Not the same as RE4, but then again RE4 wasn't the same as the others now was it?
Now what it gains in co-operative fun, it loses in the fear factor. Now don't let that get you down, although it isn't scary that doesn't mean it isn't intense. There will be many heart-pounding/button mashing moments in which you'll be fighting off malicious/murdering majini monstrosities, trust me. A dis-advantage of co-op is item management. You basically get 9 slots to carry whatever it is you wish (Compared to the usual 18 [AI Sheva's inventory])... Yet you gain a human companion, which can be a good or bad thing depending on who you play with. IMO a noob > AI. (As long as the noob has a mic and can listen, heh)
Now to touch on the not-so-obvious differences between RE4 and RE5.
- Fully upgraded weapons no longer give an exclusive upgrade
- Controls updated (Strafe included)
- Fewer mercenaries characters (only 4 this time around, but with alternative costumes)
- Much shorter (So the game can be enjoyed more co-op wise)
- More weapon variety (4 handguns 3 magnums 4 machine guns 4 shotguns 3 Rifles 1 grenade launcher 1 rocket launcher)
- More melee (Partner combo's possible)
- More mercenaries stages (10 stages compared to RE4's 4 stages)
- Less escorting (Sheva > stupid Ashley)
- Updated professional mode (Much more difficult this time around. 4's pro mode was a joke IMO)
- Treasure updated (No more combined treasures)
- A chapter select mode (For those things you missed)
- Library mode (For reviewing all of RE's history or just 5's)
- Can't buy ammo (Ammo can be traded in co-op)
- Infinite ammo can be unlocked on all weapons
Now many people complain that you can't move and shoot/reload. Sure it can be frustrating at first when you're shooting at enemies and get hit/grabbed from behind because you can't stay in constant motion. Bypassing this problem is simple, change your play style. Don't stand in the same spot forever and try to kill everything. Learn the melee stun animations (Head shots, knee shots, arm shots) and abuse them regularly. Usually what I'd find myself doing while playing with ammo on is Aim> Shoot a few shots> Run up and melee> rinse, wash, and repeat.
Well I have to cut this review short since I'm at work and I really shouldn't be writing a review right now. Hope the little information I provided helps a few people. Peace