The Legacy of Resident Evil Games
Resident Evil, a beloved franchise by fans of survival horror games, has left a lasting mark on the gaming industry since its inception in 1996. Over the years, Capcom has released a plethora of Resident Evil titles, from main series entries to spin-offs across multiple platforms.
The Nintendo Wii, known for its innovative gameplay experiences, also witnessed the arrival of Resident Evil games, including the rail shooter spin-offs like Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles and the enigmatic Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles. These games offered a fresh perspective on established events in the Resident Evil universe, sparking curiosity about their canonical status.
The Canon Conundrum
The debate surrounding the canonicity of Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles gained momentum when the recent Resident Evil 4 remake referenced Operation Javier, a pivotal military operation from the spin-off game. Fans eagerly sought clarification from Capcom regarding the canonical significance of The Darkside Chronicles.
In an interview with IGN, Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, the producer of Resident Evil 4 remake, shed light on the matter. While confirming the occurrence of 'Operation Javier' in the main Resident Evil storyline, Hirabayashi hinted at discrepancies between the events portrayed in The Darkside Chronicles and the actual storyline. This revelation added a layer of complexity to the game's canon status, leaving fans intrigued.
Evolution of Canon in Resident Evil
Resident Evil has never shied away from challenging its established canon, often reshaping narratives, introducing retcons, and expanding the lore with new revelations. The franchise's willingness to experiment with storytelling is evident, as seen in the release of the Resident Evil remake for the GameCube, which introduced fresh character dynamics and plot elements not present in the original game.
Notably, character portrayals in Resident Evil have also undergone significant transformations over the years. Chris Redfield, a central figure in the series, has seen drastic changes in appearance across different installments, showcasing Capcom's flexible approach to character design and continuity within the Resident Evil universe.