The granddaddy of survival horror is getting a makeover.
"Resident Evil," the game that pioneered video games with creepy zombies, B-movie dialogue, and dark atmosphere back in 1996, is being updated for next-gen consoles.
Entitled "Resident Evil HD Remaster," a report by The Guardian indicates a 1080p resolution version is coming to the PC, Xbox One, and PlayStation 4. A 720p version will be available for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. It will be based on the critically-acclaimed 2002 remake by Capcom that appeared on both Nintendo's GameCube and the Nintendo DS.
Enhanced graphics and sound are promised for this version, but the in-game content will remain the same, something sure to delight fans of the gaming classic. Another highlight of the game will allow players the option of choosing between the original 4:3 screen ratio or 16:9 widescreen.
Kotaku reports that the control scheme will also feature two options: the classic controls that forced characters to pivot on the spot to turn around, and a newer scheme where the characters follow the direction you make with the analog stick. The camera will also supposedly scroll more smoothly in lieu of the expressionistic yet clunky angles of the original.
Known as "Biohazard" in Japan, the original game created by Shinji Mikami was a global success on the first PlayStation that terrified gamers while also making them come back for more. Mikami himself introduced the term "survival horror," meaning a video game where characters need to stay alive in a gruesome and deadly environment.
Spawning several sequels across numerous gaming platforms, "Resident Evil" has even been adapted into several movies, mostly starring Milla Jovovich.
The original "Resident Evil" introduced playable characters Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine, part of an elite team known as S.T.A.R.S., who end up trying to survive in the dark and mysterious Raccoon City. Uncovering the genetic experiments of the malevolent Umbrella Corporation, the characters face everything from undead zombies to zombie dogs while also solving puzzles that help them stay alive.
Aside from the previously mentioned, part of the game's charm was the cheesy over-the-top voice acting that was akin to the acting seen in low budget B-movies.
"Resident Evil HD Remaster" is scheduled for release in Japan on November 27 on the PS3 and Xbox 360, to be followed by the PS4, Xbox One, and PC versions in early 2015. At present, there is no date yet for a North America and European release.