Why is Resident Evil Called Like That? Unraveling the Naming Mystery of a Horror Icon
The simple answer is that Resident Evil was chosen as the title for the North American and European release of the game originally known as Biohazard in Japan because of trademark issues. “Biohazard” was already in use, making it impossible to secure legal rights to the name in those regions. Faced with this obstacle, Capcom held a company-wide contest to find a new, catchy, and relevant title. The winning entry, “Resident Evil,” was a pun, cleverly alluding to the fact that the game’s horrifying events unfolded primarily within a mansion, a “residence” now plagued by “evil.” Thus, a legendary franchise was christened with a name that has since become synonymous with survival horror.
Delving Deeper: The Name’s Significance and Origins
The selection of Resident Evil wasn’t just a matter of legal necessity; it also captured the essence of the game’s core themes. The mansion, a seemingly normal residence, becomes a stage for unspeakable horrors. The very concept of a familiar, safe place being corrupted by evil is central to the game’s appeal.
The story behind the naming showcases the importance of branding and marketing in the gaming industry. The creative process leading to “Resident Evil” illustrates how necessity can indeed be the mother of invention. Moreover, the naming story highlights the need to consider that trademarks and legal issues are necessary in order to globally launch a product.
Sweet Home: A Spiritual Predecessor
Adding another layer to the story is the game “Sweet Home,” a horror title developed by Capcom itself and released for the NES in 1989. Widely considered a precursor to survival horror, “Sweet Home” significantly inspired the gameplay and atmosphere of the original Resident Evil. The title’s connection to a mansion setting and its focus on survival may have played an unconscious part in Capcom’s choice of name.
Frequently Asked Questions About Resident Evil
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further illuminate the origins, themes, and cultural impact of the Resident Evil franchise:
-
What was the original name of Resident Evil in Japan?
The game was originally called Biohazard in Japan (バイオハザード, Baiohazādo).
-
Why couldn’t Capcom use the name Biohazard in North America and Europe?
The name Biohazard was already trademarked by another entity, making it impossible for Capcom to secure legal rights to use it in those regions.
-
Who came up with the name Resident Evil?
The name was chosen during a company-wide contest at Capcom. While the exact individual who submitted the winning entry is not widely publicized, Chris Kramer, the Director of Communications at Capcom, played a significant role in identifying the trademark conflict and initiating the renaming process.
-
Is the name Resident Evil grammatically correct?
While the phrasing might seem slightly unusual, the title is intentionally evocative. “Resident” can be interpreted as an adjective describing the “evil” that “resides” in the mansion. It prioritizes impact and thematic resonance over strict grammatical precision. Resident evil does not directly translate to “a place where evil resides,” but implies an evil presence inhabiting a location.
-
What is Resident Evil based on?
The original Resident Evil drew inspiration from various sources, including George A. Romero’s zombie films, Italian horror films, and Capcom’s own Sweet Home.
-
Is the Resident Evil series sexualized?
The portrayal of female characters in the Resident Evil series has often been a subject of debate. While some designs have been criticized for excessive sexualization, later entries have attempted to offer more nuanced and empowering representations.
-
Why was the Resident Evil Netflix series canceled?
Despite initial viewership, the Resident Evil Netflix series was canceled due to a combination of factors, including negative reviews, a perceived lack of faithfulness to the source material, and broader challenges faced by Netflix during that period.
-
Is Resident Evil 9 in development?
While Capcom has not officially announced Resident Evil 9, industry rumors and reports suggest that it is in development and could potentially be revealed in 2024 for a possible release in 2025.
-
What language do the Ganados speak in Resident Evil 4?
The Ganados in Resident Evil 4 speak Spanish. Their dialogue often provides insights into their motivations and the nature of Las Plagas.
-
Who is considered the “prettiest” Resident Evil character?
Beauty is subjective, but popular choices often include Jill Valentine, Ada Wong, Claire Redfield, and Lady Dimitrescu. Each character possesses a distinct aesthetic appeal.
-
What is the opposite of Resident Evil in terms of game design and theme?
The Last of Us has been described as a thematic counterpoint to Resident Evil. While both explore post-apocalyptic scenarios, The Last of Us focuses more on character development, emotional storytelling, and human relationships within a ravaged world.
-
Where is Raccoon City located?
Raccoon City’s precise location is never explicitly stated within the games, but references suggest it is located in the Midwestern United States. The novelizations place it in Pennsylvania.
-
What is the underlying message or theme of Resident Evil?
The Resident Evil series often explores themes of corporate greed, bioethics, the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition, and the fragility of human civilization in the face of unforeseen threats.
-
Who invented Resident Evil?
The first Resident Evil game was created by Shinji Mikami and Tokuro Fujiwara. Mikami is often credited as the primary architect of the game’s design and vision.
-
Why is Resident Evil considered scary?
Resident Evil’s scares stem from a combination of factors, including limited resources, claustrophobic environments, grotesque monster designs, suspenseful atmosphere, and the constant threat of the unknown. The original game’s fixed camera angles also contributed to the sense of vulnerability and unease.
Resident Evil: A Legacy Forged in Horror
From its humble beginnings as Biohazard to its current status as a global phenomenon, Resident Evil has consistently captivated players with its blend of suspense, action, and chilling atmosphere. The name itself, born out of necessity, has become synonymous with a particular brand of survival horror that continues to evolve and redefine the genre. As the GamesLearningSociety.org knows, the Resident Evil franchise has contributed significantly to gaming and culture.
The success and longevity of the franchise demonstrate the power of a well-crafted name and a compelling narrative. The name Resident Evil is a testament to the creativity of the marketing department and the lasting impact of a story well-told. As gaming and its surrounding community change, the Resident Evil series remains a pivotal source of inspiration and entertainment.