The Origins of Resident Evil: A Look into How it All Began
Resident Evil, the popular survival horror game series, has been around for decades, capturing the imaginations of gamers all over the world. But where did it all start? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the origins of Resident Evil, exploring how it started, how it evolved, and what makes it such a beloved game series today.
The Beginning: How Did Resident Evil Start?
At its core, Resident Evil started as a simple idea: to create a game that combines horror and action elements. The game’s developers, Shinji Mikami and Tokuro Fujiwara, drew inspiration from classic horror movies like Night of the Living Dead, as well as from video games like Alone in the Dark.
The Early Years: Resident Evil 1 and 2
The first Resident Evil game, released in 1996, introduced players to the world of Raccoon City, where a deadly virus had turned most of the population into zombies. Players took on the role of members of an elite police unit, tasked with finding out what had happened and stopping the spread of the virus. The game was a smash hit, both with critics and players, and spawned a sequel just two years later.
Resident Evil 2 continued the story of the first game, introducing new characters and expanding the game’s world. It also introduced elements that would become staples of the series, such as branching storylines and multiple playable characters. The game was another hit, cementing Resident Evil’s place as one of the biggest game series of the time.
The Next Evolution: Resident Evil 4 and Beyond
Over the years, the series continued to evolve and expand. Resident Evil 4, released in 2005, revamped the series’ gameplay, introducing a new over-the-shoulder camera angle and action-heavy gameplay. While some longtime fans were skeptical of the changes, the game was a hit with both critics and players, earning near-universal praise for its inventive gameplay and thrilling setpieces.
Since then, the series has seen ups and downs. Resident Evil 5 and 6 continued the action-heavy gameplay of Resident Evil 4, but were criticized for their lack of horror elements. Resident Evil 7, released in 2017, returned the series to its horror roots, introducing a first-person perspective and a back-to-basics approach to gameplay. The game was a critical and commercial success, reminding fans why they fell in love with the series in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Resident Evil so popular?
Resident Evil is popular for many reasons, but one of the main reasons is its innovative gameplay and gripping storytelling. The game has always been at the forefront of the survival horror genre, combining elements of horror, action, and puzzles to create a unique gameplay experience.
Who are the main characters in Resident Evil?
The Resident Evil series has a large roster of characters, but some of the most recognizable include Chris Redfield, Jill Valentine, Leon S. Kennedy, and Claire Redfield.
What is the T-virus?
The T-virus is a fictional virus that serves as the main plot device of the Resident Evil series. It was created by the Umbrella Corporation, a nefarious organization that seeks to use the virus for their own gain.
In Conclusion
In the years since its inception, Resident Evil has become one of the most iconic and beloved game series out there. From its simple beginnings as a horror-action game in 1996 to the blockbuster hits it is today, the series has continued to evolve and innovate, keeping players coming back for more. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, there’s never been a better time to jump into the world of Resident Evil.