Capcom’s Resident Evil 7 boasts Playstation VR compatibility making it one of a few AAA VR gaming experiences. It has to be said, since launching last year Playstation VR has needed a killer game to entice the masses into its fold, to show off what VR gaming is all about and frankly whilst there’s been some good VR experiences on offer the moment for a champion has arrived. Resident Evil 7 is a pretty full on game at the best of times with its all new first person viewpoint but playing in VR is something else. You’ll feel very vulnerable as lead character Ethan with the Baker mansion which takes on a life of its own.
Capcom’s sound team has done wonders with the sound effects too offering little touches that will keep you well on the edge of your seat. Imagine trying to hide and kicking tin cans as you shuffle about in the shadows drawing attention to yourself. The game is filled with neat audio touches like this when the heat is on.
The VR game is simply top quality here and it’s great to see a game that has high production values rather than the throwaway 30 minute experiences VR seems to have on offer in spades. Resident Evil 7 is simply a very different game in VR compared to its 2D counterpart as you’ll feel way more involved looking at everything around you, although it’s pretty choosy in who can play it. Sadly a number of eager participants fall foul of VR sickness despite a selection of control options to tinker with. Some will argue you need to play in short bursts and gain “VR legs” to be able to play these types of games. At the end of the day there will always be some people who just won’t be able to gel well with VR games of this type which is a shame because Resident Evil 7 VR is an outstanding achievement and should be viewed as one of the pioneering games for the Playstation VR system. If you’ve got a PSVR and need a game that will engross you for hours on end then this is the must have VR game despite the horror theme not being suitable for all family members – unless you’re living with the Bakers of course.
Whilst you won’t “get” the VR vibe from the video below you can still see how one tentatively moves through the Baker mansion. Resident Evil 7 VR is part of the main game available now on PS4. The PC version is hoped to receive a VR update in one year from now which could include some extras.
