This Is What A Game Should Look Like
This installment took the series to an entirely different level among both the survival horror genre as well as any PS2/Gamecube release. Everything about this game is just so refined and everything flows really well. The pacing, the suspense and the soundtrack are all top notch and the action sequences and boss fights are memorable. There are various side stories based on Leon the main character's past in Racoon City as well as his strained relationship with the mysterious Ada Wong which makes the campaign one that everyone will want to finish. The survival horror tag stands true although a bit of the horror of the first games has been lost the campaign really does feel like it is a survival mission. Scarce ammo and multiple enemies make the game feel like you are alone and although you'll find some help along the way the individual sections feel frantic and realistic.
The boss fights really push this game over the edge with their design and creativity. The various locales of boss fights are what is most impressive as well as the stages that some boss fights entale is really something special. Although there is usually not much strategy involved to take down these bosses they will require a little bit of thought as well as some quicktime button actions to keep the player honest and stay alive long enough to blast away.
The weapons in the game are fairly generic although satisfying. Handguns, Shotguns, SMGs and Rifles highlight Resident Evil 4's selection with other options like a mine thrower and RPG to give the player some options to work with. The unlockable weapons are creative even if they are overpowered, regardless they are still fun to run through the campaign in a day with.
With all the shooting I find it ironic that my favourite scene in the game is a knife fight between Leon and a figure from his past, its focused around quicktime button actions but the cinematics are what makes it so special.
There is really nothing that could cause anyone to call this game boring, it is nothing short of a thrill ride all the way through, its one of the best games of all time, one of my favourite of all time and is a must purchase for everyone.