I’m a bit new to the Resident Evil franchise. Oh, I knew the games existed and was encouraged to try them over the years, but I know my disposition, and horror, even cheesy horror, was something I avoided.
But a couple good gaming buddies of mine convinced me to try out Revelations 2 back in 2015 and they assured me it was not that scary. Since I knew this was to be a groundbreaking move for my cowardly little being, I decided I would stream and keep it.
I did scream and cower a few times, but I was hooked, and after completing that game I went OCD on RE – I played every single game available on Xbox and PSN, in sequential order starting with 0 and ending with 6. I’ve only managed to partly finish RE7’s demo, though, as the horror and suspense is still too realistic for me and I can’t bring myself to actually play the full game. Not just yet anyhow.
So of course I was pretty excited seeing the RE2 Remake reveal at E3 this year. And knowing it would be released around the time of my next birthday, I knew just how I’d be celebrating it in 2019.
However part of that celebration arrived early…..
I had a random look at Twitter one morning and Capcom UK announced that a playable demo of RE2 Remake would be available at a special event in London on 22nd June. For fans. I nearly hyperventilated. I eagerly refreshed my phone over and over when the tickets went ‘on sale’ (they were actually free) 2 days before. And couldn’t believe I got one almost immediately.
Fast forward to the 22nd, and after a fast train, a Tube ride, and a 20 minute walk, I landed in Nirvana, in the form of a bar tailored for gamers, called Server, part of a small-chain of gaming-themed bars. Consoles, big screens, board games, a bar, and plenty of happy people.
And in the back was the Capcom area, decked out like Raccoon Police Department, where there was a row of PS4s with RE2 being played, as well as a couple other consoles with MegaMan and Street Fighter demos.
I was greeted by the lovely Kat, Capcom UK’s Community Manager, wearing an old-school STARS beret a la Jill, and she explained there would be a short wait as the current group still had time. She also offered to answer any questions I might have, but to be honest, I was still in a state of shock that I was about to play the demo!
Well, my turn came up, and after settling in my chair, I let the tasty tasty demo begin.
No spoilers here, of course, however I have to say the look and feel was very realistic. Entering dark spaces with a flashlight, not knowing what to expect, and scanning over the shiny blood on surfaces was a world away from the original RE2, however it was still all very familiar too. Let’s just say that I was truly impressed, and even though the engine and the overall look is the same that is in RE7, I will not hesitate to play this one. I am not afraid. Not yet, anyway.
Afterwards I had another chat with Kat, and I told her that I was really looking forward to the release and couldn’t wait to tell others about it. Which I have been doing. Part of the ticket included a free drink, which was a nice touch. And though I settled for a pint of cider, I later learned of Server’s wonderful game-inspired cocktail menu. I’ll remember that for next time.
All in all, a wonderful experience. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. And I’m so glad I walked out of my gaming comfort zone back in 2015 – I’ve pretty much boarded the Ecliptic Express and made Raccoon City my home.
Lady Gamer 