Highlights
Reviving the allure for contemporary viewers, Resident Evil has achieved resounding triumphs through its remastered renditions of its timeless releases, commencing with the inaugural installment in 2002 and persevering with the revitalizations of Resident Evil 2 and 3.
Following the successful remake of Resident Evil 4, there arises speculation regarding the series' future direction. While the forthcoming announcement of Resident Evil 9 is anticipated, rumors indicate the possibility of additional remakes being developed.
Both Code: Veronica and Resident Evil 5 present promising opportunities for remakes wherein classic characters can be reintroduced and their original versions enhanced. Simultaneously revealing both remakes, alongside a definitive release order, would not only resolve arguments but also provide fans with eager anticipation.
Resident Evil has experienced tremendous success in its efforts to remake its classic titles. It all began in 2002 with the remake of the original Resident Evil, and in 2019, the franchise revisited this idea with the highly successful remake of Resident Evil 2. This achievement paved the way for the creation of Resident Evil 3, although it didn't quite reach the same level of success. Resident Evil 8 and the remake of Resident Evil 4 served as testing grounds for the reimagined version. It is truly remarkable how Capcom has managed to recapture the appeal of these legendary titles for modern audiences.
However, this success raises the question of what the future holds for the Resident Evil series. Many consider Resident Evil 4 to be the pinnacle of the franchise, and now that it has been remade, some may question the need for further remakes. The direction of Resident Evil 9 remains uncertain, with only the first chapter following Ethan Winters' arc confirmed. Although the official announcement is anticipated soon, it leaves fans wondering about the game's content. There are also rumors circulating about more remakes being in the works. However, these remakes would need to tackle entries with more mixed reputations, presenting a challenging task. Signs point towards remakes of either Resident Evil Code: Veronica or Resident Evil 5, yet Capcom has the opportunity to find a solution that satisfies all parties involved.
Code: Veronica and RE5 Are Both Viable Resident Evil Remakes
When considering which games to remake in the Resident Evil franchise, two options come to mind: Code: Veronica, a survival horror title released in 2000 featuring Claire and Chris Redfield, or Resident Evil 5, a co-op shooter released in 2009 with Chris and Sheva Alomar. While neither of these games are particularly disliked by fans, there is potential for improvement, especially if Capcom plans to have Chris Redfield or Albert Wesker as main characters in future entries. While nothing has been confirmed, it is speculated that the next installment of Resident Evil will revolve around this classic hero and villain duo, making it sensible to reintroduce them beforehand.
This brings up the question of the release order for these potential remakes. Given that the most recent Resident Evil game was a remake, many are eagerly anticipating the release of RE9. However, after that, the order could vary. Code: Veronica could benefit from a remake in order to update its tone, lore, and design to fit with modern Resident Evil. On the other hand, Resident Evil 5 offers an enjoyable co-op experience but is hindered by poor AI in singleplayer, culturally insensitive content, and a shallow plot that favors action over depth. Both games would greatly benefit from remakes, so Capcom should promptly confirm their plans to the public.
Resident Evil's Immediate Future Should Be Laid Bare
To resolve any debates regarding the upcoming releases of Resident Evil, it is recommended that Capcom announces the remakes of Resident Evil Code: Veronica and Resident Evil 5 concurrently and in a clear order of release. This approach would emulate the 2015 announcement of the Resident Evil 2 remake, where the existence of the game was confirmed well in advance of any previews. By doing this, Capcom can not only settle debates about the franchise's future direction but also give Code: Veronica a chance to shine before the release of Resident Evil 5.
Both titles would feature Chris Redfield as the main protagonist, but Code: Veronica would serve as the conclusion to Claire's story from the Resident Evil 2 remake and also establish Wesker as a significant villain. This would then lead to a remade version of Resident Evil 5, providing an explanation for Chris's activities before the events of Resident Evil 7 and laying the groundwork for Albert Wesker's revival in a new game. Given Wesker's prolonged absence from the series, his inclusion in the RE4 remake felt lacking in context, making it crucial for both of these games to reestablish his character. By confirming the remakes of Code: Veronica and Resident Evil 5, Capcom can confidently move forward while reassuring fans that there is plenty of Resident Evil content to look forward to.