One step forward for a portable RE, two steps back for gameplay.
Cons: broken game mechanics, not entertaining, no diversity, repetitive
Though fundamentals are in place, the game is very different from a traditional Resident Evil. The combat system for instance is totally different and awkward. Players run around through a top down perspective, and as soon as combat begins the game jumps to first person. Where a bar moves at the bottom of the screen from left to right. Players are required to hit the fire button when the bar highlights the enemy, and a dead centre shot results in a head-shot. It's no different then slot machines at the casino, and timing it is just as hard too, when 90% of the time you'll be wasting precious ammunition.
This game is also the first to implement an armour system, which was going to make it’s first use in Resident Evil 1.5. However, it has little affect on your defense, since when you first find and use the equipment at a point in the game, enemies will also become more vicious and stronger in their attacks. Which feels like a step forward, but two steps back in progression.
There is also the option of changing in between characters, which is handy when one's health is lower then the other, but serves no further use.
As for enemies, they lack in diversity, compared to other entries from the series. There are only 3 types of zombies, consisting of a male, poisonous female, male with club (deals more damage), and 1 type of boss. The one boss you'll face, will keep reappearing at numerous of scripted events for the entirety of the game. Which makes the experience a chore and gives the constant feeling of déjà vu.
Conclusion: if you want a true RE experience on the go, check RE: Deadly Silence for the DS. The game feels outdated, even considering the fact that it was released in 2000, it just doesn't hold it's ground as an action game or as an entry in the series. Some might play this and overlook the poor game-play for the story, but alas, the story is horribly written with awful dialogue. Dare I say even more then the original RE on PS.