Resident Evil Gaiden (USA)

What is Resident Evil Gaiden (USA)?

Resident Evil Gaiden (USA) is a non-canonical survival horror spin-off from the main Resident Evil series, developed by M4 Limited and Capcom for the Game Boy Color. Set aboard the ocean liner Starlight, the game follows veteran characters Barry Burton and rookie Leon S. Kennedy as they investigate a new Bio-Organic Weapon (B.O.W.) outbreak. This portable entry blends tense exploration with unique combat mechanics while retaining the franchise's signature atmosphere of dread.

Game Features

• Dual Protagonists: Switch between Barry Burton's experience and Leon S. Kennedy's agility
• Hybrid Combat System: Real-time first-person battles during enemy encounters
• Ship Exploration: Navigate the labyrinthine Starlight ocean liner filled with zombies and puzzles
• Resource Management: Conserve limited ammunition and healing items
• Unique Health Mechanic: Monitor character vitals via an on-screen heartbeat sensor
• GBC-Specific Visuals: Chilling pixel art environments optimized for handheld play

How to Play Resident Evil Gaiden (USA)?

1. Explore the Starlight ship using top-down navigation to find key items and solve environmental puzzles
2. When enemies appear, the perspective shifts to first-person for real-time combat
3. Time your attacks carefully during combat sequences:
   • Align the targeting cursor over the enemy
   • Strike when the cursor turns red for maximum damage
4. Monitor the heartbeat indicator at the bottom of the screen – faster pulses mean critical health
5. Switch between Barry and Leon when prompted to utilize their unique abilities
6. Conserve ammunition by aiming precisely during combat encounters

Keyboard Controls (GBC Emulation):

• Movement: Arrow keys or WASD
• A Button (Action/Shoot): Z key (interact with objects, confirm attacks in combat)
• B Button (Run/Cancel): X key (sprint, cancel actions)
• Start: Enter (pause game, access menu)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Resident Evil Gaiden considered part of the main series storyline?
No, it's a standalone non-canonical adventure that doesn't affect the core Resident Evil timeline, though it features main characters from the franchise.

How does the combat system work compared to other Resident Evil games?
Unlike the traditional fixed-camera tank controls, Gaiden uses a unique first-person real-time system where you must time attacks when a moving cursor aligns with enemies, creating tense rhythm-based encounters.

Can you save your progress in Resident Evil Gaiden?
Yes, progress can be saved at typewriters found throughout the Starlight ship, requiring ink ribbons like classic Resident Evil titles – manage these resources carefully.