Capcom Updates ‘Resident Evil 4′, ‘Resident Evil Village’, and ‘Resident Evil 7’ on iOS With Online DRM

TouchArcade Rating:

Mobile game updates often improve optimization or compatibility. However, Capcom's recent update for Resident Evil 7 biohazard, Resident Evil 4 Remake, and Resident Evil Village on iOS and iPadOS introduces an unwelcome change: online DRM. This DRM verifies your purchase history upon launching each game, requiring an internet connection to confirm ownership of the game and any DLC. Rejecting the check closes the application. While the verification process is relatively quick with an active internet connection, it completely eliminates offline play, a feature previously available. This is a significant drawback for players who previously enjoyed offline access to their purchased games.

Pre-update testing confirmed offline functionality. Post-update, the DRM prompt appears, and refusing the check terminates the game. While this may not bother all players, the forced online check is a negative addition to already purchased titles. Ideally, Capcom should find a less intrusive method for purchase verification, perhaps implementing checks 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? What are your thoughts on this update?