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Resident Evil HD Review Roundup

Here's what the critics are saying about the latest remastered version of the 1996 classic horror game.

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Capcom's latest remastered version of the original Resident Evil game launched today for Xbox 360, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and PC. But how is it holding up with critics?

We've pulled together some reviews to help you decide if it's worth the $20 purchase.

GameSpot -- 7/10

"It is you, the mansion, and your imagination. As it happens, that trio makes for a fine adventure, without the need for more monsters, more outbreaks, and more guns." - Kevin VanOrd [Full review]

IGN -- 8/10

"I love coming back to Resident Evil, and this version does a good job of updating the look and feel of an old game for a modern audience. Some of the older visual flaws detract from the experience and pulled me out of tense moments, but the gameplay hooked me right back in. Resident Evil relies on atmosphere, tough limitations, and danger creeping around all corners, and this port recaptures the formula of a classic, relentless survival-horror game." - Jose Otero [Full review]

Polygon -- 7/10

"Resident Evil is still a classic, but it's hard for some people to go back to. In fact, 'it works fine' kind of sums up my feelings on Resident Evil's HD remaster as a whole. Whether or not that's high praise will depend entirely on your personal history. I have trouble imagining anyone who didn't play and enjoy the early Resident Evil games getting really pulled into this remake. But there's no doubt to me that there's still something magical here, some formula that can't ever be replicated in quite the same way. For one special game--in 1996, in 2002, in 2015--it works." - Philip Kollar [Full review]

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Eurogamer -- 7/10

"As a product of a unique moment in the medium's technological evolution, Resident Evil HD is a fascinating place to revisit. But for many contemporary visitors it will be an unpleasant stay, not because the game's inhabitants are unusually hostile, or because its idiosyncrasies are unfashionable, but because its formative designs have simply been bettered." - Simon Parkin [Full review]

Destructoid -- 9.5/10

"Although I'd love the chance to play a remastered Resident Evil 2 for the first time with updated controls, I'm glad Capcom decided to revive the first entry again. Resident Evil is truly is a timeless classic that every generation should enjoy, and a perfect example of how to do survival horror without decking players out with a full armory. Welcome back to the mansion." - Chris Carter [Full review]

PCGamer -- 80/100

"A brilliant, brutal survival horror dripping in atmosphere. It's from the oldest of schools, but still offers a rewarding challenge." - Andy Kelly [Full review]

Game Informer -- 9.5/10

"These new controls, along with a new easy mode that boosts ammo and health and makes enemies far weaker, present the perfect jumping-on point for RE fans that've been hesitant to try out the classics that solidified the genre's legacy. Purists can stick to the original controls and aspect ratio, but I doubt I'll be going back after shedding the clunky mechanics. I'd love to see Capcom remake the entire catalog of early titles in this style." - Tim Turi [Full review]

Bloody Disgusting -- 8.5/10

"Capcom has raised the bar for HD remasters with this necessary update of a beloved survival horror classic. Dig in, because this Jill Sandwich is itchy tasty." - Adam Dodd [Full review]

GamesRadar -- 4/5

"Generally well polished and deeply atmospheric, this is Resident Evil amplified and with a brand new set of authentically imperfect controls, but let down a little by occasional low-quality backgrounds." - Matt Clapham [Full review]

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