Who Is the Main Main Character in Resident Evil?
The question of a singular “main” character in the Resident Evil franchise is more complex than it initially appears. Unlike some series with a clear, overarching protagonist, Resident Evil shifts its focus between several key figures across its numerous installments. While there isn’t one definitive “main main” character who carries the entirety of the narrative on their shoulders, if we must pinpoint a character who embodies the core themes, has a significant presence across multiple games, and is often positioned at the heart of major events, it would undoubtedly be Chris Redfield.
While the series has a multitude of prominent protagonists, Chris Redfield stands out due to his longevity, consistent involvement in major story arcs, and his crucial role in combating the Bio-Organic Weapons (B.O.W.) threat. He is frequently placed in situations that are pivotal to the series’ larger narrative.
Chris Redfield: The Enduring Face of Resident Evil
Early Days and Establishing the Hero
Chris Redfield first appeared in the original Resident Evil (1996) as a member of the Special Tactics and Rescue Service (S.T.A.R.S.) team. This initial appearance alongside Jill Valentine established him as a foundational character within the franchise. His survival of the Spencer Mansion incident and subsequent pursuit of Umbrella Corporation’s activities set the stage for his recurring role.
A Consistently Present Force
Unlike other prominent characters like Leon S. Kennedy, who often have distinct storylines within specific games, Chris Redfield’s story is frequently intertwined with the series’ overall direction. His absence in Resident Evil 2 was noted and later explained in other titles, further emphasizing his crucial role. He reappears in Resident Evil Code: Veronica and plays a vital role in stopping the villainous Albert Wesker in Resident Evil 5, a direct continuation of his personal narrative against Wesker that started in the original game.
Chris’s repeated confrontations with biological threats demonstrate his enduring dedication to fighting against the forces that unleash these horrors. His involvement in major events, such as the Bioterrorism Security Assessment Alliance (BSAA), and his role in battling global outbreaks solidify his central role in the narrative.
More Than Just a Survivor
While Chris initially comes across as a skilled officer in the first game, his character is later developed and refined into a hardened veteran who is determined to eradicate B.O.W.s and those who create them. He is more than just a survivor; he’s a highly trained operative, often leading missions with tactical expertise and sheer determination. This evolution further solidifies his position as a cornerstone protagonist. His role extends beyond personal survival, as he shoulders the responsibility of protecting the world from bio-terrorism. This sense of duty, seen in games such as Resident Evil 5 and Resident Evil Village, firmly establishes his place as a key protagonist for the series.
Popularity and Recognition
As stated in the provided text, Chris Redfield is currently the most popular Resident Evil main character. His presence in a substantial number of games (mentioned as 11) compared to the likes of Leon (7 games), solidifies his importance as a face of the franchise. This consistent presence has helped maintain his popularity with fans.
While other characters like Leon, Jill, and Claire have their own devoted followings, Chris’s character arc is arguably the most consistently focused on the overarching series narrative, making him, despite the varied protagonists of the game, the most fitting character to be called the main main protagonist of the entire franchise. He’s always ready to face the worst the Resident Evil universe throws at him, making him a true symbol of heroism within the franchise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are there main characters in Resident Evil?
Yes, but there isn’t one single main character throughout the entire franchise. The series features several key protagonists who are central to various games, including Chris Redfield, Leon S. Kennedy, Jill Valentine, and Claire Redfield. However, their roles and importance often vary from game to game.
2. Who was the first playable character in the series?
Jill Valentine and Chris Redfield were the first playable characters, both appearing in the original Resident Evil game in 1996.
3. Who is the strongest Resident Evil character?
While opinions vary, Chris Redfield is often cited as one of the physically strongest, demonstrating feats like punching boulders. However, characters like Albert Wesker with enhanced abilities also rank highly in overall strength and fighting skill.
4. How does Leon compare to Chris in terms of strength?
Chris is generally considered to be stronger than Leon physically. While Leon may have superior combat skills in some areas, Chris’s raw strength is a standout feature of his character.
5. Who is the main male character in Resident Evil?
Chris Redfield is often considered the primary male protagonist due to his repeated involvement in critical storyline events and his long-standing presence in the series.
6. Is Leon Kennedy in Resident Evil 7?
No, Leon Kennedy is not a character in Resident Evil 7. The game introduces a new protagonist, Ethan Winters, and focuses on a different storyline within the series’ universe.
7. Who is the main female protagonist of Resident Evil?
Jill Valentine is arguably the most prominent female protagonist in the series, with a history spanning many games and significant roles in major events.
8. Who is the weakest character in the series?
Ashley Graham, from Resident Evil 4, is often considered one of the weakest characters due to her lack of combat abilities and constant need for rescue.
9. Who is the most annoying character in the franchise?
Ashley Graham is often cited by fans as one of the most irritating characters due to her gameplay mechanics in Resident Evil 4, where she needs constant protection.
10. Who is the main villain in Resident Evil?
Albert Wesker is widely regarded as the main antagonist due to his extensive involvement in the series’ overarching narrative and his desire to achieve godhood through the T-Virus.
11. What made Resident Evil 7 scary?
Resident Evil 7 gained popularity for its return to the horror roots of the series, emphasizing isolation, psychological terror, and intense close-quarters combat with menacing antagonists like the Baker family.
12. Is Albert Wesker bulletproof?
While not literally bulletproof, Wesker’s enhanced physiology grants him incredible durability, making him highly resistant to bullets and physical attacks.
13. Who is the prettiest Resident Evil girl?
This is subjective, but many fans consider characters like Ada Wong, Claire Redfield, and Jill Valentine to be among the most attractive female characters in the series. The provided text also mentions Sheva Alomar, Rebecca Chambers, and Lady Dimitrescu as very popular.
14. Who created the T-Virus?
The original T-Virus was created by Dr. James Marcus through his research on leeches, as revealed in Resident Evil 0.
15. Are there any LGBT characters in Resident Evil?
Yes, the series has introduced a few LGBT characters. Crispin Jettingham (Dee-Ay) was revealed to be gay, though it was mentioned after the fact, not in the games themselves.