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Capcom's recent update to the iOS and iPadOS versions of Resident Evil 7 biohazard, Resident Evil 4 Remake, and Resident Evil Village has introduced a controversial change: mandatory online DRM. While updates often improve optimization or compatibility, this one requires an internet connection to verify ownership before launching the game. This means offline play is no longer possible. Previously, these premium-priced ports were playable offline. The new DRM presents a purchase verification screen on launch; selecting "no" closes the application. While online verification takes only a few seconds, the loss of offline functionality is a significant drawback.
Testing confirmed that offline play was possible before this update. Now, the online check is unavoidable. This is a disappointing development for players who purchased the games expecting offline access. While some may not be affected, the forced online DRM negatively impacts the user experience and makes recommending these otherwise excellent ports more difficult. Hopefully, Capcom will reconsider this implementation or find a less intrusive method of purchase verification.
The games remain free to try. Download links: Resident Evil 7 biohazard (iOS, iPadOS, macOS), Resident Evil 4 Remake (App Store), and Resident Evil Village (App Store). Reviews can be found here, here, and here. What are your thoughts on this update and the inclusion of this always-online DRM?
