Resident Evil

TouchArcade Rating:

Mobile game updates often improve optimization or compatibility. However, Capcom's recent update for Resident Evil 7 biohazard (Free), Resident Evil 4 Remake (Free), and Resident Evil Village (Free) on iOS and iPadOS introduces an unwelcome change: online DRM. This DRM checks your purchase history upon game launch, verifying ownership of the game and any DLC. Refusal results in game closure. While the check takes only seconds with an internet connection, it renders all three titles unplayable offline – a significant drawback from their previous offline functionality.

Pre-update testing confirmed all three games launched and functioned offline. This update removes that capability. While some may not find this problematic, the forced online check on every launch is a negative for those who purchased the games. Ideally, Capcom should implement a less intrusive purchase verification method, perhaps checking less frequently. This update makes recommending Capcom's premium mobile ports more difficult.

If you haven't purchased these titles yet, free trials are available. You can find Resident Evil 7 biohazard on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS here. Resident Evil 4 Remake is available on the App Store here, and Resident Evil Village here. Read my reviews here, here, and here. Do you own these Resident Evil games on iOS? What are your thoughts on this update?