Just a quick mention about the RE5 demo that was released on Xbox LIVE yesterday. You may have already read some opinions about it. Here’s mine.

I think some people are missing the point of this demo. It’s VERY short and I don’t believe Capcom set out to frighten you at all. If anything, it’s to show off the new game play mechanics with the new addition of co-op and to get you acquainted with a couple of the game’s antagonists. Nothing more. No plot is given away, either. Why would Capcom ruin all the fun?

The co-op works pretty well. Chris and Sheva are able to swap items with each other, as well as view one another’s inventories and request items. One gripe that I have is the fact that you’re unable to divide ammo when sharing it. There are some moments where Chris must help Sheva reach certain areas that are inaccessible to both, whether to cover each other or to unlock doors. There’s a nice sense of teamwork going on. I’m sure the final game will see more reasons for splitting up (hopefully). The AI is a little weak, but the RE series has always included various difficulty settings, and I’m sure RE5 will be no exception.

For the most part the new controls feel good, but I think they still need some tweaking. For example, while I’m targeting Sheva, I’m unable to strafe around obstacles while running towards her. My movement feels restricted, odd and clunky. It seems the addition of strafing works more against the new controls than it does for it. Also, you will not be able to run or walk while shooting. Unfortunate to some, but I can understand why they made this decision. I don’t care what critics say, RE is NOT a run and gun type of game. On the plus side, you can still use a classic control scheme if you prefer that instead. Hopefully Capcom hears our cries and fixes some of these annoyances.

The graphics are pretty amazing and are the best in the series to date. The character models look super-realistic – everything from Chris and Sheva’s sweaty bodies to the horrifying look on the faces of the infected when in the clinch. The environment is pretty impressive as well. Though, as good as it all looks, I don’t think the demo will do the final product justice. Just a hunch.

Having recently watched the RE5 trailer from the Tokyo Game Show late last year, I’m really anxious to see how the story unfolds, especially with the apparent death of Jill Valentine.