4.5/5 ★ – hcolesmith's review of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard.

On a replay of Resident Evil 7, four years later with all DLC included, I think of this even more fondly than I did when I first experienced it. When I played the first time, it was out of context. It was only the second Resident Evil game I played--after I finished Resident Evil's HD re-release on the PS4. And while I don't believe that RE7 matches the heights of some of the best entries of the series (RE4 and RE2 remake, particularly), after revisiting the Baker mansion now having played all mainline entries in the series I can feel safe in saying that 7 is top three in the series and (mostly) a return to form. Having finally flushed the franchise confusion of 5 and 6, 7 plays so classically for the majority of the experience that it coincidentally plays like a homecoming. And that's not to say there's some weird inclusions. The inability to skip cutscenes in a game that encourages replays is odd. The tone at times feels less like Resident Evil and more straight horror than the original run of games. And some of the structural design feels off--the game now has three third acts thanks to Not a Hero. Just when you think the game is over, it keeps going...and going. The first time through I was somewhat frustrated by this. I didn't know how to keep my expectations in check when I finish up the Baker estate only to be taken to a ship, feeling like this will likely be the last area, only then to be taken back to the Baker estate (albeit briefly). But on the second time through, knowing that it's coming it feels much more organic. And that's good. But I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the smattering of DLC offered now in RE7. It's kind of all over the place, ranging from arcade horde experiences to boring filler to genuinely interesting game design (Bedroom RULES) to entirely new campaigns. Getting the season pass on sale as I did was totally worth while. I loved Bedroom and Not a Hero and thought Daughters and End of Zoe were interesting; 21 is the most half-assed piece of filler for DLC I think I've ever seen. But as a whole package, DLC included, Resident Evil 7 is perhaps quintessential and the most perfect distillation of the franchise to date, from straight horror to bonkers plot twists to absolutely hysterical action oriented gameplay. If you're ever interested to know whether or not you really like Resident Evil, look no further than here. And I can safely say that I love it. Pumped for Village.