Resident Evil 5: Desperate Escape Review (Xbox Live/PlayStation Network)

The Desperate duo, fighting to stay alive.

We reviewed the first Resident Evil 5 add-on pack, Lost In Nightmares, a few weeks back, and while it’s a first-rate add-on for the series, we felt less than compelled by the routine puzzle solving we had to do throughout.  Fortunately, Capcom has opted to balance the load with its second add-on pack, Desperate Escape.  The monotonous dialogue and crank turning has been replaced by non-stop action, from the moment you start running to your final attempt at escape.

You play Jill Valentine, in a story arc that ties in with events from Resident Evil 5 after Chris and Sheva rescue you from Wesker’s captivity.  While they pursue him, you team up with fellow BSAA agent Josh Stone in an effort to escape the Tricell facility.  Unfortunately, with all hell breaking loose around you, that’s easier said than done.

Like we said, Desperate Escape doesn’t have an ounce of puzzle solving.  Instead, you’ll use your gun, knife and whatever other weapons you come across (the rocket launcher is definitely helpful) as you fend off angry natives, crazed chainsaw wielders and even the big axe man from the village.  These guys come at you in droves, too, so stay on high alert.  This is frenetic, thrilling stuff, and right up your alley if combat is your thing.

One word of caution – Desperate Escape is very hard.  Even if you choose the game’s lightest difficulty setting (Amateur), you’ll be put to the test here.  Within the first few seconds of the game, we were already dealing with two chainsaw wielders and their posse, while within a small space.  Thank goodness for all those Tricell explosive barrels, or we’d be getting nowhere fast.

In addition, we suggest playing Desperate Escape with a friend.  Trying to get through the game with an AI partner is a colossal task, if only because they’re pretty lame-brained.  One minute they’re using up all your ammunition, and the next, they’re knee deep in trouble.  Just because you successfully dodge the wrath of the chainsaw guys doesn’t necessarily mean they will.  With a friend through Xbox Live or the PlayStation Network, however, it’s a complete blast.

Capcom did an exceptional job with the game’s presentation.  Neither Josh nor Jill wear out their welcome with pithy dialogue, instead coming across with a tone of desperation.  The other sound effects are terrific as well, from the moaning enemies to the thunderous explosion noises.  The music continues to live up to the Resident Evil tradition as well, picking up the pace as the screen overflows with enemies.

So, you Resident Evil fans have the best of both worlds.  If you prefer something slow and tense, Lost In Nightmares is an ideal choice.  However, if it’s action you prefer, you can’t go wrong with Desperate Escape.  While the AI and difficulty may be more mounting than you expect, the sheer excitement and fun (especially with a friend) make it worth the $4.99 cost.  Lock and load.