Resident Evil 2 and 3 Remakes on PS5: A Deep Dive into Classic Horror Reimagined

Written by Adam Roy Pedersen

Resident Evil 2 & 3 | Capcom

Upgraded Versions of Old Horror Classics

Resident Evil 2 - Capcom

Both Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3 are classics from the original PlayStation era, released in 1998 and 1999, respectively. Back then, these games were revolutionary in bringing cinematic horror to consoles, with their eerie pre-rendered backgrounds, tank controls, and tense atmospheres. Fast forward two decades later, Capcom dropped remakes that took these iconic experiences and reimagined them with the RE Engine, delivering fully modern graphics, dynamic lighting, better controls, and revamped gameplay mechanics. The result? Pure zombie-filled gold.

Gone are the stiff tank controls (thankfully), replaced with slick, over-the-shoulder third-person shooting mechanics that still keep the tension high. The environments are now fully 3D, and Raccoon City looks more terrifying than ever. Plus, the audio design – those distant growls and the unnerving sound of a zombie dragging its feet around the corner – will make you reconsider playing these games at night.

If you’ve been itching to revisit the spine-chilling world of Resident Evil with a fresh twist, the PS5 remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 3 are here to deliver just that. These aren’t just simple updates—they’re complete overhauls that blend nostalgic elements with cutting-edge technology. Let’s dive into what makes these remakes stand out, from stunning graphics to unique gameplay features.

Unmatched Visuals and Detail

Resident Evil 2 Remake - Capcom

When it comes to graphics, the PS5 remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 3 set a new standard. Here’s what you can expect:

• Ultra-High-Resolution Textures: The textures in these remakes are incredibly detailed, bringing Raccoon City to life like never before. Every grime-covered wall and every blood-spattered surface is rendered with precision, adding to the game’s eerie atmosphere.

• Advanced Lighting and Shadows: The lighting effects in these games are top-notch. Dynamic shadows and realistic lighting enhance the sense of dread as you explore dark, foreboding environments. Light flickers through broken windows and casts ominous shadows, creating a more immersive horror experience.

• Enhanced Character Models: Character models have been given a major upgrade, with more detailed facial expressions and lifelike movements. This added detail makes interactions with characters more emotionally engaging and heightens the tension during critical moments.

• Realistic Environmental Effects: The PS5’s power allows for stunning environmental effects. Rain, fog, and debris react dynamically to your actions, adding an extra layer of realism to the game world.

Nostalgia with a Modern Twist

Resident Evil 3: Nemesis - Capcom

For fans of the original games, the PS5 remakes offer a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern enhancements:

• Faithful Recreation: Both remakes capture the essence of the original Resident Evil games, preserving familiar locations, characters, and storylines. Fans will recognize iconic elements from the classics while enjoying updated visuals and gameplay improvements.

  
  

• Modern Gameplay Enhancements: While the remakes stay true to their roots, they also introduce modern gameplay features. Responsive controls, smoother combat mechanics, and refined gameplay make the experience more accessible and enjoyable for both new players and veterans.

What Sets Each Game Apart

Resident Evil 2 and 3 each offer unique experiences, even though they share the same setting:

• Resident Evil 2: Set at the outbreak’s beginning, this game follows Leon Kennedy and Claire Redfield as they navigate Raccoon City’s chaos. Known for its intense atmosphere and intricate puzzles, Resident Evil 2’s expansive police station and its tense exploration make it a classic survival horror experience.

• Resident Evil 3: Taking place concurrently with Resident Evil 2, this game follows Jill Valentine’s fight for survival against the backdrop of the city’s destruction. The standout feature here is Nemesis, a relentless bio-engineered creature that hunts Jill throughout the game. This adds a unique level of urgency and action, making each encounter more intense.

Main Differences Between RE2 and RE3 Remakes

Resident Evil 3 Gameplay - Capcom

Now, let’s break down the key differences to help you decide which one suits your style:

1. Pacing:

   • RE2: Slower, methodical, more emphasis on exploration and solving puzzles.

   • RE3: Faster, more action-heavy with intense chase sequences.

2. Enemies:

   • RE2: Zombies, lickers, and Mr. X will haunt your steps, especially in the tight corridors of the police station.

   • RE3: Nemesis is a constant threat, and the game throws a wider variety of enemies at you, including mutants and zombie dogs.

3. Survival Elements:

   • RE2: Ammo and healing items are scarce. You’ll often find yourself trying to avoid fights entirely to conserve resources.

   • RE3: More generous with ammo and health, but you'll need it because of the more action-oriented gameplay and stronger enemies.

4. Story & Characters:

   • RE2: You get to experience two different perspectives with Leon and Claire, doubling the narrative depth.

   • RE3: Jill’s story is shorter but more intense, with the Nemesis adding constant pressure.

5. Length:

   • RE2: Longer campaign with two main storylines (Leon and Claire). Expect about 10–12 hours for a single playthrough.

   • RE3: Shorter, more linear story focused on Jill’s escape from Raccoon City. Roughly 6–8 hours long.

What to Look Out For When Choosing Between RE2 and RE3

Resident Evil 3 - Capcom

• If you love classic survival horror with a slow-burn atmosphere, puzzles, and resource management, Resident Evil 2 Remake is where you want to be. The RPD building’s dark, moody corridors, combined with Mr. X’s looming presence, will keep your anxiety high from start to finish.

• If you prefer fast-paced action with cinematic chase sequences, explosive moments, and more dynamic enemy encounters, Resident Evil 3 Remake is your go-to. The relentless Nemesis will make sure you never feel safe, and the quicker, more intense gameplay will keep your heart racing.

Additional PS5 Features

Resident Evil 2 & 3 Remake - Capcom

• Haptic Feedback and Adaptive Triggers: The DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers enhance the gameplay experience. You’ll feel every shot and every tense moment, adding a new level of immersion.

• 3D Audio: The PS5’s 3D audio technology makes the sound design even more immersive. You’ll hear every groan, creak, and distant noise with remarkable clarity, deepening the sense of being in a living, breathing horror environment.

In summary, the Resident Evil 2 and 3 PS5 remakes are a stellar blend of nostalgia and next-gen innovation. With breathtaking graphics, immersive sound design, and refined gameplay, these remakes are a must-play for both long-time fans and newcomers. Whether you’re revisiting the horrors of Raccoon City or experiencing them for the first time, these games offer a thrilling and unforgettable experience. So grab your controller, turn off the lights, and

get ready for some heart-pounding action.

Final Verdict – Which One to Get?

Both Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3 Remakes are absolute bangers, each with their own flavor of horror. If you’re more into a traditional survival horror vibe with slower pacing, intricate puzzles, and a heavier focus on resource management, Resident Evil 2 is the one. On the other hand, if you want more action, bigger explosions, and faster gameplay, Resident Evil 3 is your game.

If you can, grab both – you’ll get two different but equally terrifying experiences that’ll have you questioning why you ever thought visiting Raccoon City was a good idea in the first place.