TouchArcade Rating:
Mobile premium game updates typically offer optimizations or compatibility improvements. However, Capcom's recent update for Resident Evil 7 biohazard (Free), Resident Evil 4 Remake (Free), and Resident Evil Village (Free) on iOS and iPadOS introduces an unwelcome change: online DRM. This DRM verifies purchase history upon game launch, checking for ownership of the game and any DLC. Refusal results in game closure. While this takes only seconds with an internet connection, it renders all three titles unplayable offline – a significant drawback from their previous offline functionality.
Pre-update testing confirmed offline playability. This update mandates online verification on every launch. While some may not object, the forced online DRM on already-purchased games is concerning. Hopefully, Capcom will revise their purchase verification method, perhaps implementing less frequent checks. This situation unfortunately diminishes the appeal of Capcom's premium mobile ports.
For those undecided, free trials are available. Download Resident Evil 7 biohazard on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS here. Resident Evil 4 Remake is available on the App Store here, and Resident Evil Village here. Read my reviews here, here, and here.
Do you own these three Resident Evil titles on iOS? What are your thoughts on this update?
