Capcom Revamps RE Series on iOS

TouchArcade Rating: While updates for premium mobile ports often improve optimization or compatibility, Capcom's recent update (released an hour ago) for Resident Evil 7 biohazard, Resident Evil 4 Remake, and Resident Evil Village on iOS and iPadOS introduces unwelcome 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 the check takes only a few seconds with an internet connection, it renders all three titles unplayable offline – a significant drawback compared to their previous offline functionality.

Pre-update testing confirmed offline playability. Post-update, the aforementioned alert appears, forcing online verification on every launch. This is a frustrating change for paying customers. While some may not be affected, the addition of this always-online DRM negatively impacts the games' value proposition. Hopefully, Capcom will implement a less intrusive purchase verification method, perhaps checking less frequently. This situation unfortunately diminishes the recommendation of Capcom's premium iOS ports.

For those undecided, free trials are available. You can 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. My reviews can be found here, here, and here. Do you own these Resident Evil titles on iOS? What are your thoughts on this update?