What is Resident Evil 7 JP Called?
When it comes to the Resident Evil series, there is a subtle yet significant difference between the game’s title in Japan and its Western counterpart. Biohazard is the name that the Japanese fans know and love, while in the West, it is commonly referred to as Resident Evil. But what’s the story behind this fascinating difference? Let’s dive into the world of horror and exploration to find out.
The Origins of Biohazard
In Japan, the first Resident Evil game was released under the title Biohazard in 1996. This was not a mere translation error, but a deliberate choice made by Capcom, the developers of the game. Biohazard is a Japanese term that literally means "biological hazard," reflecting the game’s focus on biological experimentation gone wrong.
The Connection to Western Release
Fast-forward to 2002, when the game was released in the West as Resident Evil. At that time, Capcom discovered that the name Biohazard was already trademarked in the United States by another company, which made it difficult for them to market the game under its original title.
Resident Evil 7: The Return to Biohazard
So, what’s the deal with Resident Evil 7, the latest installment in the series? In Japan, it is still known as Biohazard, while in the West, it’s called Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. This time around, the developers at Capcom decided to pay homage to the game’s Japanese roots by adopting the original title, albeit with a slight modification to include "Resident Evil" as a subtitle.
A Brief History of Resident Evil Titles
Here’s a quick rundown of the Resident Evil titles and their corresponding Japanese names:
- Resident Evil 1 (1996) – Biohazard (Japan)
- Resident Evil 2 (1998) – Biohazard 2 (Japan)
- Resident Evil 3 (1999) – Biohazard 3: Last Escape (Japan)
- Resident Evil 4 (2005) – Biohazard 4 (Japan)
- Resident Evil 5 (2009) – Biohazard 5 (Japan)
- Resident Evil 6 (2012) – Biohazard 6 (Japan)
- Resident Evil 7 (2017) – Biohazard 7: Resident Evil (Japan)
Conclusion
In conclusion, the reason why Resident Evil 7 JP is called Biohazard is a mix of cultural heritage, trademark issues, and a nod to the series’ roots. While the Western audience is familiar with the title Resident Evil, the Japanese fans have always known the series as Biohazard. It’s fascinating to see how the developers at Capcom continue to honor the original title while adapting it for a global audience.
Timeline of Resident Evil Titles
Here’s a brief timeline of the Resident Evil series, including its Japanese titles:
| Game | Western Title | Japanese Title | Release Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Resident Evil | Biohazard | 1996 |
| 2 | Resident Evil 2 | Biohazard 2 | 1998 |
| 3 | Resident Evil 3 | Biohazard 3: Last Escape | 1999 |
| 4 | Resident Evil 4 | Biohazard 4 | 2005 |
| 5 | Resident Evil 5 | Biohazard 5 | 2009 |
| 6 | Resident Evil 6 | Biohazard 6 | 2012 |
| 7 | Resident Evil 7: Biohazard | Biohazard 7: Resident Evil | 2017 |
What’s Next for the Series?
With the latest installment in the series, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, the door is open for new storylines, characters, and gameplay mechanics. As we look forward to the next chapter in the Resident Evil saga, it’s clear that the series will continue to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide.
A New Era for Resident Evil
As we wrap up this article, it’s clear that the Resident Evil series is more than just a franchise – it’s a cultural phenomenon that has captivated audiences for decades. From its humble beginnings as Biohazard in Japan to its global reach as Resident Evil, the series has come a long way. As we enter a new era for Resident Evil, one thing is certain: the future is bright, and the series will continue to thrill and terrify us for years to come.