33 Facts About Resident Evil (Video Game)

The Origins of Resident Evil

Resident Evil, known as Biohazard in Japan, is a survival horror game series that has captivated players worldwide. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about this iconic franchise.

1. Resident Evil's Creation: The game was created by Shinji Mikami and Tokuro Fujiwara and first released by Capcom in 1996.

2. Inspired by Sweet Home: The game drew inspiration from Capcom's earlier horror game, Sweet Home, which was based on a Japanese horror film of the same name.

3. Name Change: The name "Resident Evil" was chosen for the Western release because Capcom USA felt "Biohazard" was too generic and difficult to trademark.

Iconic Characters and Storylines

The series is renowned for its memorable characters and gripping storylines. Here are some fascinating details about the people and plots that make Resident Evil unforgettable.

4. Jill Valentine: Jill Valentine, one of the main protagonists, was modeled after Canadian model Julia Voth.

5. Albert Wesker: The main antagonist, Albert Wesker, was originally intended to die in the first game but was brought back due to his popularity.

6. Leon S. Kennedy: Leon S. Kennedy, a fan-favorite character, was a rookie cop on his first day in Resident Evil 2.

7. Chris Redfield: Chris Redfield, another central character, has appeared in more Resident Evil games than any other character.

Gameplay Innovations

Resident Evil has introduced several gameplay mechanics that have become staples in the survival horror genre. Let's look at some of these innovations.

8. Tank Controls: The original game featured "tank controls," where the character moves relative to the direction they are facing, not the camera angle.

9. Fixed Camera Angles: Early games used fixed camera angles to create a sense of tension and surprise.

10. Inventory Management: The series introduced limited inventory space, forcing players to make strategic decisions about which items to carry.

11. Save System: The use of typewriters and ink ribbons to save progress added an extra layer of challenge and strategy.

Memorable Moments and Easter Eggs

Resident Evil is filled with unforgettable moments and hidden secrets. Here are some that stand out.

12. The First Zombie Encounter: The first zombie encounter in the original game is one of the most iconic moments in gaming history.

13. The Dog Jump Scare: The infamous dog jump scare in the first game has terrified countless players.

14. The Tofu Survivor: In Resident Evil 2, players can unlock a mode where they play as a giant piece of tofu.

15. The Merchant: The mysterious merchant in Resident Evil 4 has become a beloved character, known for his catchphrase, "What're ya buyin'?"

Evolution of the Series

Over the years, Resident Evil has evolved significantly, both in terms of gameplay and graphics. Here are some key developments.

16. Resident Evil 4: The fourth installment revolutionized the series with its over-the-shoulder camera and more action-oriented gameplay.

17. Resident Evil 7: The seventh game returned to the series' horror roots with a first-person perspective and a focus on atmosphere and tension.

18. Remakes: Capcom has released highly acclaimed remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 3, updating the graphics and gameplay for modern audiences.

19. Resident Evil Village: The latest installment, Resident Evil Village, combines elements from previous games and introduces new characters and settings.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Resident Evil has left a lasting impact on popular culture and the gaming industry. Here are some ways the series has influenced the world.

20. Movies and TV Shows: The series has spawned several movies and an upcoming Netflix series.

21. Merchandise: Resident Evil has inspired a wide range of merchandise, from action figures to clothing.

22. Influence on Other Games: The series has influenced many other games, including Silent Hill and The Last of Us.

23. Guinness World Records: Resident Evil holds several Guinness World Records, including "Best-Selling Survival Horror Series."

Fun Facts and Trivia

Let's wrap up with some fun and lesser-known facts about Resident Evil.

24. Voice Acting: The original game's voice acting is often cited as some of the worst in gaming history, adding to its charm.

25. Live-Action Intro: The first game featured a live-action intro sequence, which was cut from the Western release due to its graphic nature.

26. Resident Evil 1.5: An early version of Resident Evil 2, known as Resident Evil 1.5, was scrapped and significantly reworked before release.

27. Chainsaw Controller: Resident Evil 4 had a special edition chainsaw-shaped controller for the GameCube and PlayStation 2.

28. Resident Evil Outbreak: This spin-off allowed players to experience the zombie outbreak from the perspective of ordinary citizens.

29. Resident Evil Gaiden: A lesser-known entry in the series, Resident Evil Gaiden, was released for the Game Boy Color.

30. Resident Evil 6: The sixth game in the series is the best-selling entry, despite mixed reviews from fans and critics.

31. Resident Evil Revelations: This spin-off series focuses on episodic storytelling and has been praised for its return to the series' horror roots.

32. Resident Evil: Code Veronica: Originally released for the Sega Dreamcast, this game is considered one of the best in the series by many fans.

33. Resident Evil 5: The fifth game introduced co-op gameplay, allowing players to team up and tackle the horror together.

Final Thoughts on Resident Evil

Resident Evil has left a lasting impact on the gaming world. From its spine-chilling atmosphere to its memorable characters, it’s no wonder fans keep coming back for more. The series has evolved over the years, introducing new gameplay mechanics and storylines while staying true to its horror roots. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, there’s always something exciting to discover. The blend of action, puzzles, and survival horror keeps players on their toes, making each game a unique experience. As the franchise continues to grow, it’s clear that Resident Evil will remain a staple in the gaming community. So, grab your controller, turn off the lights, and dive into the terrifying world of Resident Evil. You won’t be disappointed.