Still not sure if I love this more or less than the original lol. I think the remake has less parts of the game that I outright dislike (QTE's are gone, the boss fights are much more enjoyable, and I actually enjoyed Separate Ways enough to replay it multiple times), but I really like the original's stop-and-shoot rhythm. This remake's combat is still amazing of course, but it feels less unique and a bit too forgiving for a horror game. Being able to parry really takes the tension out of making mistakes, even if there is knife durability now. At least it looks stylish as hell!
One thing I do adore about RE4R is how it really sold me on RE4's characters and story. Ashley and Luis are absolutely wonderful and I'm sad we'll probably never see them again. Every second spent with the merchant is as pleasant as ever, especially so in his adorably ridiculous shooting gallery!
Overall, I'm happy this remake has given me an additional excuse to revisit Resident Evil's twisted version of Spain and I imagine it will remain a mainstay on my spooky October playlist. If only I was good enough to unlock those cat ears...