The days of Resident Evil’s survival horror past really and truly seem to behind it at this stage. The indications were there as early as RE3 that the series was trying hard to take a more action oriented approach, but it wasn’t until RE5 that it became fully apparent. Operation Raccoon City is the logical culmination of that progression, as the series’ first fully-fledged, balls to the wall action shooter.

Another major shift in focus sees the player taking charge of a team of six Umbrella Security Service operatives – that’s right, the bad guys! Clearly wanting to make ORC stand out from the other RE titles, Capcom makes no apologies for its action centred focus, and their forthrightness is greatly appreciated. Rather than trying to hide behind the survival horror tag, ORC embraces its new freedom and just gets on with the business of blowing crap up.

If you’ve been tiring of the RE franchise, or simply want something to tide you over until RE6, then ORC is for you. With impressive settings, epic set pieces and host of series favourites making an appearance, ORC is a breath of fresh air for the series!