Resident Evil 2 Nintendo 64 Vs Playstation: Which Version Is The Best?

The survival horror genre was revolutionized in 1998 with the release of Resident Evil 2. The game’s groundbreaking graphics, intense atmosphere, and gripping storyline captivated gamers worldwide, propelling it to become one of the best-selling games of all time. However, the game’s legacy was marred by a console war that divided fans: the Nintendo 64 vs. PlayStation debate. In this blog post, we delve into the depths of this rivalry, exploring the unique features, advantages, and drawbacks of each version, ultimately determining which console reigns supreme in the realm of Resident Evil 2.

Graphics:

The Nintendo 64 version of Resident Evil 2 boasted impressive 3D graphics for its time, with polygonal characters and environments that brought the game’s world to life. However, the PlayStation version took a different approach, opting for pre-rendered backgrounds and 3D character models, resulting in a more cinematic and immersive experience. While the Nintendo 64 version had smoother animations, the PlayStation version’s detailed textures and atmospheric lighting created a more realistic and haunting ambiance.

Gameplay:

The Nintendo 64 version of Resident Evil 2 featured tank controls, a control scheme that required players to hold a direction and then press a button to move, which could be cumbersome and challenging for some players. In contrast, the PlayStation version introduced analog controls, allowing for more precise and fluid movement, making the game more accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience. Additionally, the PlayStation version included an exclusive scenario called “The 4th Survivor,” which added a new perspective to the game’s story.

Sound:

Both the Nintendo 64 and PlayStation versions of Resident Evil 2 featured haunting and atmospheric soundtracks that perfectly complemented the game’s horror elements. The Nintendo 64 version’s music was composed by Masami Ueda and Shusaku Uchiyama, while the PlayStation version’s soundtrack was created by Masami Ueda and Syoji Mikami. Both soundtracks are considered masterpieces in the video game music world, adding to the overall immersive experience of the game.

Content:

The Nintendo 64 and PlayStation versions of Resident Evil 2 shared most of their content, including the main story, characters, and locations. However, there were some notable differences between the two versions. The PlayStation version included an exclusive scenario called “Extreme Battle,” which featured a series of timed challenges and boss fights. Additionally, the PlayStation version had a slightly longer ending than the Nintendo 64 version.

In a nutshell:

The Nintendo 64 and PlayStation versions of Resident Evil 2 were both groundbreaking games that left an indelible mark on the survival horror genre. While each version had its unique strengths and weaknesses, the PlayStation version ultimately emerged as the superior choice. Its superior graphics, more accessible controls, exclusive content, and longer ending made it the definitive way to experience Resident Evil 2. However, both versions remain classics in their own right and continue to be enjoyed by fans worldwide.

Additional Points of Comparison:

1. Load Times: The PlayStation version of Resident Evil 2 had significantly faster load times compared to the Nintendo 64 version, reducing the amount of time players spent waiting between areas.

2. Voice Acting: The PlayStation version of Resident Evil 2 featured fully voiced dialogue, while the Nintendo 64 version had no voice acting at all. This added an extra layer of immersion and realism to the PlayStation version.

3. Camera: The PlayStation version of Resident Evil 2 allowed players to control the camera, providing a more dynamic and immersive experience. The Nintendo 64 version had fixed camera angles, which could sometimes be limiting.

4. Sales: The PlayStation version of Resident Evil 2 outsold the Nintendo 64 version by a significant margin, becoming one of the best-selling games of all time. This is likely due to the PlayStation’s larger install base and the game’s superior graphics and gameplay.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Which version of Resident Evil 2 is better, the Nintendo 64 or PlayStation version?

• The PlayStation version is generally considered the superior version due to its superior graphics, more accessible controls, exclusive content, and longer ending.

2. Why did the PlayStation version of Resident Evil 2 have faster load times?

• The PlayStation had a faster CD-ROM drive than the Nintendo 64’s cartridge-based system, resulting in shorter load times.

3. Why did the PlayStation version of Resident Evil 2 have fully voiced dialogue?

• The PlayStation had more powerful sound hardware than the Nintendo 64, allowing for the inclusion of fully voiced dialogue.

4. Why did the PlayStation version of Resident Evil 2 sell more copies than the Nintendo 64 version?

• The PlayStation had a larger install base than the Nintendo 64, and the PlayStation version of Resident Evil 2 was generally considered the superior version.

5. Are there any other notable differences between the Nintendo 64 and PlayStation versions of Resident Evil 2?

• Yes, the PlayStation version included an exclusive scenario called “Extreme Battle,” and the Nintendo 64 version had a slightly shorter ending.