I admit, I'm not exactly a fan of getting scared, but with third person shooter horror games making a comeback, I knew I had to start somewhere. This game intrigued me because of the way people described it: a short, linear, action focused entry leaning on its predecessor's much beloved fundamentals. I imagine this would be a good point of entry for me, since I'm more used to action gameplay.

Before we get any further, I just need to gush about Jill Valentine here. Her design is incredible, and her tough but caring attitude makes for a very likeable character to play as. She also has great chemistry with Carlos, whose slightly playful and optimistic personality significantly heightens the fun factor of the game. I do wish that they get more screen time together. They are certainly the best part of the somewhat average story.

I have watched playthroughs of the original RE3 before so I have some idea of how this compares. Nemesis is back, but in a much more restrained and repetitive form, as the game tries to pull Naughty Dog-esque set pieces in most of the encounters. It does fit the action focus of the game, but the execution feels closer to Uncharted 1 rather than the newer, more technically proficient and interactive entries, leaving it feeling dated and unimpressive. You'll fight Nemesis multiple times as a boss, and while it is cool to see their evolution as it goes, the excitement of each fight only gets lower each time. I would rather have them do something more original instead, like maybe focusing on the interplay between Jill and Carlos more, and sacrificing the Nemesis' screentime. I'm also aware of the cut content from the original, I can't say I felt their absence since the game's length felt good to me.

Speaking of, I beat the game in 6 hours and I was quite satisfied. The levels overall are fun to explore, despite being mostly about scrounging the right items again and again. The Hospital is certainly a highlight for me, where its ravaged halls holds the stage for the scariest section of the game, even if it ends with in a bombastic way. The gunplay feels great, with solid gore effects. Blasting heads off with the shotgun is ridiculously addicting. I was expecting puzzles but there's barely any, I guess it wouldn't fit the shorter length.

One more thing: I hate the main human antagonist, they're one of those bad guys that seem to be always one step ahead for no reason. If we get to see them taking down zombies and such by themselves maybe I wouldn't be as annoyed, it just breaks my immersion.

All in all, RE3 is a solid rollercoaster ride that won't amaze you too much. Expect this to entertain, but not leave a long lasting impression.

Reviewed on Jan 28, 2023


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