Why Did They Change RE7?
Capcom’s Resident Evil series has undergone significant changes throughout its history, and one of the most notable ones is the shift from Resident Evil 6 to Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this change and what it means for the franchise.
New Beginnings
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard marked a new direction for the series, abandoning the action-oriented gameplay of RE6 and returning to its horror roots. According to Koshi Nakanishi, the director of RE7, the game’s development was influenced by the success of independent horror games like Amnesia: The Dark Descent and Slender: The Eight Pages. These games emphasized psychological horror and atmospheric tension, which Capcom aimed to incorporate into RE7.
Photo-Scan Technology
One of the most significant changes in RE7 was the introduction of photo-scan technology. This technology allowed the development team to create highly realistic character models by scanning real people’s faces and bodies. This resulted in characters that looked more human and lifelike, making the game’s horror elements even more effective.
Immersive Experience
Another key aspect of RE7 was its focus on creating an immersive experience. The game’s first-person perspective, paired with its creepy atmosphere and sound design, allowed players to feel like they were actually exploring the haunted plantation mansion. This shift in perspective also allowed players to connect more deeply with the game’s protagonist, Ethan Winters.
Gameplay Changes
In addition to its new narrative direction and photo-scan technology, RE7 introduced several gameplay changes. Stealth and exploration replaced the action-oriented gameplay of RE6, allowing players to approach situations more carefully and strategically. This shift in gameplay also encouraged players to explore the environment, find hidden items, and solve puzzles.
A Return to Horror
By returning to its horror roots, RE7 successfully revitalized the series. The game’s horror elements, such as its creepy atmosphere, terrifying enemies, and jump scares, were more effective than ever before. This emphasis on horror also allowed Capcom to explore new themes and ideas, such as the psychological trauma experienced by the game’s protagonist.
Comparison to Previous Games
Here’s a comparison of RE7 to previous Resident Evil games:
| Game | Release Year | Genre | Perspective |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Evil 1 | 1996 | Survival Horror | Third-Person |
| Resident Evil 2 | 1998 | Survival Horror | Third-Person |
| Resident Evil 3 | 1999 | Survival Horror | Third-Person |
| Resident Evil 4 | 2005 | Action-Adventure | Third-Person |
| Resident Evil 6 | 2012 | Action-Adventure | Third-Person |
| Resident Evil 7 | 2017 | Survival Horror | First-Person |
As you can see, RE7 marked a significant departure from the series’ previous games, both in terms of its narrative direction and gameplay mechanics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, RE7’s changes were necessary to revitalize the series and bring it back to its horror roots. The introduction of photo-scan technology, immersive experience, and stealth and exploration gameplay mechanics all contributed to the game’s success. By returning to its horror roots, RE7 successfully reinvigorated the franchise, paving the way for future Resident Evil games.
Key Takeaways:
- RE7’s new narrative direction and gameplay mechanics were influenced by independent horror games like Amnesia and Slender.
- The game’s photo-scan technology allowed for highly realistic character models.
- RE7’s focus on stealth and exploration gameplay encouraged players to approach situations more carefully and strategically.
- The game’s horror elements, such as its creepy atmosphere and terrifying enemies, were more effective than ever before.
- RE7’s changes marked a significant departure from the series’ previous games, both in terms of narrative direction and gameplay mechanics.