Resident Evil 5 Is Not Scary

Caroline Mae

less than a minute read

·

06-01-2025

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Let's be honest, folks. Resident Evil 5, while a significant entry in the franchise and a commercial success, doesn't exactly scream "terrifying." While the series has always walked a fine line between survival horror and action, Resident Evil 5 firmly planted its feet on the action side. And that's okay! But let's not pretend it's a game built to induce genuine fear.

A Shift in Tone

Compared to its predecessors, particularly the claustrophobic horror of Resident Evil 1 and 2, Resident Evil 5 opted for a more expansive, albeit less frightening, approach. The oppressive atmosphere of the Spencer Mansion or Raccoon City is replaced with the sun-drenched (and often dusty) African landscape. This change of scenery dramatically impacts the game's overall tone.

Gone are the Jumpscares...Mostly

While jump scares still pop up occasionally, they lack the impact of those found in earlier titles. The increased focus on gunplay and co-op gameplay inherently diminishes the sense of vulnerability and isolation crucial to building genuine fear.

Action Over Atmosphere

Resident Evil 5 prioritizes intense action sequences and horde-clearing gameplay over atmospheric dread. The sheer number of enemies encountered often overwhelms any attempts to build suspense. While the Majini are certainly unsettling in their design, the sheer volume of them, combined with the readily available weaponry, dilutes the threat.

The Co-op Factor

The introduction of a fully featured co-op mode further lessened the fear factor. While playing alongside a friend can be fun, it significantly reduces the feeling of vulnerability and isolation – key ingredients of a truly scary game. The shared experience often translates to more laughter than screams.

A Fun Game, Not a Scary One

To be clear, Resident Evil 5 is a fun and engaging game. Its action-packed gameplay, expansive environments, and intriguing story make it a worthwhile experience. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that it's not a horror game in the traditional sense. The series clearly shifted gears, prioritizing action and co-op over the psychological horror that defined its earlier entries. Let's appreciate it for what it is: a thrilling action-adventure title, not a terrifying survival horror masterpiece.