Capcom has quietly released classic survival horror titles Dino Crisis and Dino Crisis 2 on Steam, marking the first time the games have been available on the platform. The launch is accompanied by a 50% discount, bringing the price down to $4.99 each until .
Previously available on GOG and, in the case of Dino Crisis, on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, the Steam versions offer improved compatibility with modern systems. According to Capcom, the PC releases feature a DirectX updated renderer, new graphical options including windowed mode, V-Sync, gamma correction, anti-aliasing, and integer scaling, as well as support for resolutions up to approximately 4K and 32-bit color depth.
Beyond visual enhancements, the Steam versions also boast improvements to geometry, textures, and transparency effects. Capcom states that overall stability has been increased, resolving issues with animations, video playback, music, and the save system. Crucially, the games now offer broad support for modern controllers, including DualSense, DualShock 4, Xbox controllers, and Nintendo Switch Pro controllers, with automatic button mapping.
The original Dino Crisis, released in 1999, blended survival horror elements with the threat of dinosaurs, earning it comparisons to the Resident Evil series. Players assume the role of special agent Regina as she investigates a facility overrun with prehistoric creatures. The sequel, Dino Crisis 2, shifted towards a more action-oriented experience, sending Regina back in time to the Cretaceous Period to rescue survivors of a city displaced in time.
While the Steam releases are based on the versions previously available on GOG, a notable omission is the lack of Steam achievements. This has already drawn some criticism from players who anticipated full integration with Valve’s platform features. The Steam store pages for both titles confirm this lack of achievement support.
The sudden appearance of both games on Steam has sparked speculation among fans about Capcom’s intentions. Many have long called for a remake or a new installment in the Dino Crisis franchise, and this release could be seen as a way for Capcom to gauge current interest in the property. As of today, , the company has not made any official announcements regarding a potential revival of the series.
The timing of the release, coinciding with Capcom’s publisher sale, suggests a strategic move to capitalize on existing fan demand and potentially attract new players to the franchise. The discounted price of $4.99 provides an accessible entry point for those unfamiliar with the series, while the technical improvements offer a more polished experience for returning players.
The improvements to controller support are particularly significant, addressing a common complaint about the original PC releases. The automatic button mapping should streamline the experience for players using a variety of controllers, reducing the need for manual configuration. The enhanced graphical options also allow players to tailor the visual experience to their individual preferences and hardware capabilities.
The absence of Steam achievements, however, is a point of contention. Achievements have become a standard feature for many PC games, providing players with additional goals and a sense of progression. Their omission may deter some players who value these features.
The release of Dino Crisis and Dino Crisis 2 on Steam represents a welcome addition to the platform’s library of classic survival horror titles. While the lack of achievements is a minor drawback, the technical improvements and discounted price make these games an attractive option for fans of the genre and those looking to revisit a piece of gaming history. Whether this release signals a potential revival of the franchise remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly demonstrates Capcom’s willingness to revisit its past catalog and cater to its dedicated fanbase.
