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

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 (Free), Resident Evil 4 Remake (Free), and Resident Evil Village (Free) on iOS and iPadOS introduces an unwelcome online DRM. This DRM checks purchase history upon game launch, verifying ownership before accessing the title screen. Rejecting the check closes the game. This requires an internet connection for every launch, eliminating offline play, a significant drawback from previous versions.

Pre-update testing confirmed offline functionality. Post-update, the online verification is mandatory. While some may not be bothered, this forced online DRM on already-purchased games is concerning. Ideally, Capcom would implement a less intrusive purchase verification method, perhaps checking less frequently. This update negatively impacts the recommendation of Capcom's premium mobile ports.

The games remain free to try. Download Resident Evil 7 biohazard on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS here. Get Resident Evil 4 Remake here and Resident Evil Village here on the App Store. Read my reviews here, here, and here. Do you own these Resident Evil titles on iOS? What are your thoughts on this update?