Is Resident Evil 7 Related to 8?
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, the seventh installment in the beloved survival horror franchise, set the stage for a thrilling new direction in the series. With its focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat, RE7 revitalized the Resident Evil franchise, paving the way for its successor, Resident Evil 8: Village. In this article, we’ll delve into the connections between RE7 and RE8, exploring how the two games are intertwined and what this means for fans of the series.
Direct Continuation
The most obvious connection between RE7 and RE8 is the direct continuation of the story. Resident Evil 8: Village picks up three years after the events of RE7, with Ethan Winters returning as the protagonist. This continuity ensures that players will be immersed in the world and characters they’ve grown to love, with RE8 building upon the events and themes of its predecessor.
Chris Redfield’s Return
Another significant connection between the two games is the return of Chris Redfield, a mainstay of the Resident Evil franchise. In RE8, Chris plays a central role, his actions sparking a chain of events that draw Ethan back into the world of survival horror. Chris’s return serves as a reminder of the franchise’s rich history and its iconic characters, providing a sense of continuity and familiarity for fans.
Shared Characters and Locations
RE7 and RE8 share a number of characters and locations, further solidifying their connection. Ethan Winters, as mentioned earlier, returns as the protagonist in RE8, while other characters from RE7, such as Mia Winters and Jack Baker, make appearances in the new game. The games also share locations, with RE8 featuring familiar environments like the Baker Estate and the ruins of the Molded. These shared elements create a sense of continuity, drawing players into the world of Resident Evil and its characters.
Story Themes and Symbolism
Both RE7 and RE8 explore similar themes and symbolism, adding depth and complexity to the franchise. The concept of family, for example, is a recurring theme in both games, with characters struggling to come to terms with their pasts and the traumas they’ve experienced. The use of symbolism, such as the Molded and the Village’s eerie atmosphere, serves to reinforce these themes, creating a sense of cohesion between the two games.
Gameplay Mechanics
While RE7 and RE8 share some similarities in terms of gameplay mechanics, they also introduce new features and innovations. RE8, for example, incorporates more action-oriented elements, such as melee combat and puzzles, while RE7 focuses on exploration and stealth. These differences in gameplay serve to keep the series fresh and exciting, while also providing a sense of continuity and familiarity for fans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Resident Evil 7 and Resident Evil 8 are deeply connected, sharing a rich history, iconic characters, and a deep sense of continuity. The games’ direct storyline, shared characters and locations, and exploration of similar themes and symbolism all serve to create a sense of cohesion between the two games. Whether you’re a new fan of the series or a veteran player, RE7 and RE8 are must-play experiences that offer a thrilling new direction for the Resident Evil franchise.