Is Resident Evil Outbreak Canon?
In the vast universe of Resident Evil, there are several games, movies, and other media that explore the horror and action-packed world created by Capcom. One of the most intriguing spin-offs is Resident Evil: Outbreak, a series of games that has left fans wondering if it’s a part of the main canon. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Resident Evil: Outbreak and provide a definitive answer to this question.
What is Resident Evil: Outbreak?
Resident Evil: Outbreak is a series of survival horror games developed by Capcom, released between 2003 and 2004. The games are part of the Resident Evil franchise, but are not directly connected to the main storylines of the games. The Outbreak series consists of two games, Outbreak and Outbreak File #2, which take place during the same time period as Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3: Nemesis.
Is Resident Evil: Outbreak Canon?
According to Capcom, Resident Evil: Outbreak is indeed part of the Resident Evil canon. The games take place during the same time period as other Resident Evil games, and feature characters and settings that are familiar to fans of the franchise.
Evidence of Canon Status
There are several pieces of evidence that suggest Resident Evil: Outbreak is part of the Resident Evil canon:
- Posters and references: Both Outbreak games feature posters and references to other Resident Evil games, such as Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3: Nemesis. These nods to other games in the series suggest a deeper connection between the Outbreak series and the main Resident Evil storyline.
- Canonical characters: Characters from other Resident Evil games, such as Raccoon City Police Department officers, make appearances in Outbreak. This blurs the line between the two games, suggesting a shared universe.
- Story connections: Outbreak File #2 features a storyline that connects directly to Resident Evil 2. The game’s climax involves a character from Resident Evil 2, further solidifying its position within the canon.
Why it Matters
So, why does the canonical status of Resident Evil: Outbreak matter? For fans of the series, knowing that Outbreak is part of the canon provides a deeper understanding of the Resident Evil universe. It also opens up possibilities for exploring the series’ lore and connecting the dots between different games.
Consequences for the Canon
If Outbreak is indeed part of the canon, it raises questions about the consequences for the larger Resident Evil universe. For example:
- Impact on character relationships: The characters from Outbreak, such as Angela Miller and Mark Wilkins, may have connections to other characters in the series. This could have significant implications for their backstories and relationships.
- Expansion of the Resident Evil universe: Including Outbreak in the canon may expand the Resident Evil universe, adding new locations, characters, and storylines that can be explored in future games or movies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Resident Evil: Outbreak is indeed part of the Resident Evil canon. The game’s references to other Resident Evil games, canonical characters, and story connections all suggest a deep connection to the main storyline. For fans of the series, this adds a new layer of depth to the Resident Evil universe and provides opportunities for exploring the series’ lore and connecting the dots between different games.