Resident Evil 5, unlike its universally praised predecessor, faced a more mixed reception from long-time fans of the series. Released four years after Resident Evil 4, it continued the franchise’s shift towards a more action-oriented direction, reducing the emphasis on puzzles and focusing more on set pieces, boss battles, and frequent combat encounters. While some fans saw this as a natural evolution, others felt it strayed too far from the survival horror roots that defined the series.
However, one aspect of Resident Evil 5 that received widespread criticism was its implementation of co-op gameplay. While playing through the entire game in 2-player co-op could be enjoyable with a friend, it posed significant challenges for solo players. As rumors swirl about a potential Resident Evil 5 remake, addressing these issues becomes crucial.
The remake must prioritize overhauling the game’s AI, which severely hampered the solo experience in the original. Resident Evil 5’s AI partner exhibited glaring flaws, frequently getting stuck on objects, failing to interact with cooperative elements, and obstructing the player’s progress. Updating the AI to meet modern standards is essential to ensuring a playable solo experience in the remake.
Moreover, the remake should aim to deepen the narrative aspects of co-op gameplay. In the original, protagonists Chris Redfield and Sheva Alomar had minimal interaction during gameplay, leading to a disconnect between their relationship in cutscenes and gameplay. Enhancing dialogue between the characters during gameplay segments can provide insight into their backgrounds, their experiences with the BSAA, and their reactions to the unfolding events. This would add depth to their relationship and make co-op gameplay more engaging for players.
Additionally, the remake should address technical issues such as lag in online co-op, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience for players across all platforms.
By addressing these shortcomings and enhancing the co-op experience, a potential Resident Evil 5 remake has the opportunity to deliver a more polished and enjoyable gameplay experience while staying true to the essence of the original game.