Unlockables and Hidden Features in Resident Evil 1 Remake
(Works on GameCube, Wii, and HD Remaster for PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Switch)
Even though Resident Evil 2 and 3 have received their own modern remakes, the original Resident Evil Remake still stands tall as a groundbreaking reimagining of the 1996 classic. It launched just five years after the original and completely transformed the experience with its stunning visuals, updated mechanics, and atmospheric storytelling.
Now available across all major platforms including Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, the game remains a must-play for survival horror fans. Below, we’ve compiled all the unlockable modes, weapons, and character skins that add replay value and challenge to this timeless masterpiece.
Unlockable Costumes and Weapons
Chris Redfield’s Alternate Skins
- Hip Hop Outfit: Clear the game as Chris for the first time.
- S.T.A.R.S. Prototype Uniform (from RE: Code Veronica): Clear the game again as Chris via the “Once Again…” mode.
Jill Valentine’s Alternate Skins
- Military Outfit: Clear the game as Jill for the first time.
- Blue Battle Suit (from RE3): Clear the game again as Jill via “Once Again…” mode.
📝 Note:
On the GameCube/Wii, you’ll need the Closet Key from your item box to access a hidden door in the Exhibition Room to change costumes. In the HD Remaster, costumes can be selected from the character select screen, and players also get the B.S.A.A. outfit from the start.
Secret Weapons
- Rocket Launcher: Unlock by clearing the game (as either Chris or Jill) in under 3 hours on Normal difficulty or higher. It comes with unlimited ammo.
- Samurai Edge: Unlock by finishing the game in under 5 hours (as Chris or Jill) on Normal difficulty or higher. This handgun features enhanced stats for damage and accuracy.
Unlockable Game Modes
Once Again… Mode
A New Game Plus-style mode that becomes available after completing the game once. Players can replay using any difficulty, though previously acquired items will not carry over.
One Dangerous Zombie Mode
Once you’ve cleared the game once with Jill and once with Chris, a zombified version of Forest Speyer will appear in subsequent runs. This special zombie is faster than normal and carries explosives—if you touch or attack him, the game ends instantly. He appears after acquiring the Book of Curses and disappears once you get the Helmet Key.
Hard Mode & Real Survivor Mode
- Hard Mode unlocks after clearing the game once. Enemies become tougher, healing items and ammo are limited, and the challenge increases overall.
- Real Survivor Mode unlocks at the same time and adds a twist: item boxes are no longer connected. You must remember where you stored your items and go back to retrieve them.
Also, auto-aim is disabled, and the layout of certain areas (like the east wing) is slightly altered. Notably, the One Dangerous Zombie is disabled in this mode.
Invisible Enemy Mode
Unlock this brutal challenge by:
- Beating Real Survivor Mode
- Clearing the game as both Chris and Jill on Hard
In this mode:
- Enemies are completely invisible
- No auto-aim
- You can only detect enemies when they attack or by spotting blood splatter
- Reflections in puddles or mirrors might help—but barely
It’s arguably the toughest mode in the game, and finishing it is a true badge of honor.
A Look Back at Resident Evil 1 Remake
Originally released in 2002 and remastered in 2014, Resident Evil Remake follows Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine, members of the elite S.T.A.R.S. unit, as they investigate the mysterious disappearance of their Bravo Team. Their search leads them to a remote mansion filled with the undead, setting the stage for one of the most iconic horror stories in gaming history.
Now fully accessible across all major consoles and PC, the game continues to attract both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Final Thought
The Resident Evil 1 Remake is a perfect example of how a remake should be done—it respects its source material while boldly enhancing every aspect of the experience. The unlockable modes and features don’t just add cosmetic value or difficulty—they enrich the game’s replayability, reward mastery, and deepen immersion.
From dodging an explosive zombie to navigating a mansion filled with invisible horrors, these unlockables give players new ways to test their survival instincts. It’s not just about beating the game—it’s about conquering it on your own terms.
If you’re a horror fan or someone who appreciates tight game design, these challenges are absolutely worth unlocking. Just remember: the mansion holds many secrets, but only the brave will uncover them all.
