Review of Resident Evil Archives for the Wii

The original Resident Evil was released in 1996 for the PSone. The video game began the survival horror craze and became an instant classic. In the recent years, it has been ported to the Gamecube, PSN, and Wii. Even though the series has evolved into more action based, it's always interesting to re-examine the beginning. If you're nostalgic for some impossibly hard puzzles and bad camera angles, Resident Evil Archives: Resident Evil on the Wii is for you.

Resident Evil Archives Game Play
There are a few changes from the original. The graphics are a bit improved. Camera angles aren't perfect and sometimes you can't see that turn in the hallway. The slightly maddening controls are present. This is frustrating at times, especially when Jill walks backwards or run into walls. The Wii remote can be used alone or with the nunchuk. There is also support for the Gamecube and Classic controller. I found the Wii remote without the nunchuk a bit difficult to get the hang of. The Gamecube controller is the best choice, as this is a direct port from the Gamecube version.

You can play as either Jill or Chris. There are limited slots to carry items, herbs, and weapons. Of course, there is still the infamous typewriter and ink ribbon as your only means of saving progress. The puzzles can be challenging and feel uneven at times. Many of the puzzles force you to stop, figure out what to do next, and closely re-examine your surroundings. While the zombies and undead dogs may not have the shock value they did in 1996, they are still tough enemies. The game lulls you into a false of security at points. Next thing you know, the zombie laying "dead" on the floor is attacking you.

Resident Evil Archives Replay Value
I don't want to constantly replay Resident Evil Archives. Although, it certainly deserves a place in any game collection. I can see myself being drawn back to Resident Evil from time to time. For me, this game requires strategy, thought, and patience. That's what I love about it. While it is possible to blaze through it quickly, I prefer to sit back and enjoy it slowly.

I will always have fond memories of the original Resident Evil. Gamers who never played the earlier Resident Evil games may not enjoy it as much as people who played the series from the beginning. The controls can hinder progress, especially if you can't aim properly or run away when needed. The camera angles take some getting used to and you can't save often. Even with it's flaws, Resident Evil is a creepy, scary classic that holds up well 14 years later.

Sources:

Personal experience