The much publicised Resident Evil 5 demo finally hit Xbox Live on Monday and although Capcom point out before hand that the demo does not fully represent the final product, it is shaping up to look pretty impressive. As a visual showcase the attention to detail is outstanding, with beautifully realised landscapes and effects ( the exploding barrel effects are some of the best this generation has to offer).
 
The style of gameplay carries on with the action based approach what Resi 4 started and the option to use the D-pad to switch quicker between some key items is a welcome addition. Not being able to move whilst shooting makes a what some might call an unwelcome return and although the control style has not changed much, it isn't the perfect marriage that RE4 had with the Gamecube controller and takes a while to get used to. Having Sheva by your side comes I handy when reloading or on the brink of death, but on the flipside can become a hindrance when having to do the same for her. I cannot comment on the co-op mode ( my username is my Gamertag if anyone wishes to try it with me sometime).
 
Overall first impressions from the demo seem to imply a well presented action experience, that could be hindered by a jerky camera and fiddly controls.