Resident Evil 2: 9 Things To Look Forward To

Often cited as a prime example of a sequel done right, Resident Evil 2 was a runaway success on its 1998 release for the PlayStation. Improved visuals, a dual-character narrative and raised stakes on the jump scare front, it was a worthy successor to its original game.

So when it was announced in 2015 there was to be a remake, fans were optimistic yet cautious about what to expect. Was it to be like REmake, essentially the same game as the original with much improved visuals and dialogue, and slight story changes? Or was it going to be loaded with the over-the-top bloat of the later sequels, making it a more bombastic, action-based game?

Thankfully, at E3 2018, fan's prayers were answered, and we got a look at what we were getting. A new way to play an old classic, massive graphic overhaul against familiar locales, and both friend and foe getting a makeover.

Luckily, you needn't have to have played the first one to be able to enjoy this one, as Capcom have done their best to draw in newcomers to the series too. Acting as more of a soft reboot than a straightforward remake, it should please both old and new fans alike.

So suit up, rookie, and join us as we look at what to expect from the Resident Evil 2 reimagining when it lands on January 25th:

One thing that remains the same in this re-imagining is the eclectic cast that made up the original.

Series mainstays Leon Kennedy and Claire Redfield made their debuts in this, and are both playable in this. There's even a nod to original protagonist Elza Walker,from the early version of the game, as a character skin for Claire.

Supporting characters Ada Wong and Sherry Birkin make their "return" too, and have seemingly more fleshed out roles this time around. Reduced to enemy dodging and block moving in the original, this time Ada plays more into the spy role that expanded in later titles. Sherry, as yet, hasn't been seen in action as much, but does hold pivotal story ties so we shall see.

Primary antagonist William Birkin looks more sinister than before, and his wife, Annette, has also been expanded on. Taking on more of a "support antagonist" role, it seems unclear as to why she's protecting her husband, or perhaps their work...

Bryan Irons, the corrupt police chief, is still a prominent feature in Claire's story, as his motives for rescuing Sherry will become apparent. Taking more of a direct approach, instead of languishing in his office, it'll be interesting how much a deterrent he is this time.

Gun store owner Robert Kendo also returns, as Leon and Ada have an encounter with him. His fate as yet unknown, let's just hope he has more than one large, singular glass window to protect him this time.

Then there's the enemies...