Prepare to enter the survival horror...

Of course I could start things off with a thesaurus full of words describing Resident Evil's graphics - but none of them would do the game justice. This game is not only one of the best-looking games available on the GameCube, but I would venture to say it's one of the best-looking games available on any system!

Stepping back from the 3D backgrounds used in Code Veronica, Resident Evil gets back to the true roots of the game. Every rendered background is almost like a mini-movie of details. Moths dart back and forth around dim lights, water ripples and splashes when it's disturbed - even the smallest blades of grass have some movement in them. Of course, you can't forget the requisite flashes and crashes of thunder and lightning. I could go on - but then I'd just be rambling.

Since the rooms are rendered, that means the camera position is fixed - but the angles are so well done that they not only keep the game playable, but keep the creep factor up as well. This does lead to moments where you won't see a zombie on the screen, but such a little thing is forgivable.

Character models are so well done, it's almost too creepy. Actually seeing the expressions on characters faces adds a whole new dimension and immersion to the game. You really begin to think the characters are scared for their lives. Again, I could go on - but it's something that mere words can't describe.

As if the graphics didn't make the game creepy enough, the sound only enhances it. The slow, moaning shuffle of zombies, the clicking of the dog's nails on the floor, and even the haunting piano melody in the background are all present - only now with a much cleaner and creepier sound.

This is not the Resident Evil that you played so many years ago. While it make take place in the same house and involve the same story - many of the original puzzles and events have been changed to not only make them scarier, but to keep even the most hardened of RE veterans on their toes. Therefore, forgive me if I don't go into more detail so as to not spoil things.

In addition to the new and reworked puzzles, RE features a few elements that are brand new to the series. The first is the inclusion of defensive weapons. RE players know that it's always a pain in the ass to try and shake zombies off once they attack you. Now when a zombie latches on to your character, you can use a special weapon to shake him off without the struggle - provided that you have one in your inventory. These weapons can range from a simple dagger to a grenade (which is conveniently stuck in the zombie's mouth), so always keep your eyes open for them. After unloading a few rounds of ammo into a zombie, they usually go down - unless it's one of RE's new baddies, the Crimson Heads. These zombies cannot be killed by normal means. After going down they get up and continue their pursuit until you either remove their head, or burn them. These enemies alone add a whole new element and strategy to the game.

The game's scoring system has also been reworked. Instead of keeping track of the number of times a player saved and how many healing items they used, everything is now based on completion time.

The only complaint I have with RE is the hurt it puts on your memory card. It's not as much of a problem as it is for Madden or All-Star Baseball, but it is a problem. Of course this is more Nintendo's fault than anyone else, but some blame does go to Capcom, especially when you consider the game shipped in Japan with a free card. I would recommend picking up either another memory card, or a larger one before playing.

Are you a hiker or a mountain climber? Knowing the answer to this question will determine how difficult your nightmare will be. One of the features of RE is that you can choose to play as either Chris or Jill. I personally recommend going through the game as Jill first, since her trip is made easier by the lock pick, more ammo, and a larger inventory.

Much of your trip's difficulty will be determined by how you manage your resources. Using every herb or first-aid spray you run across for the slightest of injuries will certainly spell a hard time down the road. The same goes for players looking to run through the game blasting away at anything that moves. Smart resource and inventory management is key.

This is something that has been an issue of debate. RE uses the 'classic' movement scheme and while I have no problems with it, I personally would have preferred something similar to Devil May Cry. To clear things up, I am not talking about the fast pacing of action, but having movement based on where my character is facing. Regardless, it's a minor squabble and really not worth the debate. Control is very well done and the actions lend themselves to the GameCube controller very well.

Bottom line, this is a game is a system seller (I know it's already sold at least one). Fans of the original who are fearing a simple rehash should rest easy knowing this is a whole new way to experience the original. New fans - well, welcome to the club.