For over two decades, the Resident Evil series has captivated gamers worldwide with its unique blend of survival horror, action, and storytelling. Delving deep into the eerie world of biohazard outbreaks and zombie apocalypses, this series has achieved legendary status in the gaming world. Let's take a closer look at the fascinating aspects of this series that might be unknown to even the most ardent fans.
1. The Real-Life Inspiration
Resident Evil's chilling atmosphere and setting were inspired by the movie 'Sweet Home,' a 1989 Japanese horror film. Similarly, the game was originally intended to be a horror-themed RPG for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System before evolving into the survival horror genre we know today.
2. The Hidden Meaning Behind the Name
Resident Evil was initially released in Japan under the name "Biohazard." However, the game was renamed due to potential trademark issues in the United States. The name 'Resident Evil' is a reference to the game's initial setting, a mansion.
3. The Unreleased Game
Did you know there is a version of Resident Evil 2 that was never released? Known as 'Resident Evil 1.5', it was supposedly 60-80% complete before the developers decided to scrap it and start over, resulting in the version that was eventually released.
4. The Influence of George A. Romero
Famous for his "Night of the Living Dead" series, George A. Romero was originally asked to direct the commercial for Resident Evil 2 in Japan. His influence on the series is unmistakable, especially in the way the zombies are depicted.
5. The First Game to Use the Term "Survival Horror"
Resident Evil is credited as the first game to use the term "survival horror." This term was coined to describe the game's unique gameplay mechanics, merging horror elements with survival tactics.
6. The Game That Never Was
There was supposed to be a Resident Evil game for the Game Boy Color. However, despite being almost complete, Capcom decided to cancel the game because it didn't meet their quality standards.
7. The Influence on Other Games
Resident Evil's success sparked a whole new genre of games. Games like Silent Hill and Dead Space owe a lot to the trail blazed by Resident Evil.
8. The Multiple Endings
The original Resident Evil game had multiple endings, a rather innovative feature for games at the time. The ending you got was based on decisions you made throughout the game.
9. The Live-Action Movie Series
The popularity of the Resident Evil series led to a successful movie franchise, which has grossed over $1 billion worldwide. These films, while not directly following the game plot, have undoubtedly contributed to the franchise's popularity.
10. The Guinness World Record
As a testament to its popularity, the Resident Evil series holds a Guinness World Record for "Most Live-Action Film Adaptations of a Video Game."
In conclusion, the Resident Evil series is far more than just a game; it's a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible impact on the world of gaming. From its real-life inspirations to its influence on the gaming landscape, its numerous versions, and its foray into the film industry, the Resident Evil series is a fascinating study of a gaming giant. The next time you find yourself navigating through its eerie locales, remember these interesting facts and gain a deeper appreciation for this legendary series.