Resident Evil 2: Dead Shot – A New Arcade Twist on Survival Horror

Resident Evil 2: Dead Shot – A New Arcade Twist on Survival Horror

Resident Evil 2: Dead Shot is a fresh, arcade-focused adaptation of Capcom’s 2019 remake of Resident Evil 2, emphasizing classic light gun shooter gameplay in a stand-up arcade cabinet. Developed by Capcom in partnership with Bandai Namco, the game currently remains in testing at select locations, notably the Namco Funscape in Romford, UK.

Gameplay Overview

Resident Evil 2: Dead Shot transforms the traditional survival horror structure into an on-rails shooter experience. In this format, players are automatically guided through Raccoon City's infested environments—such as the iconic police station—without controlling movement or camera direction themselves. Instead, the focus is entirely on fast reflexes and precision aiming, as players shoot through waves of zombies and monstrous threats that appear along the set path.

For controls, Dead Shot uses classic, handheld light guns (as opposed to the mounted models found in some newer arcade cabinets). Players physically aim at enemies on the screen and fire, and must manually reload their weapons by pointing the gun away from the display and pulling the trigger, which delivers a tactile, engaging arcade feel more reminiscent of classic light-gun games.

The cabinet supports cooperative play for up to two players, allowing both to play side by side as either Leon S. Kennedy or Claire Redfield. Together, they must coordinate their shots and reactions to survive the relentless assault, blending teamwork with classic arcade action to create an accessible and exciting experience for both newcomers and Resident Evil veterans.

Structure and Story

Resident Evil 2: Dead Shot employs an episode-based progression system that divides its narrative into five distinct chapters. In its current arcade test build, players can experience two of these episodes: a gripping prologue set within the Raccoon City Police Department (RPD) and a second installment aptly named “Hunted,” which raises the stakes with an encounter involving the menacing Mr. X. The story draws inspiration from the 2019 remake but is adapted for fast-paced arcade action, streamlining the original’s slower, more deliberate pacing in favor of immediate thrills and intensity. Instead of the detailed introductions found in the console game, Leon and Claire are thrust directly into survival mode, skipping over much of the exposition so the action can start right away. Each episode unfolds across multiple stages populated with increasingly challenging foes and culminates in a climactic boss battle, a structure that captures the classic crescendo of arcade light gun shooters while offering fans both a familiar and freshly intense Resident Evil experience.

Unique Features and Mechanics

Resident Evil 2: Dead Shot sets itself apart in the arcade scene with its unique stand-up enclosure, featuring a bass shaker floor that enhances immersion by vibrating with every in-game impact. Unlike most modern enclosed shooter cabinets, which opt for seating, Dead Shot requires players to stand, heightening the physical engagement and arcade atmosphere. Visually, the game draws heavily from the acclaimed 2019 Resident Evil 2 remake, faithfully recreating the eerie hallways of the Raccoon City Police Department, as well as populating the environment with nightmarish enemies such as lickers and zombie dogs. The experience is both gory and intense, boasting more graphic violence than earlier arcade shooters, in keeping with contemporary horror standards—though it doesn’t overwhelm players with endless zombie swarms, striking a careful balance between shock and playability. Audio-wise, fans will notice that the voice acting does not match the original cast, likely a result of the game’s distinct production path for arcades, but the overall sound design still delivers the necessary tension and urgency. Finally, Dead Shot employs a manual reloading mechanic: players reload their firearms by quickly aiming off-screen and pulling the trigger, a faster alternative to automatic reloading. This injects an extra burst of frantic, real-time strategy and keeps players on their toes throughout the relentless action.

Target Audience and Availability

The pick-up-and-play design of Resident Evil 2: Dead Shot allows it to appeal broadly to both casual arcade newcomers and long-time Resident Evil fans. Its cooperative gameplay—allowing pairs to team up as Leon and Claire—adds social and competitive appeal, making it especially attractive for friends, families, and competitive duos who enjoy sharing fast-paced arcade action. However, as of July 2025, the game's availability is significantly limited due to the rarity of arcades themselves. With Dead Shot currently released only in selected major cities and large entertainment venues as an early public test, access is far less widespread than with traditional Resident Evil games, which usually get a global console or PC launch. This limited rollout means that, despite its accessibility in gameplay, the actual chance for most fans to experience Dead Shot firsthand remains restricted for the foreseeable future.

Image Credits: Projekt Parasol/ Twitter

FAQs

Where can you play Resident Evil 2: Dead Shot?

Currently in location testing at Namco Funscape in Romford, UK, with wider rollout unconfirmed.

How is Dead Shot different from the 2019 Resident Evil 2 remake?

Dead Shot is an arcade-focused, on-rails shooter emphasizing reflexes and co-op, stripping away exploration and puzzle-solving.

Does Dead Shot include the full Resident Evil 2 story?

The arcade version condenses the story into episodic chapters, focusing on fast action rather than full narrative depth.