Why is Resident Evil called like that?
The popular survival horror video game series, Resident Evil, has been a staple of the gaming industry for over two decades. The series, created by Shinji Mikami and Tokuro Fujiwara, has undergone many changes and iterations, but the core concept of the game remains the same: to survive in a world overrun by zombies and other monstrous creatures. But have you ever wondered why the game is called "Resident Evil"? In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the game’s title and how it has become synonymous with survival horror.
The Origins of the Title
The title "Resident Evil" was chosen by the game’s creators as a result of a company-wide contest. According to an interview with Shinji Mikami, the game’s director, the contest was held to come up with a new name for the game’s US debut. The title "Resident Evil" was chosen because it reflected the game’s theme of a horror movie, with the word "Resident" referring to the living and "Evil" referring to the monstrous creatures that the players must face.
The Meaning of "Resident Evil"
The title "Resident Evil" can be interpreted in a few ways. On one hand, it can be seen as a reference to the fact that the game takes place in a world where the living are at risk of being infected by the zombie-like creatures. The word "Resident" refers to the people who live in this world, and "Evil" refers to the monsters that threaten their existence.
On the other hand, the title can also be seen as a commentary on the idea of what it means to be a "resident" of a place. In the game, the player takes on the role of a character who is a resident of the fictional town of Raccoon City, and the game explores the idea of what it means to be a resident of a place that is overrun by evil.
The Evolution of the Title
Over the years, the title "Resident Evil" has undergone many changes and adaptations. The game has been released in various forms, including films, television shows, and novels, and each adaptation has had its own unique take on the title.
In the films, the title has been adapted to "Resident Evil: The Movie" and "Resident Evil: Apocalypse," among others. The films have also explored the idea of what it means to be a "resident" of a place, with the characters in the films facing off against monstrous creatures that threaten their existence.
The Significance of the Title
The title "Resident Evil" has become synonymous with survival horror, and the game has had a significant impact on the gaming industry. The game’s unique blend of action and horror elements has made it a beloved franchise among gamers, and the title has become a staple of popular culture.
In conclusion, the title "Resident Evil" reflects the game’s theme of a horror movie, with the word "Resident" referring to the living and "Evil" referring to the monstrous creatures that the players must face. The title has undergone many changes and adaptations over the years, but its significance as a symbol of survival horror remains unchanged.