Capcom has brought its classic survival horror lineup to Steam, releasing the original Resident Evil, Resident Evil 2, and Resident Evil 3: Nemesis alongside Breath of Fire IV. Each title is priced at $4.99 as part of a limited-time 50% discount running until April 15.
While the release gives fans a new way to revisit these classics, it has also sparked controversy over the inclusion of Capcom’s Enigma DRM.
Enhanced Versions Return With Familiar Upgrades
The versions released on Steam are not entirely new. They are essentially the same enhanced editions previously launched on GOG, featuring smoother animations, improved audio, better keyboard and mouse support, and expanded display options.
For many players, this means a more polished experience compared to the original releases, making the trilogy more accessible on modern systems.
Enigma DRM Sparks Player Backlash
The main source of criticism is the addition of Enigma DRM, a protection system that Capcom has increasingly used in its recent titles. Unlike Steam, platforms like GOG offer DRM-free versions of these same games, allowing users to play offline without restrictions.
Players have raised concerns that the inclusion of DRM in decades-old titles feels unnecessary, especially when DRM-free alternatives already exist.
Past Performance Issues Raise Concerns
The backlash is partly driven by Enigma’s history. The software has previously been linked to performance problems in other Capcom titles. For example, when it was added to Resident Evil Revelations, users reported crashes and performance drops.
A similar situation occurred with Resident Evil 4 Remake, where Enigma replaced Denuvo in 2026 and reportedly caused stuttering and mod compatibility issues. Capcom eventually removed DRM from that game after community complaints.
Given this track record, many players are questioning why the same system is being applied to older titles.
Steam Deck Compatibility Issues Reported
Another major concern involves compatibility with the Steam Deck. Users report that the games do not run smoothly out of the box on SteamOS, often requiring manual tweaks to function properly.
Common issues include input glitches, inconsistent video playback, missing cloud save support, and general instability. Many players believe these problems are tied to the Enigma DRM implementation.
Mixed Reception Despite Positive Ratings
Despite the controversy, the classic Resident Evil titles have still managed to earn a “Very Positive” rating on Steam. This suggests that while the core games remain beloved, the technical and DRM-related concerns are affecting overall sentiment.
For some players, the low price and improved features are enough to overlook these issues. For others, the presence of DRM continues to be a dealbreaker.
Conclusion
The return of Resident Evil and its sequels on Steam should have been a straightforward win for Capcom. Instead, the addition of Enigma DRM has sparked debate around performance, compatibility, and consumer rights. While the games themselves remain iconic, the controversy highlights how even classic releases can face modern challenges in today’s gaming ecosystem.