Resident Evil Outbreak

"Same Old Same Old"

INTRO: The resident evil franchise is one of the most profitable and successful video game franchises of all time. The series has spawned many books, movies, and nearly a dozen games. Although RE did not create the genre, but RE has certainly has defined the survival horror genre. Personally I thought the series peaked at RE 2. Code Veronica was good too. The series now has some sort of a contract with Gamecube so the PS2 has seen only Code Veronica and Dead Aim. Both held their own but can not compete with the Gamecube exclusives. Now the franchise has given a completely original game to their loyal PS2 audience, which is fully compatible. All and all, this installment has its strengths, but it still does fall a little short of expectations.

GRAPHICS: The RE series has always been known for its graphical premise. Outbreak does not disappoint here, but it is not to impressive either considering the track record. The most glaring problem is the low resolution. It almost seems that (even with the hard drive) the PS2 is being pushed to far. The detail in the environments and facial expressions is extremely impressive. But the result is a low frame rate, which creates grainy areas and pixilation. On the good side the character designs are well done. All of the characters look believable and fit into their situations. Like I stated early the facial expressions are very well done. The cut scenes are also beautifully rendered. They are arguably the best of the series.
Score 8

SOUND: The sound is probably the strongest point of the game overall. The sound effects are great and very suitable chilling for the game. The voice acting is also well done too. Although no big name actors were used, all of the characters sound lively and have a lot to say. In fact I was actually impressed with the amount of sayings each character had. But this is also crucial considering there is no other means of communication in the online play. The music is good too. In typical RE fashion the music does a very good job of setting the mood. The only thing that keeps this category from a perfect score is the lack of USB chat online.
Score 9

CONTROLS: As expected the controls are still the biggest downside of the game. I heard rumors that the pre rendered backgrounds would be gone for Outbreak, and with it all of the navigation problems, but no such luck their. Although more refined than Code Veronica, basic functions such as aiming, navigation, and picking up items can still be a hassle.
Score 6

STORY: Again the minds behind RE deliver a slightly plausible plot to keep the gamer going, although this time it is compelling. The opening credits show that briefly after the outbreak of the virus, rats ate an infected person becoming infected themselves. They then spread the virus themselves and the rest is history. This bubonic plague touch is well used and delivered. Having 8 different characters with different personalities also breathes a lot of life into the story as well.
Score 9

REPLAY: Although Outbreak is online, the lack of innovation in it is what really brings this game down. RE fans were delighted to hear the countless hours playing in groups with actual people online. But lack of new content for online play, and no direct communication available bring down its replay significantly. The five chapters are the same on and offline. Once you have played and beaten the game, which is rather short to begin with, you're pretty much going to shelf this one.
Score 6

GAMEPLAY: If you have played one RE game then you have played this one. No great gameplay additions are made to reinvent the series. Instead we are left with if it ain't broke don't fix it game. Online play was supposed to be the big seller this time around, but the novelty of it runs off quick. In fact it is almost more enjoyable to play offline than online. The best part about this game is being able to mix objects to create healing potions and various weapons. In fact some characters specialize in just that idea. The ability to play as eight characters does have some replay merit, especially since they all have their own believable personalities, but they all play the same in the end. The different characters range from a cop to little girl to a waitress. The multiple characters are the best feature to the game but it still does not define the game. Overall the game feels as a disappointment because of the uninspired online play.
Score 6

BOTTOM LINE: Disappointed is the bet one to describe my feelings about this game. The online play was a real let down and Outbreak turns out to be nothing but another gameplay rehash. The multiple characters aside the depth is lacking, so is innovation in an old franchise.

Reviewer's Score: 6/10, Originally Posted: 05/09/04