This Resident Evil 2 is a remake of the original game with the same title that came out 20 years and four console generations earlier. In terms of story and gameplay, the game tries to stay true to the original. Even reading collected notes and handling inventory items feels purposely outdated with less real-time feel to capture the original feel. The graphics are pretty much the main boost that separates this game from the original, and it runs on RE Engine. The story follows Leon S. Kennedy, a rookie police officer coming to work on his first day at Raccoon precinct. Alternate story follows Claire Redfield, who came to Raccoon city in search of her brother, Chris, who is also a S.T.A.R.S. team member. The game, just like the original, is intended to be played with both characters, where second playthrough with different character will unlock additional locations and complete the story. Thus the story works the same if played first as Leon and then Claire, or first as Claire and then Leon.
The gameplay offers real-time 3D graphics with shoulder camera and directional controls, unlike the original game that used fixed scenes with pre-rendered background and tank controls for the characters. Many locations and cut-scenes are recreated to match the original, though there are also entirely new areas included in this remake that the original game didn't feature. Completing the game unlocks new gameplay modes featuring other characters such as Hunk or Tofu Survivor.
By completing the game, players can unlock additional outfits and weapons for their chosen character, Leon or Claire. Some of these bonus outfits become available upon completing the main story, while others are unlocked through DLCs that add new content to the game. The game also features motion-capture technology for character facials, resulting in characters who look similar to their original counterparts.