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 are usually welcome for 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 change: mandatory online DRM.

This DRM checks purchase history upon game launch, verifying ownership of the game and any DLC before accessing the title screen. Rejecting the verification request closes the application. While the process takes only a few seconds with an internet connection, it renders these titles completely unplayable offline—a significant drawback from their previous offline functionality.

Pre-update testing confirmed all three games launched and functioned offline. Post-update, the verification prompt appears, and refusing it terminates the game. This forced online check is disappointing, especially for those who already purchased the games. Ideally, Capcom should implement a less intrusive purchase verification system, perhaps one that checks less frequently.

This update negatively impacts the recommendation of Capcom's premium mobile ports. If you haven't purchased them, free trials are available. You can find Resident Evil 7 biohazard on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS here. Resident Evil 4 Remake is available on the App Store here, and Resident Evil Village here. My reviews can be found here, here, and here.

Do you own these three Resident Evil titles on iOS? What are your thoughts on this update?