The Key Focus for the Upcoming Resident Evil Game

Highlights

The Resident Evil franchise should focus more on character development to avoid its iconic protagonists feeling one-note and shallow.

The series can draw inspiration from Silent Hill by delving into the psychologies, personal relationships, and backstories of its characters. Expanding romance plots or incorporating flashback sequences can enhance the depth and vulnerability of the typically aloof and distant heroes, leading to substantial character growth.

The popularity of the Resident Evil franchise has seen a significant resurgence due to the success of its first-person entries and remakes. However, there is still room for improvement in one crucial aspect. While the series has become darker in tone and themes, its narrative could benefit from further development.

Unlike other survival horror series like Silent Hill, Resident Evil has always focused on its characters. With the exception of one character, the protagonists in Resident Evil games come out of their harrowing experiences physically and emotionally intact, allowing them to continue their journey in future releases. The series revolves around a select group of central characters, such as Chris Redfield, Claire Redfield, Jill Valentine, and Leon Kennedy. These heroes are admired for their strength, determination, and positive mindset, which enables them to confront terrifying challenges head-on. Although recent Resident Evil games have provided some insight into the lives of these protagonists and supporting characters, it would be beneficial for the series to further explore their backgrounds and psychological depths.

Resident Evil Needs to Focus More On Character Development

The famous protagonists of Resident Evil, while iconic, often lack depth and complexity in their characterization. However, in Resident Evil 7 and Resident Evil Village, efforts have been made to develop Ethan Winters into a more multifaceted character by exploring his relationship with his wife and child. Despite these efforts, Ethan still lacks the charm and charisma displayed by other main characters in the series. As a result, it seems unlikely that Ethan will return to the franchise in the near future.

Therefore, it would be advantageous for the series to take measures to delve deeper into these beloved characters. In comparison to Silent Hill, the Silent Hill franchise consistently delves into the psychology of its characters, intertwining the narrative of each game with their personal relationships and backgrounds. Konami successfully uses the setting of Silent Hill, along with the story and gameplay mechanics, to explore the fears, desires, and traumas of each protagonist. On the other hand, Resident Evil's protagonists, excluding Ethan Winters, are often emotionally distant from the stories they inhabit, usually functioning as members of law enforcement or specialized military units. While this approach is intentional to create a more action-oriented experience, it is becoming repetitive and predictable.

Resident Evil showcases multiple playable characters, with Leon, Chris, Ada, Claire, and Jill being the most prominent. However, these characters, despite their action-hero personas, are often lacking in interest and depth. To enhance their development, future installments should delve into their backgrounds, regrets, and personal relationships. Given the trials and trauma they have endured throughout the franchise, there is immense potential for exploring these aspects in upcoming narratives. Even the rumored remakes of Resident Evil 5 and Resident Evil 6 could provide an opportunity for additional character growth by retroactively incorporating insightful scenes or dialogue that were absent in the originals.

Focusing on character development does not necessarily mean deviating into dark and disturbing storylines akin to Silent Hill. Something as simple as expanding romance plots in the Resident Evil games could have a profound impact, as it would allow players to witness a more intimate and vulnerable side of characters who are typically portrayed as cool and detached. Other possible approaches include flashback sequences or introducing personal stakes that create a deeper connection between the heroes and the overarching narrative. Regardless of the path Capcom chooses to take with its Resident Evil characters, significant development is crucial for their evolution.

Resident Evil Village is the direct sequel to RE7 and continues the story introduced in the previous installment. The game quickly gained immense popularity upon its release, with one of its characters, Lady Dimitrescu, achieving meme status. In 2021, RE Village was honored with the prestigious Game of the Year title at the Golden Joystick Awards.

Franchise: Resident Evil

Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Stadia, PC

Release Date: May 7, 2021

Developed by: Capcom

Published by: Capcom

Genre: Survival Horror

Game Engine: RE Engine

ESRB Rating: M for Mature - Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Strong Language

Gameplay Duration: 10 Hours

Metascore: 84