TouchArcade Rating:
Mobile premium game updates usually improve optimization or compatibility. 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 online DRM system. This DRM checks purchase history upon game launch, verifying ownership of the game and any DLC before proceeding to the title screen. Rejecting the check closes the game. This means constant online connectivity is now required, even to launch the games, unlike previous versions. This is a significant drawback, rendering the games unplayable offline.
Pre-update testing confirmed offline playability. Post-update, the DRM alert (or a similar message) appears, and declining the check terminates the game. While this may not bother everyone, the addition of this always-on DRM to already-purchased games is concerning. Ideally, Capcom should find a less intrusive method for purchase verification, perhaps performing the check less frequently. This update negatively impacts the recommendation of Capcom's premium mobile ports.
If you haven't purchased these titles, free trials are available. You can find 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 games on iOS, and what are your thoughts on this update?