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Resident Evil at 30: how Capcom’s horror opus has survived and thrived
From owing a debt to obscure Japanese horror Sweet Home to the influence of Aliens and Texas Chain Saw Massacre, the franchise continues to petrify players three decades on
TL;DR
- Resident Evil emerged in the 1990s as a stark contrast to the prevailing arcade-style games, emphasizing player vulnerability.
- The series' survival and flourishing over 30 years are attributed to its innovative horror gameplay, drawing inspiration from Sweet Home, Romero's films, and Alone in the Dark.
- Key to its success are its restricted camera angles, limited resources, and reliance on tension and omission, treating players as victims navigating peril.
- Resident Evil expertly incorporates references to horror films like Alien and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and fluidly shifts between gothic, sci-fi, and folk horror genres.
- The franchise mirrors societal fears, particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic with its themes of viruses and corrupt corporations like Umbrella.
- Strong, relatable characters and charismatic antagonists contribute to player engagement, while the series' accessibility and evolving gameplay keep it relevant.
- Resident Evil masterfully balances exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, offering moments of respite and playing on the player's perception of reality to instill fear.