Why U3 Was Cut From RE4 Remake [5 Reasons]

For better or for worse, U3 was axed from RE4 Remake, but there are hints the boss could return!

As a horrifying fusion of human, insect, and reptile DNA, U3 in the original Resident Evil 4 provided a heart-pounding encounter in the original game that left players both terrified and enthralled. The notoriously challenging and grotesque boss has been noticeably absent. U3 RE4 Remake should or should not make an appearance has been a burning question in the community & there are some obvious clues & documents hitting that this creepy long-tongue boss may potentially return in a DLC.

Key Takeaways
  • U3 was a scientific experiment that combines human, insect, and reptile DNA, creating a grotesque and terrifying boss in the original Resident Evil 4.
  • The U3 boss has been removed from the Resident Evil 4 Remake for various speculated reasons, including player feedback, pacing and gameplay balance, consistency in tone, development priorities, and narrative focus.
  • Fans may see U3 returning in DLC due to fan demand, surprise updates or expansions, Ada Wong’s Separate Ways campaign, Mercenaries mode, or alternate storyline/non-canon content.
  • In-game files, collectibles, and documents in the RE4 Remake hint at the U3’s existence but do not directly confirm its return as a boss fight.
  • The community’s reaction to the removal of the U3 boss has been mixed, with some expressing relief, disappointment, speculation, or mixed feelings.

Who Was U3?

U3 boss fight original Resident Evil 4

U3 has a grotesque form that combines human and insect features, resulting in a monstrous, revolting creature that sent chills down the spines of even the most seasoned Resident Evil fans. As players navigated the treacherous terrain of the Island section in the original Resident Evil 4, they stumbled upon the terrifying U3 boss. This menacing creature lurked in the shadows, waiting to strike fear into the hearts of players.

  • Facing the U3 boss required players to employ unique strategies to survive.
  • Instead of a traditional combat scenario, players found themselves running for their lives, frantically pressing buttons in a race against time to outwit the relentless monster.

Why Developers Removed U3 From RE4 Remake?

U3 Boss in action

While there is no official statement or response from Capcom as to why the U3 removal decision was made, we at eXputer believe that there could possibly be at least 5 reasons why such a call was made. 

Player Feedback

Over the years, the U3 boss has been the subject of numerous debates among fans of the original game. Many players found the boss fight to be frustrating and unenjoyable, which may have led the developers to take these concerns into account when creating the Remake.

Pacing and Gameplay Balance

The developers of the Resident Evil 4 Remake may have decided to streamline the gameplay experience by eliminating the U3 boss fight. Removing this battle can improve the pacing of the Island section and create a more cohesive experience for players, maintaining the focus on key encounters and challenges throughout the game.

Consistency in Tone

The U3 boss fight was significantly different from other encounters in the original game, primarily focusing on running and button-pressing rather than direct combat. This unique approach may have felt out of place in the Remake, as the developers aimed to create a more consistent tone and atmosphere throughout the game.

Development Priorities

With limited time and resources, the development team may have decided to allocate their efforts to refining other aspects of the game. By removing the U3 boss fight, they could focus on enhancing the graphics, improving the controls, and reimagining other encounters that contribute more meaningfully to the overall experience.

Narrative Focus

The U3 boss fight had little impact on the game’s overall story. By removing this encounter, the developers could place more emphasis on the central narrative and character development, creating a more engaging experience for players as they progress through the Remake.

Will Fans See U3 Returning In DLC?

Leon is taking a shot at U3.

While this is too early to say if U3 will make a return in future downloadable content, we strongly believe that Capcom may have something to showcase in the coming months. Still, there are 5 more reasons that we at eXputer believe could possibly bring back U3 in Resident Evil 4 Remake.  

Fan Demand

Given the U3’s divisive nature among fans, there may be a vocal group of players who appreciate its unique gameplay mechanics and would like to see it return. Capcom might consider reintroducing the U3 boss in response to fan requests.

Surprise Updates or Expansions

Capcom has a history of providing additional content to its games post-launch. It’s possible that the U3 boss could make a comeback as part of a surprise update or expansion, providing a nostalgic nod to long-time fans of the series.

Separate Ways DLC

In the original game, Ada Wong’s Separate Ways DLC campaign ran parallel to Leon’s story. If Capcom decides to develop a Separate Ways DLC for the Resident Evil 4 Remake, the U3 boss could be reintroduced as a unique challenge for Ada to face.

Mercenaries Mode

The Mercenaries mode, which was confirmed as a free update for the Resident Evil 4 Remake, offers an opportunity to bring back the U3 boss as an opponent in this timed challenge mode, testing players’ skills against a variety of enemies.

Alternate Storyline or Non-Canon Content

Capcom could choose to reintroduce the U3 boss as part of an alternate storyline or non-canon content, allowing players to experience a different version of events that includes the U3 encounter without impacting the core narrative of the Remake.

Is U3 Present In Collectibles/Documents?

While there aren’t any direct mentions of the U3 boss’s return in the Resident Evil 4 Remake, players can find hints of its existence through in-game files, collectibles, or documents. For example, there is a document in the Castle research notes or lab reports called Chronicles of Pursuit 2” that reference the U3’s creation or experiments conducted on it. This indirect mention could keep the U3’s presence alive within the game world, even if the boss fights itself is not included in the Remake.

Additionally, Easter eggs or hidden collectibles could be scattered throughout the game, featuring subtle nods to the U3 boss. These hidden treasures might reference the original boss encounter or its grotesque design, allowing players to reminisce about their past experiences with the U3 in the original Resident Evil 4.

While these in-game files, collectibles, or documents may not directly confirm the U3’s return as a boss fights in the Resident Evil 4 Remake, they help maintain its presence within the game’s universe and provide intriguing hints for players to uncover as they explore the world of Resident Evil 4.

Community’s Reaction Towards Removal Of U3 From RE4 Remake?

U3 Boss Morphed

The overall reaction towards the removal of the U3 RE4 Remake so far has been a mixed bag of feelings. Reddit users have varying opinions on the absence of the U3 boss in the remake version of the game. Here are some common viewpoints that we found on Reddit & Resetera expressed by the community on this subject:

  1. Relief: Some users are relieved that the U3 boss fight was removed, as they felt it detracted from the overall experience of the game. They appreciate the improved pacing and less frustrating gameplay without the U3 encounter.
  2. Disappointment: Other Reddit users are disappointed by the U3’s absence, as they enjoyed the unique challenge it provided. They argue that the U3 fight added variety to the game and contributed to the horror atmosphere of the original Resident Evil 4.
  3. Speculation: Many users are speculating on the potential return of the U3 boss through DLC or updates, with some even suggesting ideas for how it could be incorporated into Ada Wong’s Separate Ways campaign or the Mercenaries mode.
  4. Mixed Feelings: Some Reddit users have mixed feelings about the removal of the U3 boss, understanding Capcom’s decision to cut the divisive encounter but still feeling nostalgic for its inclusion in the original game.

Overall, Reddit users have a wide range of opinions on the U3 boss in the Resident Evil 4 Remake. Their thoughts and discussions reflect the diverse perspectives within the gaming community and highlight the unique experiences each player brings to the table.

Final Remarks

In conclusion, the removal of the U3 RE4 Remake has sparked a range of reactions from the gaming community. While some players welcome the change for a smoother gaming experience, others miss the thrill of facing this monstrous foe. As the debate continues, it’s essential to recognize that each player’s perspective is shaped by their unique experiences with the game. Whether or not Capcom decides to reintroduce the U3 boss in future updates or DLCs, the conversation surrounding this memorable creature highlights the passion and dedication of the Resident Evil fanbase.

While RE4 Remake boss fights like Saddler, Salazar, and Krauser are revamped and made much more interactive and difficult, we have a strong belief that Capcom can pull off something similar related to U3 in the future. 

Next:

Did you find this helpful? Leave feedback below.

Thanks! Do share your feedback with us. ⚡

How can we make this post better? Your help would be appreciated. ✍

Subscribe to our newsletter and get up-to-speed gaming updates delivered to your inbox.

We don’t spam! Read more in our privacy policy.


Irfan Ansari is a Senior Editor and Guides Writer on eXputer. He has seven years of Video Game Journalism experience and has been gaming for more than 22 years. Over his editorial career, he has gained experience at multiple sites, including TheGamer and VeryAli Gaming. Irfan has also earned a degree in Writing and Editing from the University of Michigan. Learn some more about Irfan's gaming journey on his Steam, PSN, and Xbox profiles.

Experience: 7+ Years || Worked for TheGamer and VeryAli Gaming

Related Articles

Join Our Community

Enjoyed this article? Discuss the latest gaming news, get expert help with guides and errors, and chat about all things gaming on eXputer Forums and Discord Server. Connect with fellow gamers who share your passion by becoming a part of eXputer's community.