters of our catalogue hit titles will be one of our key business activities ... [digital sales] created new demand for these titles. For example, overseas download sales of "Resident Evil" (HD Remastered) in the past fiscal year were far higher than we expected.

"It is not a risk but rather the growth of the download sales channel gives users more options. We regard this as growth in opportunities to have allow access for more people to enjoy our games."

Resident Evil HD Remaster was released in January 20 on consoles and PC, and broke sales records for Capcom, becoming the fastest selling digital title in the company's history across North America and Europe. To follow this up, Capcom announced the remaster of Gamecube exclusive Resident Evil Zero.