Is Resident Evil 7 a Zombie Game?
The survival horror game series Resident Evil, known for its spine-chilling atmosphere and gruesome monsters, has always kept fans curious about its zombies. Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is the latest installment in the series, and it raises questions about the presence of zombies. In this article, we’ll dive into the answers and explore what makes RE7 different from its predecessors.
What Type of Game is Resident Evil 7?
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is a first-person survival horror game that takes players through a thrilling adventure filled with puzzles, exploration, and combat. The game is set in a derelict plantation in Louisiana, where protagonist Ethan Winters is on a quest to find his missing wife. Biohazard refers to the bio-organic parasites that are the source of the virus that infects humans, transforming them into grotesque creatures.
Do Zombies Exist in Resident Evil 7?
In an interview with Game Informer, Hideki Kamiya, the game’s director, stated that Resident Evil 7 does not feature traditional zombies. Kamiya-san explained that while the Baker family, who are central to the story, can be seen as "undead" and exhibit some zombie-like characteristics, they are not truly zombies.
What Does Resident Evil 7 Mean by "Undead"?
According to the game’s storyline, the infected family members, including Marguerite, Lucas, and Jack, have become mutated through the effects of the Mold, a mysterious fungal parasite. They exhibit traits common to traditional zombies, such as reanimation after death, aggression, and a craving for human flesh. However, these creatures retain some semblance of human consciousness and display complex behavior, unlike your typical run-of-the-mill zombie.
Where Do Traditional Zombies Fit into the Equation?
Now, what about traditional zombies, those mindless, flesh-eating hordes that typically populate Resident Evil games? There aren’t any in Resident Evil 7. According to an interview with Shinsaku Ohara, the game’s producer, the absence of traditional zombies was a deliberate choice made to differentiate RE7 from previous installments. By focusing on the Baker family’s infection and the consequences of the Mold, the game introduces a new spin on the Resident Evil horror formula.
Table of Monsters and Enemies
Here’s a breakdown of the various creatures and enemies that inhabit the world of Resident Evil 7:
| Monster | Description | Notable Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Mold-worms | Amoeba-like creatures with a Mold-infested central mass. | Infects humans and animals, eventually transforming them into mutated, humanoid forms. |
| Humanoids | Infected humans who exhibit zombie-like behavior, driven by an insatiable hunger for human flesh. | Display complex behavior, such as problem-solving, and can be killed in creative ways. |
| Hounds | Canine creatures infected by the Mold, exhibiting abnormal behavior. | Can attack and chase Ethan, while also possessing a certain intelligence. |
Is Resident Evil 7 a Scarier Game?
RE7 has received praise for its psychological horror elements and ability to create tension and fear. The absence of traditional zombies allows the game to focus on the atmospheric setting and the sense of vulnerability. Without a clear target to aim at, fear becomes more personalized and individualized, making the experience more terrifying for the player.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Resident Evil 7 is not a zombie game in the classical sense. The absence of traditional zombies allows the game to focus on new terror elements, such as the mutated humanoid creatures and Mold-worms. RE7 has carved out a unique place in the survival horror genre, offering a fresh perspective on the franchise’s characteristic blend of tension, atmosphere, and dread. So, if you’re ready to experience the horror genre in a new light, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard awaits.