Resident Evil: Dead Aim

"Lock and load, crank up the heavy metal - it's gametime"

After playing both Dino Stalker(which is Gun Survivor 3 in Japan) and playing/owning Resident Evil Survivor(aka Gun Survivor 1) I was skeptical, but the guncon compatibility convinced me to buy instead of rent. When I started playing, I was surprised.

Graphics - 10

These graphics are better than RE:CVX's. they are not as good as the Gamecube REmake of RE1 or RE0, but for the PS2, they are EXCELLENT! However, the lack of difference in zombies is a result of these great graphics(there are about 10 or 12 different models of zombie). The creatures themselves are detailed and well made. Also, the blood is great looking - cap a zombie in the head while it's back is to a wall and you'll see what I mean...all I can say is that it's better blood effects than Resident Evil 0.

Sounds - 10

Excellent sounds and effects for a Resident Evil game. Heck, excellent sounds for a light gun game. You can tell the difference between the various weapons, including the 9mm handguns. Also, the zombies have a better ''moan'' than in previous RE titles(except for possibly the REmake and RE0). The other creatures also sound better than their previous counterparts.

Control - 1(with dual shock 2 controller) 10(with guncon 2)

I tried playing the game with the dual shock controller first; what a mistake. Granted, moving and fighting were easy with the controller, but the Guncon simply makes the game a complete experience. If you have a Guncon, save yourself a bit of a headache and play with the Guncon - forget that it can be played with a controller.

Animation - 10

Everything is SMOOTH - the way the characters move is beautiful. Capcom outdid themselves in this department. The FMV - no hesitation between the game and the FMV - it just flows into one another with a nice fadeout effect between the two.

Gameplay - 10

This is very simple compared to other RE titles - items(aside from healing items) are used automatically, making the game streamlined. Also, transition from exploring(which is in classic third person view) to combat(which is in first person view) is seamless - pressing the shoot button/pulling the trigger brings you into battle mode. Also, like all light gun games, shooting off screen will reload your weapon. And like all other previous Gun Survivor titles, you have unlimited handgun ammo. However, UNLIKE Gun Survivor 1, you have a set amount you can carry with you - if it runs out, tough. There ARE ammo cabinets throughout the game where you can fully restock your handgun ammo supply. Also, you can only carry a total of six ammo at a time, so weapons management is vital to completing the game - you don't want to fight the bosses with a mere handgun, trust me.

Replayability - 6

Although there IS the higher rank to acquire, there are NO secret weapons in the game. However, being a light gun game, there IS the desire to increase one's accuracy, as well as the added challenge by playing the game as far away from the TV as possible. Also, even though the game does not record your total time, attempting to complete the game as quickly as possible is also a plus in it's replayability factor.

Overall - 9

This game has too much going for it to be placed on the shelf after a single play through. If you don't have a guncon, rent it first - you may like using the dual shock 2 controller better than I did. Lastly, it gives us players an idea of what future Re titles may have as a lot of new stuff was introduced here.....

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 06/25/03, Updated 06/25/03