Introduction
Marking its seventh installation in the infamous Resident Evil survival horror lineup, “Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles” is the first game tailored exclusively for the Wii system. This on-rails shooter confines movement and views, unlike its predecessors, where freedom to explore was celebrated. Chronicling the fall of the bioengineering giant Umbrella Corporation, the game revisits scenarios from various preceding titles. Divided into four primary chapters with ten different designs, the story wraps up a year before the events in “Resident Evil 4,” featuring an ensemble of characters, some old and some new.
GAMEPLAY: UNUSUAL CAMERA FLOATING AND MOVEMENT
The gameplay of “Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles” sets it apart from other titles in the series. Instead of the usual fixed camera angles, the camera seamlessly floats to various regions as the game advances. Players engage enemies on screen, acquiring ammo, weapons, and healing kits, giving them the tools they need to survive. The Wii controller plays a multifaceted role, serving as a melee weapon or in specific timed sequences. The controls, now that’s where the absolute horror lies – imagine trying to reload while a zombie is munching on your virtual arm!
MULTI-PATH LEVELS AND CHECKPOINTS
Not all is doom and gloom in the game, with some levels offering multiple paths and regular checkpoints to guide you through the horror-laden journey. It’s like a terrifying choose-your-own-adventure book, but instead of turning pages, you’re blasting zombies and avoiding mutant dogs. These elements add complexity, ensuring that even the most hardened Resident Evil veteran finds something fresh and exciting.
REWARD SYSTEM: STAR COLLECTION AND WEAPON UPGRADES
Who said shooting zombies couldn’t be rewarding? After each class in “Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles,” players are rewarded with stars, the shiny objects that make all the terrifying moments worthwhile. These stars can be traded for weapon upgrades, turning that old peashooter into a zombie-destroying machine. It’s retail therapy but with more blood and less guilt.
COOPERATIVE ACTION: BRING A FRIEND TO THE HORROR SHOW
\If solo zombie hunting is not your cup of tea, you can bring along a friend! The game supports cooperative action for up to two players and is compatible with the Wii Zapper. So grab a buddy, a couple of virtual guns, and embark on a gory road trip through the history of the Umbrella Corporation. Don’t blame the game if you dream about zombies for a week.
REVISITING OLD SCENARIOS: A NOSTALGIC HORROR TOUR
The plot of the game is like a horrifying trip down memory lane, revisiting scenarios from “Resident Evil Zero,” “Resident Evil,” “Resident Evil 2,” and “Resident Evil 3: Nemesis.” It’s a nostalgia-filled journey with more monsters and fewer hugs from Grandma. Characters like Chris Redfield, Jill Valentine, and their monstrous friends guide players through the macabre history of the Umbrella Corporation.
CONCLUSION: A UNIQUE ADDITION TO THE RESIDENT EVIL FAMILY
“Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles” presents a novel spin on the Resident Evil formula, offering a blend of on-rail shooting and fixed views. This Wii-exclusive title brings freshness to the series while retaining elements that made it beloved in the first place. Whether you’re a fan of melee combat, love playing with friends, or just want a fresh way to experience the series’ history, this game delivers the goods. Just remember, limit the mention of the name to just five times, or you may become a victim of the Umbrella Corporation!
