This week, Capcom held a digital showcase for Resident Evil Village, the eighth main entry in the action-horror franchise. Key details about the game, including its release date and story, were shared along with the surprise drop of a demo.
Resident Evil Village is slated to release worldwide on May 7, 2021. It was previously announced for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam (PC), but it was revealed during the stream that it will also be coming to PS4 and Xbox One. Capcom will be offering a free upgrade option from the PS4 version to the digital PS5 version and it will also support Microsoft's Smart Delivery feature for Xbox consoles.
Fans were also treated to new footage from Resident Evil Village, which continues the story of Ethan Winters,w home we first met in Resident Evil 7 biohazard. Gameplay revealed several new features available to Ethan, including the ability to purchase and sell items, buy recipes for crafting, and customize weapons with a merchant. Players are also able to craft consumables using materials found throughout the game. Many of these new features harken back to the survival-action roots of previous Resident Evil games, but expand and improve upon them.
In addition to the strategic planning that's required when utilizing these consumables, the varying nature of the diverse set of enemies in Resident Evil Village means players will have to adapt their strategies and make quick decisions in terms of attacking, guarding, or fleeing encounters. During these heart-pounding moments, players can make use of the new kick move that allows Ethan to create some separation between him and an enemy and allow players some extra time to decide on their next move.
In addition to the main storyline, Resident Evil Village will also include access to a free multiplayer experience, Resident Evil Re:Verse. Pre-orders for Resident Evil Village are available with the usual options for Collector's Edition versions of the game.
The Deluxe Edition includes the base game and a digital “Trauma Pack,” which consists of additional in-game content including a Samurai Edge weapon, Resident Evil 7 biohazard inspired found footage screen filter and tape recorder save point options, immediate access to an especially challenging difficulty setting, and more. The physical Collector’s Edition includes the digital Deluxe Edition content plus a striking statue of franchise veteran Chris Redfield, a SteelBook case, art book, and a cloth map of the village with key art printed on the reverse side.
Those of you who own a PlayStation 5 can actually download the stand-alone Maiden demo, which provides a sneak peek the mysterious Castle Dimitrescu.
As the Maiden, players will need to rely solely on their wits to make their escape in this tension-filled demo, as they’ll have no way to fight or defend themselves.
A separate new demo will be available for all platforms later this spring. In the meantime, check out the new Resident Evil Village trailer or watch the entire digital showcase below.