Usually, game updates are welcomed by players, whether for optimization or compatibility reasons. However, the latest update deployed by Capcom for Resident Evil 7 biohazard, Resident Evil 4 Remake and Resident Evil Village on iOS and iPadOS introduces an online DRM that checks the purchase history when launching the games. A small detail that could annoy more than one customer…
Resident Evil 4, Resident Evil 7 and Resident Evil Village
Specifically, the new version now performs a check at launch that determines whether you own the game or its DLC before allowing you to access the title screen. If you refuse this check, the game closes immediately. When connected to the Internet, it only takes a few seconds before you can resume your game, but it is now impossible to launch these three games offline. A sort of online DRM to prevent piracy.
This is not a problem most of the time, but if you play in poorly served areas or want to save battery life by activating airplane mode, for example, you will not be able to launch one of the three AAA titles from the Japanese publisher. We would have preferred a more intelligent system, detecting for example a change in the configuration of the iPhone or iPad (system update for example).
Players were quick to express their anger on Reddit, X and other social networks like Threads. Single-player games sold at premium prices, the pill is hard to swallow.
The quality of Resident Evil games at Apple
For the record, mobile ports of games resident Evil received mixed reactions upon their launch. On the one hand, Capcom was hailed for successfully bringing console gaming experiences to our iPhones and iPads (with a minimum M1 or A17 Pro processor). On the other, their high price and some gameplay issues (except on RE 7) quickly dampened fans’ enthusiasm. In the end, sales were poor, especially for games of the caliber of Resident Evil. The introduction of this online DRM, which blocks offline play, is likely to add to the frustration.
If you haven’t tried them yet, they’re available as a free trial. You can get Resident Evil 7 biohazard on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS below, or follow the links to our Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil Village reviews.
Download the free game RESIDENT EVIL 7 biohazard