Why wasn’t Leon in Resident Evil 7?
The Resident Evil series has seen the rise and fall of iconic characters, and one of the most beloved and recognizable faces is Leon S. Kennedy. Fans of the series have always wondered why Leon, who has been a central character in the series since Resident Evil 2, was not a part of Resident Evil 7. This article will delve into the reasons behind Leon’s absence and explore the implications it has on the series.
Capcom’s Explanation
In an interview with Gamespot, Capcom’s voice actor for Leon S. Kennedy, Fred Tatasciore, revealed that Capcom had indeed planned to include Leon in Resident Evil 7, but ultimately decided against it. Capcom is "scaling back" the use of the usual characters, meaning they are focusing on introducing new characters and storylines to keep the series fresh and exciting. This decision was likely made to allow for a more substantial and impactful storyline in Resident Evil 7, rather than relying on familiar characters to carry the narrative.
Newer Characters Take Center Stage
Resident Evil 7 introduced a new cast of characters, including Ethan Winters, the game’s protagonist, and his wife, Mia. This shift in focus towards new characters allowed for a fresh take on the series, exploring different themes and storylines. The introduction of new characters also enabled the development of more complex and nuanced characters, with the likes of Eveline and Chris Redfield taking center stage.
Leon’s Role in the Series
Leon S. Kennedy has been a pivotal character in the Resident Evil series, starting from his debut in Resident Evil 2 as a rookie cop. Throughout the series, Leon has evolved from a hero to a more complex and troubled character, facing numerous challenges and struggles. Despite his absence in Resident Evil 7, Leon’s legacy continues to influence the series, with his actions in previous games having a significant impact on the world of Resident Evil.
Comparison to Other Games
Table: Comparison of Leon’s Role in Previous Games
| Game | Leon’s Role | Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Evil 2 | Rookie cop | Saves Raccoon City, kills William Birkin |
| Resident Evil 4 | Secret Agent | Saves Ashley Graham, discovers Las Plagas |
| Resident Evil 6 | BSAA Operative | Fights against bioterrorism, discovers Veltro |
| Resident Evil Revelations 2 | BSAA Operative | Fights against Moira Burton, discovers Afflicted |
As seen in the table above, Leon has played a significant role in several Resident Evil games, often serving as a hero or a key player in the story. His absence in Resident Evil 7 has allowed for the introduction of new characters and storylines, but his legacy continues to shape the series.
Fan Reaction
Fans of the series have been divided on Leon’s absence in Resident Evil 7. Some fans appreciate the introduction of new characters and storylines, while others expressed disappointment and frustration over Leon’s absence. Online discussions and forums have been filled with debates over the decision, with some arguing that Leon’s character is an integral part of the series, while others see the introduction of new characters as a necessary change.
Conclusion
The absence of Leon S. Kennedy in Resident Evil 7 has sparked a heated debate among fans, but ultimately, Capcom’s decision to scale back the use of the usual characters has allowed for a fresh take on the series. The introduction of new characters and storylines has brought a new level of excitement and complexity to the series, while Leon’s legacy continues to shape the world of Resident Evil. As the series continues to evolve, fans can look forward to new characters and storylines that will keep the series fresh and engaging.