Anyone that knows me knows that "Resident Evil 4" is my favorite video game of all time. I remember being 12 years old watching my older brother play the game, and later on, picking up the controller to experience it for myself.
And I have been in love ever since.
Aside from its well deserved critical acclaim, the amazing voice acting and its unique storyline, here are a few reasons why "Resident Evil 4" holds such a dear place in my heart.
1. The bromance between Leon and Luis between then until "death do us part.
Luis Sera is the true definition of "deserved better." He makes his first and only appearance in the Resident Evil series as he befriends Leon and manages to help him by getting a growth suppressant for the Las Plagas parasite.
I was indeed sad to see him go, but something in me denies that he's dead and that maybe one day he'll reappear in a future game. Pffft. Let me dream.
2. Leon's Character Development
In "Resident Evil 4," we notice a huge growth in Leon. Aside from transitioning from a small town police officer to a government agent, we notice a huge improvement in his fighting skills.
Also, while he still manages to carry his sense of justice and duty, he loses the whole "I'm the boss and everyone should listen to me" attitude that he had in "Resident Evil 2." Here, we see him as more mature and grounded.
3. The Chainsaw Guy (Dr. Salvador)
The first time I ever played this game, Dr. Salvador sneak attacked me (in other words, decapitated me with his chainsaw) and I was completely mortified. Of course, all you gotta do is hear the rev of his chainsaw to know he's ready for some decapitation action. It's moments like that where you thank God for the shotgun.
4. Those creepy Regenerators that scared the bejesus out of all of us.
Its weird breathing noises, eerie appearance and the fact that it freakin' regenerates are the things that made this character iconic.
5. The reunion between Leon Kennedy and Ada Wong
Leon and Ada kinda had a thing in "Resident Evil 2." While it is near impossible for them to actually be together because of their jobs, it was nice to see them reunite for just a little while.
6. The Merchant
Ah, yes. The friendly Ganado that you sell items to and buy weapons from. Greeting you with a warm "Got some good things on sale, stranger!" it would be hard for one to forget his voice and other famous sayings such as "Wadd'ya buyin'?"
7. It is the first game in the series to have a third-person, over the shoulder view.
This is honestly pretty handy compared to the awkward fixed camera angles in the earlier games. Also, the controls run much, much smoother.
8. It has greatly improved graphics compared to the last three games.
Along with better camera angles and smoother controls, there's a huge update in the graphics. The blood looks more realistic instead of some cheesy bright-red color. Also, the scenery of the castles and cathedrals are just beautiful.
9. It's the first of the series to mix action with survival horror.
Resident Evil 1, 2 and 3 mainly focused on the suspense and horror elements. While "Resident Evil 4" comes in the picture with more action-related elements while still having the themes of survival horror.
10. The quick time events.
While quick time events are quite noticeable in gameplay, they can throw you off during a cutscene for first-time players of the game. Don't let Jack Krauser's smooth talk distract you.
