What is the Canon Ending of Resident Evil 1 Remake?
The Resident Evil 1 remake is a classic survival horror game that has been rekindled with modern graphics and mechanics. But have you ever wondered what is considered the canon ending of this game? Or, for that matter, are there even multiple endings? To answer these questions, let’s dive into the lore of Resident Evil and explore the different possibilities.
What Happened in Resident Evil 1?
For those who may not be familiar, Resident Evil 1 follows the story of Chris Redfield, a member of the elite counter-terrorism unit known as S.T.A.R.S. (Special Tactics and Rescue Service), as he investigates a series of strange occurrences at a mysterious mansion in Raccoon City. As Chris, players must navigate the treacherous paths of the mansion, fight off hordes of undead creatures, and uncover the secrets behind the sinister forces that are seeking to take over the city.
Ending 1: Chris’s Ending (The True Canon?)
According to Capcom, the creators of Resident Evil 1, the true canon ending for this game is actually Chris’s ending, not Jill’s. This is because Chris, as the protagonist, is the character that players control for the majority of the game, and his story arc concludes in a more definitive manner.
Here’s a summary of Chris’s ending: after escaping the mansion, Chris helps Jill, a member of STARS Alpha Team, escape by fighting off hordes of monsters and solving puzzles. Together, they uncover the dark secrets behind the creation of the T-virus, the bioterrorism agent responsible for the outbreak, and ultimately, prevent it from spreading further.
Jill’s Ending: The Alternate View
But what about Jill, the other main character in the game? Players who control Jill in the game will receive an alternate ending, one that deviates significantly from Chris’s storyline. In Jill’s ending, she finds herself trapped in a prison, with no clear memory of how she got there. As the story progresses, she uncovers her past and eventually escapes, albeit with some difficulty.
The important point here is that Jill’s ending is not considered the true canon ending. According to Capcom, Jill’s storyline is simply an alternate perspective, giving players a different view of the events as they unfolded.
Resident Evil 1’s Legacy
Resident Evil 1’s unique storytelling mechanic, which offers multiple endings depending on player choice, has since become a standard feature in the series. This was a bold move at the time, as most games at the release date were content with a single definitive ending. Capcom’s decision to offer alternate endings allowed players to experience multiple perspectives on the story, adding layers of depth to the game’s world.
The Significance of Both Endings
Both Chris’s and Jill’s endings offer significant insights into the characters’ motivations and backstories. While Chris’s ending focuses on the immediate threat posed by the T-virus, Jill’s ending explores her personal struggles and resilience in the face of adversity.
Which Ending Should You Choose?
This is the age-old debate among fans of the series. Both endings offer unique and thrilling conclusions to the story. However, if you want to stick to the canon storyline, Chris’s ending is the way to go. This is the "official" conclusion to the game’s story, and many fans argue that it provides the more satisfying ending.
On the other hand, playing as Jill can offer a fresh and exciting perspective on the story. Her storyline delves deeper into the psychological aspects of trauma and recovery, making for a powerful and thought-provoking experience.
Final Thoughts
Resident Evil 1’s canon ending is a topic of endless debate among fans of the series. While Jill’s ending is not considered the true canon conclusion, it still offers a compelling perspective on the events of the game.
As a gamer, it’s difficult to resist the temptation to play through multiple playthroughs to experience both endings. The choice is ultimately up to you – do you want to explore the thrilling adventure of Chris, or immerse yourself in Jill’s personal struggles? Whichever path you choose, both endings offer an unforgettable experience within the world of Resident Evil.