None (Ethan Winters - Gameplay): For the vast majority of his playable sections, Ethan Winters fights alone. He does not have persistent AI companions that follow him or can be commanded in combat during his main story segments.
Hound Wolf Squad Members (Chris Redfield's Section - Temporary AI): During Chris Redfield's playable segment, he is accompanied by members of his Hound Wolf Squad (e.g., Canine, Lobo, Night Howl, Umber Eyes). They are AI-controlled and provide significant combat support with military-grade weaponry and tactics during these specific missions.
Human (BSAA Elite Soldiers)
Mia Winters & Rosemary Winters (Narrative Context): While central to Ethan's motivations, Mia and Rosemary do not act as gameplay companions for Ethan. Rosemary is an infant, and Mia's active role is primarily at the beginning and end of the game.
Human
Michael (Shadows of Rose DLC - Temporary Guide/Entity): In the 'Shadows of Rose' DLC, Rose is guided by a mysterious entity calling itself 'Michael,' which communicates through text appearing on surfaces. It provides hints and narrative direction but is not a physical companion.
Mysterious Entity (Megamycete Construct)
None (Gameplay - Colt's Perspective): Colt Vahn operates as a lone assassin throughout his attempts to break the loop. He does not have any AI companions that follow him or assist in combat during his playthrough.
Julianna Blake (Via Radio Comms & Invasions): While primarily an antagonist, Julianna is a constant presence via radio, engaging in witty, taunting, and sometimes informative banter with Colt. When she invades (as AI or another player), she acts as a direct, intelligent adversary, but not a companion.
Human (Visionary)
Themselves (Multiple Wenjies): Dr. Wenjie Evans has multiple versions of herself existing simultaneously in her lab due to time loop experiments. While these are all 'Wenjie' and act as enemies, they can sometimes interact with each other or be manipulated by Colt, creating a unique dynamic unlike traditional companions.
Human (Visionary Clones)
Key Collectibles
Files (Notes, Diaries, Documents, Reports): Numerous readable documents found throughout all areas. They provide rich backstory on the village's history, the Four Lords, Mother Miranda's experiments, the BSAA's involvement, Ethan and Mia's past, and general lore about the Resident Evil universe. Essential for understanding the full narrative.
Goats of Warding: 20 small, wooden goat effigies hidden in various locations across the village and its surrounding areas. They make a distinct clicking sound when nearby. Destroying all of them unlocks an achievement/trophy and Challenge Points for the Extra Content Shop.
Treasures (Crystal Fragments, Wooden Animals, Combineable Treasures, etc.): Valuable items that can be found hidden in the environment, dropped by certain enemies, or in locked areas. These can be sold to The Duke for Lei (in-game currency). Some treasures consist of multiple parts that can be combined to create a more valuable item (e.g., Dimitrescu's Necklace, Moreau's Hidden Weapon).
Weapon Parts (Attachments): Found in specific locations, often in locked cases or hidden areas, or purchased from The Duke. These attachments (e.g., scopes, stocks, extended magazines, compensators) can be equipped to weapons at The Duke's Emporium to improve their stats or functionality.
Cooked Meals Ingredients (Fish, Poultry, Meat - Quality Tiers): Animals like fish, chickens, pigs, and goats can be hunted in the village and surrounding areas. They drop different qualities of meat. These ingredients are given to The Duke to cook special meals that provide permanent upgrades to Ethan's maximum health, blocking defense, or movement speed.
Outhouse Puzzles (Hidden Items): Many outhouses in the village have a small item hidden inside, often requiring a lockpick or a specific angle to see and shoot down. These usually contain ammo or minor resources.
Labyrinth Puzzles & Balls: Each of the Four Lords' main areas (and the village) contains a Labyrinth Puzzle model. Ethan must find a corresponding metal ball (e.g., Crimson Skull, Black Goat) and guide it through the miniature labyrinth to obtain a valuable Crystal Treasure.
Slabs & Slab Upgrades: Slabs (supernatural powers) are initially acquired by assassinating the Visionary who possesses them. Slab Upgrades are earned by defeating that Visionary again in subsequent loops, or by defeating an invading Julianna who is using that Slab. These upgrades enhance the functionality of each Slab (e.g., Shift can be upgraded to allow hovering or reaching further).
Trinkets (Character & Weapon): Found throughout Blackreef in containers, on Eternalists, or as rewards for completing small objectives or puzzles. Character Trinkets provide passive buffs to Colt (e.g., increased health, double jump, faster movement). Weapon Trinkets enhance firearms (e.g., faster reload, increased accuracy, silenced shots, elemental bullets).
Residuum: A shimmering energy resource collected from glowing objects, downed Visionaries, or by sacrificing unwanted Infused gear. Used at the end of each time period (Morning, Noon, Afternoon, Evening) to 'Infuse' weapons, Slabs, and Trinkets, allowing them to be carried over to the next loop. Essential for permanent progression.
Documents (Notes, Letters, Schematics, Audiologs): Readable or listenable lore items found throughout all districts. They provide crucial backstory on the AEON Program, the Visionaries, Colt's past, Julianna's motivations, the nature of the time loop, and clues for assassinating targets or solving puzzles. Key to unraveling Blackreef's mystery.
Weapon & Gear Tiers (Common, Rare, Epic - Indicated by color): Weapons and some Trinkets can be found in different rarity tiers, with higher tiers often having more perk slots or better base stats. Colt will typically seek out higher-tier versions of his preferred gear.
Leads & Discoveries (Visionary Leads, Arsenal Leads): Information gathered by Colt that is tracked in his menu. Visionary Leads provide clues about targets' schedules, weaknesses, and how to manipulate events to line them up for assassination. Arsenal Leads point towards unique weapons or powerful Slabs/Trinkets.
Standard sidearms for general combat. Range from basic pistols to powerful magnums. Upgradable for damage, fire rate, capacity, etc. Some have unique properties or attachments.
Effective at close range, dealing high damage to unarmored or multiple enemies. Includes pump-action, tactical, and semi-automatic variants. Upgradable.
The FZ F2 is a bolt-action sniper rifle for long-range precision. During Chris Redfield's section, assault rifles like the Dragoon are used. Upgradable with scopes, stocks, etc.
Fires explosive rounds for area damage or flashbang rounds to stun enemies. Limited ammunition.
Knife: Melee (Utility/Last Resort)
Ethan's standard melee weapon. Used for breaking crates, finishing downed enemies, or as a last resort in combat. Not very effective against most enemies on its own.
Mines & Pipe Bombs: Craftable Explosives
Craftable throwable or deployable explosives. Pipe bombs are basic grenades, while mines can be set as traps.
Special/Story Weapons (e.g., specific weapons during boss fights or unique sections): Contextual / Unique
Certain sections or boss encounters may provide Ethan (or other playable characters like Chris) with unique or powerful weapons temporarily.
Chris Redfield's Arsenal (Target Locator, WCX Assault Rifle, Karambit Knife - Playable Section): Military Grade Weaponry
During Chris's playable segment, he has access to more advanced military weaponry, including an assault rifle with various attachments and a target locator for airstrikes.
Rose Winters' Powers (Shadows of Rose DLC - Not traditional weapons): Bio-Organic Abilities
In the 'Shadows of Rose' DLC, Rose uses powers derived from the Mold to destroy Mold Cores, stun enemies, and clear obstacles, rather than conventional firearms for most of the DLC.
Special named weapons with unique properties, appearances, and often powerful pre-set perks or functionalities (e.g., Strelak Verso transforms between dual pistols and an SMG, HALPS Prototype is a laser cannon). Acquired through specific quests, puzzles, or by killing Visionaries.
Machete: Primary Melee
Colt's default and always-equipped melee weapon. Used for stealth takedowns, breaking objects, and close-quarters combat. Can be infused for temporary buffs.
Grenades (Frag, Proximity): Throwable Explosive
Standard fragmentation grenades and proximity-triggered mines for area denial and dealing with groups.
Hackamajig: Utility Tool (Hacking)
Colt's device for hacking security systems, turrets, sensors, and distracting enemies. Can be upgraded via Trinkets.
Powerful abilities acquired from Visionaries. Shift (teleport), Aether (invisibility), Karnesis (telekinesis), Nexus (links enemies), Havoc (damage/defense buff), Fugue (confuses enemies). Each has multiple upgrades.
Armor / Gear Sets
No Equipable Armor System (Ethan Winters): Ethan Winters does not have an equipable armor system where players can find or upgrade different pieces of armor for direct stat boosts. His survivability is based on his base health (which can be permanently increased by eating specific cooked meals from The Duke's Kitchen), player skill in combat (blocking, dodging), and the use of healing items (First Aid Meds). Clothing changes are story-dictated and purely cosmetic.
Defensive Upgrades (The Duke's Kitchen): By providing The Duke with specific quantities of Fish, Poultry, and Meat obtained from hunting animals in the village, Ethan can have meals cooked that provide permanent upgrades to his maximum health, blocking defense, or movement speed. This is the primary way to increase his resilience.
Blocking Mechanic: Ethan can block incoming attacks with his arms or equipped weapon, significantly reducing damage taken. A well-timed block can sometimes stagger enemies. This is a core defensive skill.
No Traditional Armor System: Colt Vahn does not equip different pieces of armor with varying defensive stats. His survivability is primarily determined by his base health, which can be increased by specific Character Trinkets, and his skill in using Slabs (like Havoc for damage reduction or Aether for invisibility), stealth, and combat.
Character Trinkets (Defensive Perks): Colt can equip a limited number of Character Trinkets that provide passive buffs. Some of these offer defensive benefits, such as increased maximum health, faster health regeneration, damage resistance, or reduced damage from specific sources (e.g., falls, explosions). These function as his primary 'armor' system.
Slab Abilities (Defensive Uses): Certain Slabs, like Havoc (which absorbs damage and unleashes it), Aether (invisibility for evasion), or Shift (for quick escapes), provide significant defensive capabilities when used effectively.
Reprise Ability: Colt has a built-in 'Reprise' ability that allows him to die twice within a single district/time period before the loop fully resets for that district attempt. This acts as a form of extra lives or resilience.
Outfits/Customization
Ethan Winters' Attire: Ethan wears a consistent outfit throughout the main game (winter jacket, pants, etc.), which becomes progressively more tattered and bloodied as he endures hardships. There are no direct clothing customization options for Ethan in the story mode beyond these contextual changes. The Third-Person Mode added in the Winters' Expansion shows his full character model.
Chris Redfield's Attire: During his playable segment, Chris wears his signature Hound Wolf Squad tactical gear. This is fixed for his section.
Rose Winters' Attire (Shadows of Rose DLC): In the 'Shadows of Rose' DLC, teenage Rose wears a distinct outfit. Her appearance is fixed for her storyline.
Character Costumes (The Mercenaries Additional Orders / Unlockables): The Mercenaries mode and potentially other unlockable content (like through completing challenges or as part of Deluxe/Gold editions) may offer alternate cosmetic costumes for playable characters in those specific modes (e.g., different outfits for Chris, Lady Dimitrescu, Heisenberg in Mercenaries).
Colt Vahn's Attire (Default & Unlockable Skins): Colt has a signature default outfit (leather jacket, turtleneck). Players can unlock additional cosmetic skins for Colt through game progression, special editions (e.g., 'Party Crasher' skin), or updates. These change his appearance but offer no gameplay advantages.
Julianna Blake's Attire (Default & Unlockable Skins): Julianna also has a default outfit and can unlock additional cosmetic skins for when she is player-controlled in the 'Protect the Loop' mode (e.g., 'Sharp Shooter' skin).
Weapon Skins (Limited): Some unique or Deluxe Edition weapons come with specific skins. A broader weapon skin customization system is not a primary feature, though Trinkets can sometimes alter weapon appearance slightly or add visual effects.
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World & Exploration
Playable Vehicles
Tractor (Briefly, Cutscene/Scripted): Agricultural Land Vehicle
Ethan briefly uses a tractor during an escape sequence early in the game, but it is a scripted event rather than a freely controllable vehicle.
Boat (Moreau's Reservoir): Small Motorboat / Watercraft
Used by Ethan to navigate the flooded areas of Moreau's Reservoir while being pursued by the transformed Salvatore Moreau. Control is primarily for navigation and evasion during this specific segment.
Makeshift Tank / Vehicle (Heisenberg's Factory - Boss Fight): Improvised Combat Vehicle
During the boss fight against Karl Heisenberg, Ethan pilots a makeshift, heavily armed vehicle created by Chris Redfield to counter Heisenberg's metallic form. Control is specific to this boss encounter.
Traversal on Foot (Walking, Running, Sprinting, Crouching): Player Locomotion
Primary mode of movement. Ethan can walk, run (limited by stamina that isn't explicitly shown but implied by breathlessness), sprint for short bursts, and crouch for stealth or navigating low passages.
No Player-Controlled Vehicles (General Traversal)
Colt Vahn primarily traverses the districts of Blackreef on foot, utilizing his parkour-like agility and supernatural Slab abilities (like Shift for teleportation). There are no player-drivable cars, bikes, or other traditional vehicles for general exploration within the districts.
Colt travels between the four main districts (Updaam, Karl's Bay, Fristad Rock, The Complex) and advances the time of day (Morning, Noon, Afternoon, Evening) by returning to his underground tunnels/bunker and selecting his next destination and time slot from a map interface. This transition involves a loading screen and is how the 'loop' progresses from one segment to the next.
Contextual Traversal Aids (e.g., Ramps for Sliding, Cranes, Rooftops): Environmental Elements
Levels are designed with verticality and interconnectedness, featuring environmental elements like ramps for sliding, rooftops for parkour, cranes, or other structures that Colt can interact with or use to his advantage for traversal and stealthy approaches.
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Story & Characters
Main Characters
Ethan Winters: Protagonist
The returning protagonist from Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. A civilian desperately searching for his kidnapped infant daughter, Rosemary, which leads him to a mysterious and hostile village in Eastern Europe. He endures immense physical and psychological trauma throughout his ordeal.
Mia Winters: Supporting Character / Ethan's Wife
Ethan's wife and Rosemary's mother. Her apparent death at the beginning of the game sets Ethan on his quest. Her past connections to The Connections and bioweapons are relevant.
Rosemary 'Rose' Winters: Key Character / Ethan's Daughter / Playable in 'Shadows of Rose' DLC
Ethan and Mia's infant daughter, who possesses unique abilities due to her parents' exposure to the Mold. She is kidnapped by Chris Redfield, and her rescue is Ethan's primary motivation. Playable as a teenager in the 'Shadows of Rose' DLC.
Chris Redfield: Supporting Character / Antagonist Figure (Initially) / BSAA Operative
A recurring hero from the Resident Evil series. He appears to act antagonistically at the start of Village, but his true motives and mission are gradually revealed. Leads the Hound Wolf Squad. Playable in a short segment of the main game and as a character in The Mercenaries.
The Duke: Ally / Merchant
An enigmatic and surprisingly jovial, obese merchant who appears in various locations throughout the village. He sells weapons, ammunition, crafting recipes, weapon upgrades, and cooks meals for Ethan that provide permanent stat boosts. Offers cryptic advice and assistance.
Mother Miranda: Main Antagonist / Village Cult Leader
The supreme leader of the village and the Four Lords. A powerful bioweapon researcher who seeks to use Rosemary to resurrect her own deceased daughter, Eva. She is the source of the Mold and the mutations in the region.
Lady Alcina Dimitrescu: Antagonist / One of the Four Lords
The towering, aristocratic mistress of Castle Dimitrescu. A vampiric figure with immense strength and retractable claws, she rules her domain with her three daughters. Became a viral sensation due to her height and design.
Karl Heisenberg: Antagonist / One of the Four Lords / Potential Rebel
A charismatic and rebellious lord with the power to manipulate metal (ferrokinesis). He operates a factory producing cybernetic soldiers (Soldats). He has his own agenda and offers Ethan a chance to join him against Miranda.
Donna Beneviento & Angie: Antagonist / One of the Four Lords
A reclusive doll maker who communicates through her sentient puppet, Angie. Her domain, House Beneviento, focuses on psychological horror, hallucinations, and puzzles rather than direct combat.
Salvatore Moreau: Antagonist / One of the Four Lords
A grotesque, fish-like mutant lord with low self-esteem, desperate for Miranda's approval. He controls a reservoir and can transform into a colossal aquatic monster.
Elena & Leonardo Lupu: Supporting Characters / Villagers
Survivors Ethan encounters in the village. Elena tries to help Ethan but faces tragic circumstances with her father, Leonardo.
The Hag (Old Crone): Supporting Character / Narrator Figure
An elderly, mysterious villager who appears at various points, offering cryptic warnings, lore, and seemingly observing Ethan's journey.
Colt Vahn ('The Captain'): Protagonist / Assassin
The main playable character. An assassin trapped in a time loop on Blackreef with amnesia. He is determined to break the loop by assassinating the eight Visionaries. Known for his wisecracking personality and resourcefulness.
Head of security for the AEON Program and a Visionary. She is also trapped in the loop and actively hunts Colt to protect it, engaging in witty and often taunting radio conversations. Can be controlled by another player or AI.
Aleksis 'The Wolf' Dorsey: Visionary / AEON Program Financier
A hedonistic and narcissistic businessman who throws an extravagant wolf-themed party every night in Updaam. One of Colt's assassination targets.
Egor Serling: Visionary / AEON Program Scientist
A paranoid and eccentric scientist obsessed with self-experimentation and achieving breakthroughs, often found in The Complex or Fristad Rock conducting research.
Dr. Wenjie Evans: Visionary / AEON Program Lead Scientist
The brilliant but cold lead scientist behind the AEON Program and the time loop. Multiple versions of her exist simultaneously in her lab in The Complex due to her experiments.
Harriet Morse: Visionary / AEON Program 'Spiritual Leader'
A cult-like figure who preaches to the Eternalists in Karl's Bay, leading them in bizarre rituals.
Frank Spicer: Visionary / AEON Program Musician & Radio Host
A former rockstar who now runs Blackreef's radio station from his club in Fristad Rock. Known for his ego and elaborate security.
Charlie Montague: Visionary / AEON Program Game Designer
A game designer who has turned his district (Updaam) into a series of elaborate live-action role-playing games, often using Eternalists as participants.
Fia Zborowska: Visionary / AEON Program Artist & Archivist
An artist with a volatile temper, obsessed with a doomsday scenario. She has a secret bunker in Fristad Rock and a complicated relationship with Charlie Montague.
Eternalists (Generic NPCs): Inhabitants of Blackreef / Cultists
The general populace of Blackreef, devoted to the AEON Program and the time loop. They act as common enemies, often engaging in hedonistic or bizarre activities until alerted to Colt's presence.
Example Missions
Main Story Campaign (Ethan's Search for Rose)
A series of interconnected chapters following Ethan Winters' desperate journey through the titular village and the domains of the Four Lords (Castle Dimitrescu, House Beneviento, Moreau's Reservoir, Heisenberg's Factory) to rescue his kidnapped daughter, Rosemary, and confront Mother Miranda. Involves exploration, puzzle-solving, intense combat encounters, and boss battles.
Chris Redfield's Section
A segment of the main campaign where players take control of Chris Redfield as he leads his Hound Wolf Squad on a mission related to Mother Miranda and the Megamycete, showcasing more action-oriented gameplay with military weaponry.
Puzzle Solving (Key Items, Environmental Puzzles)
Throughout the game, Ethan must find key items (e.g., specific keys, crests, tools like the Well Wheel or Crank) and solve environmental puzzles to progress, unlock new areas, or access valuable loot. This includes tasks like finding mask fragments in Castle Dimitrescu or navigating the non-combat horror sequences in House Beneviento.
Boss Battles (Four Lords, Miranda, Mini-Bosses)
Confront and defeat the unique and often multi-phase bosses that guard the end of each major area or serve as significant story encounters. This includes fighting each of the Four Lords in their transformed states and ultimately Mother Miranda.
Optional Exploration & Treasure Hunting
Explore optional paths, hidden rooms, and side areas within the main locations to find valuable treasures (which can be sold to The Duke), weapon parts, crafting resources, files, and Goats of Warding. Some treasures require solving small puzzles or finding combineable parts.
The Duke's Kitchen (Hunting & Upgrades)
Hunt animals (fish, poultry, meat) found in the village and surrounding areas. Bring the ingredients to The Duke, who can cook special meals that provide permanent upgrades to Ethan's maximum health, blocking defense, or movement speed.
Shadows of Rose Story Campaign (DLC)
A new narrative campaign played as a teenage Rosemary Winters. She enters the Megamycete's consciousness to find a way to rid herself of her powers, facing surreal environments, new enemies (Face Eaters, Molded), and exploring her connection to the Mold. Played entirely in third-person.
The Mercenaries / The Mercenaries Additional Orders (Game Mode)
An arcade-style score attack mode. Players choose a character (Ethan, Chris, Lady Dimitrescu, Heisenberg) and fight through waves of enemies across various stages within a time limit, aiming for high scores by chaining kills and utilizing character-specific abilities and weapons. Unlocks new stages and potentially in-game rewards.
Visionary Leads (Assassination Storylines)
The core progression involves pursuing 'Visionary Leads' for each of the eight targets. These are multi-step investigations across different districts and times of day, where Colt uncovers clues about a Visionary's schedule, habits, weaknesses, relationships, and potential ways to manipulate events to make them vulnerable or gather them with other targets. Completing these leads allows Colt to set up the 'perfect loop' to eliminate all targets in one day.
Arsenal Leads (Weapon & Slab Acquisition)
Specific leads that guide Colt towards acquiring powerful unique weapons, Slabs (supernatural powers from Visionaries), or significant Slab upgrades. These often involve solving puzzles, infiltrating specific locations at certain times, or defeating a Visionary for the first time.
Discoveries & Side Puzzles
Numerous smaller optional tasks, environmental puzzles, hidden safes, or mini-stories found by exploring Blackreef. These can reward Colt with valuable Trinkets, weapons, Residuum, lore documents, or open up new pathways and opportunities within a district.
Breaking the Loop (The Final Day)
Once Colt has gathered all necessary information and set up the required conditions by manipulating events in previous loops, he can attempt the 'final day' sequence. This involves executing a precise plan to assassinate all eight Visionaries across the four districts and time periods, culminating in a final confrontation or decision to break the time loop.
Protect the Loop (Playing as Julianna - Online PvP)
When playing as Julianna, the objective is to invade another player's (Colt's) game session and hunt them down. Julianna wins by killing Colt enough times to force him to reset his current district attempt. She has her own progression, loadouts, and can use map knowledge and traps to her advantage.
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Multiplayer
Multiplayer Details
The base game of Resident Evil Village is single-player only. 'The Mercenaries' is an arcade-style, single-player score attack mode. The multiplayer game 'Resident Evil RE:Verse' was intended to launch alongside Village as a free pack-in but was delayed and released later as a separate entity.
1. Protect the Loop (Online PvP): Players can choose to invade another player's game (who is playing as Colt) as Julianna Blake. Julianna's objective is to hunt down and kill Colt, protecting the time loop. She has her own progression, loadouts, and abilities. This mode can also be set to 'Friends Only' or 'Offline' (where Julianna is AI-controlled). 2. Single-Player Campaign (as Colt): The primary mode where players control Colt Vahn, attempting to assassinate the eight Visionaries and break the time loop, while also being hunted by an AI or player-controlled Julianna.
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Editions & DLC
Available Editions
Available in Standard Edition, Deluxe Edition (Trauma Pack with 'Samurai Edge' weapon, Mr. Everywhere weapon charm, found footage filter, save room music, additional difficulty mode 'Village of Shadows'), Collector's Edition (Deluxe content + Chris Redfield statue, SteelBook, artbook, cloth map, Trauma Pack). A 'Gold Edition' was released later, bundling the base game with the 'Winters' Expansion' (Shadows of Rose DLC, Third-Person Mode for main campaign, The Mercenaries Additional Orders).
Available in Standard Edition and Deluxe Edition. Deluxe Edition included unique weapons (Transtar Trencher, Eat The Rich Tribunal, .44 Karat Fourpounder), character skins ('Party Crasher' Colt, 'Sharp Shooter' Julianna), and original soundtrack selections. Pre-order bonuses often included additional cosmetic items or trinkets.
Post-Launch Content / DLC
The 'Winters' Expansion' was the major post-launch DLC. It includes: 'Shadows of Rose' (a new story chapter playing as a teenage Rose Winters with unique powers), Third-Person Mode for the main campaign, and 'The Mercenaries Additional Orders' (new characters like Chris, Heisenberg, Lady Dimitrescu, and stages for the arcade mode).
A major free update, 'GOLDENLOOP,' was released, adding a new powerful weapon (HALPS Prototype), a new ability (Fugue Slab - makes enemies confused), new enemy types (Paint-Bomber Eternalist), an extended ending, new Trinkets, and cross-play for PvP. No major paid story expansions have been released.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Resident Evil Village a direct sequel to Resident Evil 7: Biohazard? A: Yes, Resident Evil Village directly continues the story of Ethan Winters and his wife Mia, set a few years after the events of Resident Evil 7.
Q: Do I need to play Resident Evil 7 before Village? A: It is highly recommended. Village heavily references characters, events, and themes from RE7. While there's a brief recap, playing RE7 first provides crucial context for Ethan's motivations and the overarching story.
Q: Is Resident Evil Village in first-person or third-person? A: The main campaign of Resident Evil Village is played in first-person. However, the 'Winters' Expansion' DLC added an optional Third-Person Mode for the main story, allowing players to experience it from an over-the-shoulder perspective.
Q: Who are the Four Lords? A: The Four Lords are a group of mutated individuals who rule different territories surrounding the village, all serving Mother Miranda. They are Lady Alcina Dimitrescu (vampiric mistress of a castle), Karl Heisenberg (engineer with magnetic powers and a factory), Donna Beneviento (reclusive doll maker controlling hallucinations), and Salvatore Moreau (grotesque fish-like creature controlling a reservoir).
Q: What is The Mercenaries mode? A: The Mercenaries is an arcade-style, score-based bonus mode unlocked after completing the main story. Players choose a character and must defeat waves of enemies across various stages within a time limit, chaining combos and utilizing character-specific abilities to achieve high scores and unlock rewards. The 'Additional Orders' DLC added more characters and stages.
Q: What is 'Shadows of Rose'? A: 'Shadows of Rose' is a story DLC included in the 'Winters' Expansion'. It is set 16 years after the main game and follows a teenage Rosemary Winters as she delves into the consciousness of the Megamycete to find a way to remove her unwanted powers. It is played in third-person.
Q: What is the main objective in DEATHLOOP? A: The main objective is to break the time loop by assassinating all eight Visionaries on Blackreef island within a single day. This requires investigating their routines, finding ways to get them in the same place or eliminate them efficiently across four time periods (Morning, Noon, Afternoon, Evening) in four different districts.
Q: How does the time loop mechanic work? A: The day on Blackreef resets at the end of the Evening, or if Colt dies three times within a single district visit (his 'Reprise' ability allows two revivals). When the loop resets, non-Infused weapons, Slabs, and Trinkets are lost, and Visionaries/Eternalists respawn. However, Colt retains all learned information (Leads) and any gear he has 'Infused' with Residuum.
Q: What is Infusion and Residuum? A: Residuum is a resource Colt collects from glowing objects or by sacrificing gear. Between time periods (e.g., when returning to his bunker), Colt can spend Residuum to 'Infuse' weapons, Slabs, and Trinkets he wants to keep. Infused items will carry over to subsequent loops, allowing for permanent progression of his loadout.
Q: Can another player really hunt you as Julianna? A: Yes, DEATHLOOP features an optional online multiplayer mode called 'Protect the Loop.' If enabled, another player can invade your game as Julianna Blake, with the objective of killing Colt. You can also set this to 'Friends Only' or 'Offline' (where an AI Julianna will invade).
Q: Are Slabs like Dishonored's powers? A: Yes, Slabs are very similar to the supernatural powers found in Arkane's Dishonored series. They grant unique abilities like teleportation (Shift), invisibility (Aether), telekinesis (Karnesis), linking enemies (Nexus), and a combat buff (Havoc). They are acquired from Visionaries and can be upgraded.
Q: Is DEATHLOOP connected to the Dishonored universe? A: While not officially confirmed as a direct sequel or prequel, there are numerous fan theories and subtle hints within DEATHLOOP (and Dishonored: Death of the Outsider) that suggest a possible connection or shared multiverse between the two Arkane franchises. However, DEATHLOOP can be fully enjoyed as a standalone story.
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Technical Details
Graphics & Visual Fidelity
Powered by Capcom's RE Engine, Resident Evil Village boasts stunning visuals with highly detailed environments, lifelike character models (especially the Four Lords), and advanced lighting and shadow effects. The game features distinct visual styles for each lord's domain, from the gothic opulence of Castle Dimitrescu to the grotesque organic horror of Moreau's Reservoir. Ray tracing options (Global Illumination, Reflections) are available on PC and current-gen consoles, significantly enhancing visual fidelity.
Developed on Arkane's Void Engine, DEATHLOOP features a striking art style inspired by 1960s aesthetics, with bold colors, psychedelic patterns, and retro-futuristic designs. Blackreef's districts are visually distinct and detailed. The game uses stylized character models and environments, focusing on artistic direction over photorealism, though with high technical fidelity.
Audio & Soundtrack
Original score composed by Shusaku Uchiyama, Nao Sato, and Marcin Przybyłowicz, featuring a blend of orchestral horror themes, tense ambient tracks, and folk-inspired melodies reflecting the Eastern European setting. Sound design is crucial for horror atmosfére, with distinct enemy vocalizations (Lycans' howls, Dimitrescu's pursuit), environmental creaks, and impactful weapon sounds. The game uses binaural audio for enhanced spatial awareness.
Original score composed by Tom Salta, with contributions from other artists like Sencit Music and Erich Talaba. Features a distinctive soundtrack blending 1960s spy thriller themes, psychedelic rock, jazz, and electronic elements, creating a unique and memorable audio identity. In-game licensed tracks also feature. Sound design is crucial for detecting enemies, environmental cues, and the distinct sounds of Slabs and special weapons.
User Interface (UI/UX)
Features a first-person HUD displaying health (electrocardiogram style), ammo count, and equipped item. Inventory management is grid-based, similar to Resident Evil 4, accessible in real-time (though the game often pauses when accessing the full inventory screen). A map helps with navigation, marking key items, save points (typewriters), and locked doors. Crafting is done via a dedicated menu.
Features a stylish, 1960s-inspired HUD displaying health, power (for Slabs), equipped weapons/Slabs, and objective markers. A leads system helps track clues and Visionary movements across districts and times of day. Menus for loadouts, Slabs, Trinkets, discoveries, and objectives are accessible. Colt's inner monologue and interactions with Julianna provide constant narrative and guidance.
Accessibility Options
Offers a range of accessibility options, including customizable controls (PC), extensive subtitle and caption customization, options for aim assist, display adjustments for brightness and contrast, options to reduce camera wobble, and various audio settings. A third-person mode was added in the Winters' Expansion, which can also be an accessibility aid for some players.
Offers a range of accessibility options, including customizable controls (PC), extensive subtitle and caption customization, options for aim assist strength, adjustable UI element size, colorblind modes, options to reduce head bob/motion blur, and various gameplay toggles for difficulty and HUD elements.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile (8GB) / RTX 3060 Mobile (6GB, High TGP). **An RTX 3070 Mobile or RTX 4060 Mobile (High TGP) is a good target for 1080p High 60FPS.**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 30 GB SSD
1080p (Full HD) - Recommended (1080p ~60 FPS, Prioritize Graphics/High Preset, No Ray Tracing)(Prioritize Graphics Preset / High Settings, Ray Tracing OFF)
CPU: Recommended desktop CPU for 1080p/60FPS High settings.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated mid-range to high-end laptop CPUs.
GPU: Recommended desktop GPU for 1080p/60FPS High.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated performance-focused laptop GPUs. 6-8GB VRAM crucial.
RAM: 16GB RAM strongly recommended.
Storage: SSD strongly recommended.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile (6GB, High TGP) / RTX 3060 Mobile (6GB, High TGP). **An RTX 3070 Mobile or RTX 4060 Mobile (High TGP) is a good target for 1080p High/Max 60FPS.**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 35 GB SSD
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1080p (Full HD) - Minimum (1080p ~45-60 FPS, Prioritize Performance Preset, No Ray Tracing)(Prioritize Performance Preset / Low-Medium Settings, Ray Tracing OFF)
CPU: Minimum desktop CPU for playable framerates.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop CPU equivalent. Newer i5/Ryzen 5 H-series recommended.
GPU: Minimum desktop GPU.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop GPUs. 4GB VRAM is a tight minimum.
RAM: Minimum RAM requirement.
Storage: HDD absolute minimum, SSD highly recommended.
memoryCPU: Intel Core i5-7500 or AMD Ryzen 3 1200
developer_boardGPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti (4GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon RX 560 (4GB VRAM)
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile (4GB) or AMD Radeon RX 5500M. **An RTX 3050 Mobile or RTX 4050 Mobile would be significantly better for consistent framerates and higher settings.**
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Mobile (6GB) / GTX 1650 Ti Mobile (4GB). **An RTX 3050 Mobile would be a better starting point for a smoother experience.**
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti Mobile (16GB, Max TGP) / RTX 4080 Mobile (12GB, Max TGP). **An RTX 4090 Mobile would be better. A hypothetical next-gen flagship (RTX 50-series) would provide a more comfortable native-like 4K experience. (Highly Speculative)**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 30 GB NVMe SSD
save Overall Storage
Spec: Approx. 35 GB available space (SSD Recommended). Size may increase with DLC. Note: An SSD is highly recommended for faster loading times and smoother transitions between areas. Type: SSD
Spec: 30 GB available space (SSD Recommended). Note: An SSD is highly recommended for faster loading times between districts and restarting loops. Type: SSD
desktop_windows Operating System
Spec: Windows 10 (64-bit required) Explanation: 64-bit Windows 10 or Windows 11 is required.
Spec: Windows 10 version 1909 or higher (64-bit) Explanation: 64-bit Windows 10 (specified version or newer) or Windows 11 is required.
gamepad DirectX Version
Spec: DirectX 12 Explanation: DirectX 12 API is required.
Spec: DirectX 12 Explanation: DirectX 12 API is required.
info_outline Other Game Notes
Official PC system requirements from Capcom. Performance can vary depending on specific hardware, settings, areas in-game (especially with many enemies or detailed environments), and background applications. An SSD is recommended for optimal performance. Ray tracing features are demanding.
Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs will require comparable performance, high TGP (Total Graphics Power), and excellent cooling. **Resident Evil Village can be demanding, particularly with ray tracing enabled or at higher resolutions.**
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent framerates, especially with RT.
Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: A decent CPU is needed for AI and physics.
Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports AMD FSR 1.0. Later versions of FSR or other upscalers like DLSS might be available via official patches or mods, especially with the Winters' Expansion.
Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing (Global Illumination, Reflections), Shadow Quality, Texture Quality, Volumetric Lighting, Ambient Occlusion, and Screen Space Reflections heavily impact performance. The game offers FidelityFX CAS for sharpening.
Game Name: Resident Evil Village
Official PC system requirements from Arkane Lyon/Bethesda. Performance can vary depending on specific hardware, settings, areas in-game (especially those with many NPCs or complex geometry), and background applications. An SSD is strongly recommended for optimal loading times within the loop structure.
Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs will require comparable performance, high TGP (Total Graphics Power), and good cooling. **DEATHLOOP can be demanding, particularly at higher settings or resolutions, due to its detailed environments and dynamic AI.**
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent framerates.
Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: A decent CPU is needed for AI pathfinding and managing the dynamic loop events.
Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports AMD FSR 1.0 & 2.0. NVIDIA DLSS support is not native but might be achievable via mods or driver-level settings for some users.
Upscaling Tech: Supports AMD FSR 1.0. Later versions of FSR or other upscalers like DLSS might be available via official patches or mods, especially with the Winters' Expansion.
Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing (Global Illumination, Reflections), Shadow Quality, Texture Quality, Volumetric Lighting, Ambient Occlusion, and Screen Space Reflections heavily impact performance. The game offers FidelityFX CAS for sharpening.
Upscaling Tech: Supports AMD FSR 1.0 & 2.0. NVIDIA DLSS support is not native but might be achievable via mods or driver-level settings for some users.
info_outline
Laptop recommendations are estimates based on available component benchmarks and game requirements.
Actual performance may vary depending on settings, drivers, cooling, power limits, etc.
Prices and availability subject to change. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.