Resident Evil: Then and Now
Introduction
When it comes to survival horror games, the Resident Evil series undoubtedly stands out as one of the most iconic names. Since the release of the first game in 1996, this series has undergone multiple stages of development and transformation, gradually becoming a classic in video game history. This post will take you through the origins, evolution, and profound impact of Resident Evil on gaming culture.
Origins: The Birth of Survival Horror
The origin of the Resident Evil series can be traced back to 1996, when the Japanese game company Capcom released the first game. Directed by Shinji Mikami, who is often hailed as the father of survival horror, the game was initially conceived as a remake of Capcom’s earlier horror game, Sweet Home (1989). However, it evolved into something much larger, pioneering the survival horror genre.
The Original Resident Evil Cover
Spencer Mansion from Resident Evil 1996
The Early Years: Establishing a Legacy
The first Resident Evil game introduced players to the eerie Spencer Mansion, where they had to navigate through puzzles, combat zombies, and uncover a sinister plot. Its fixed camera angles, limited ammunition, and inventory management created a sense of tension and dread that was unprecedented. The success of Resident Evil led to the development of sequels, each expanding the story and improving gameplay mechanics.
Resident Evil 2 (1998) and Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (1999) further cemented the series' reputation, introducing memorable characters like Leon S. Kennedy and Jill Valentine. The games maintained the core elements of survival horror while adding more action-oriented sequences.
Every Version Of Resident Evil's Leon Kennedy
Transition to Action: A New Era
With the release of Resident Evil 4 in 2005, the series underwent a significant transformation. Directed by Shinji Mikami, Resident Evil 4 shifted from the traditional fixed camera angles to an over-the-shoulder perspective, providing a more immersive and action-packed experience. This change revitalized the series and is often credited with redefining the third-person shooter genre.
However, subsequent entries like Resident Evil 5 (2009) and Resident Evil 6 (2012) leaned heavily into action, which divided the fanbase. While these games were commercially successful, some fans and critics felt that the series had strayed too far from its horror roots.
Return to Horror: Reclaiming the Throne
Responding to the desire for a return to true survival horror, Capcom released Resident Evil 7: Biohazard in 2017. This game marked a return to the series’ horror roots, featuring a first-person perspective and a focus on atmosphere and exploration. Set in a dilapidated plantation mansion in Louisiana, it was praised for its terrifying ambiance and innovative gameplay.
The success of Resident Evil 7 led to the highly acclaimed remakes of Resident Evil 2 (2019) and Resident Evil 3 (2020), which modernized the classic games with current technology while retaining the essence of the originals. These remakes were well-received by both new players and longtime fans, reinvigorating interest in the series.
Resident Evil 4 VR review
The Future: Continuing the Legacy
In 2021, Resident Evil Village (Resident Evil 8) continued the story of Resident Evil 7, combining elements of horror and action. The game introduced new characters and settings, further expanding the rich lore of the series. Capcom has also announced plans for future installments and remakes, ensuring that Resident Evil will continue to evolve and captivate audiences.
RESIDENT EVIL 8 VILLAGE - Family Meeting & Lycan Chase Scene
The Resident Evil series has undergone significant transformations since its inception, continuously redefining and innovating the survival horror genre. From its early days of fixed camera angles and spine-chilling atmosphere to the modern remakes and action-packed adventures, Resident Evil has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. As the series continues to grow, fans eagerly anticipate what new horrors and adventures await in the world of Resident Evil