In a private meeting with Capcom today, we were given the chance to try out Resident Evil 5 for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. As everybody knows, the immensely popular Resident Evil 4 was given several “Game of the Year” awards from many prominent gaming critics back when it first came out in 2005. The sequel to RE4 takes the radical changes found in that game and enhances them even further to create a title that looks and plays just beautifully.

The basic controls for Resident Evil 5 are very similar to those found in RE4 in that it is an over-the-shoulder 3rd person survival horror game. While RE4 looked incredible on the GameCube, Resident Evil 5 looks absolutely gorgeous on the 360 and PS3. The environments are incredibly detailed, making them seem that much more terrifying and foreboding. The swarms of enemies that charge after your character are each animated with such care that they seem like unique individuals rather than hollow, nameless masses.

As for the gameplay itself, it is both intense and fast paced, as you are thrown into dangerous situations with very intelligent enemies that greatly outnumber you. While you still are unable to run and shoot, I personally believe this staple mechanic to Resident Evil gameplay makes the game that much more intense.

One thing that has slightly changed from RE4 is impact your health status has on the way your character moves and performs. While Leon’s running speed greatly slowed as he took damage in RE4, Chris Redfield’s vision blurs, and his movement slows to a limp as his health reaches critical levels. This is where your partner, Sheva, comes into play.

Although it may initially look like this new character is RE5’s version of Ashley, Sheva actually proves to be a vital assistant both in combat and puzzle solving. If you are hurt, she will hurry to your side and use a health item on you to keep you alive. At one point in the game, you are unable to reach a high ledge, so you boost her up in order to help you move forward.

Finally, one other change that players will notice is the inventory screen. While Resident Evil 4 paused the game and took players out of the action when the inventory menu was pulled up, RE5 loads it right over the game itself, requiring you to switch weapons on the fly in the heat of battle. Once again, this only increases the tension and sense of urgency felt by the player.

Overall Resident Evil 5 is one of the most promising games I have played this year at E3. It is going to be an incredible experience once this game is released this March.

For more coverage of RE5, check out our videos above, and check back later this week for impressions from our other staff members.