What Resident Evil should Capcom remake next?
The recent string of Resident Evil remakes has captivated fans, reigniting excitement for the survival horror series. However, while a remake of Resident Evil 5 might seem logical, a closer examination reveals a significant hurdle: its inherent incompatibility with the high standards set by previous remakes.
The Flawed Foundation of Resident Evil 5
Resident Evil 5, released fifteen years ago, deviated substantially from the core tenets that defined the series’ early success. Instead of focusing on the tension and dread associated with its predecessors, it prioritized action-oriented gameplay mechanics. The cover-based shooting, vehicle chases, and over-reliance on powerful weaponry diminished the horror elements. This shift towards a more arcade-style approach, while successful in some quarters, ultimately marks a significant departure from the franchise’s original spirit. Instead of a chilling atmosphere, Resident Evil 5 presented an often sterile and less captivating experience.
Contrasting Styles: Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil 5
- Resident Evil 4: Mikami’s brilliant direction skillfully maintained the survival horror essence while incorporating kinetic action. The strategic positioning of enemies and the inclusion of a vulnerable character, Ashley, forced players to focus on survival and the fear-inducing nature of the encounters.
- Resident Evil 5: In contrast, Resident Evil 5 presented foes as mere obstacles, cannon fodder to be eliminated. The levels, devoid of meaningful exploration, are primarily functional conduits. This lack of authenticity and genuine atmosphere fundamentally diminishes their impact.
A Remake That Wouldn’t Measure Up
A faithful remake of Resident Evil 5 would, in many respects, represent a significant step backwards for Capcom. The game’s design flaws, notably its less immersive level structure, would be painfully apparent in a modern context, particularly in light of the excellent work on recent remakes.
The Unacceptable Nature of Racism
Resident Evil 5’s problematic portrayal of Africa and its people remains a considerable issue. The game depicts Black people as primitive and inherently violent before their infection, playing into harmful stereotypes. This, coupled with the over-reliance on action, further detracts from the horror elements and ultimately damages the narrative.
A Rewrite, Not A Remake
A true service to the franchise would involve a complete reimagining of Resident Evil 5. This new iteration could address the negative portrayals of people of color, while effectively updating the environment and scenario design. This new approach would emphasize the horror genre, a significant departure from the action-heavy approach taken in the original. Ignoring the past and reinventing the timeline, essentially rewriting it, would allow for a more meaningful experience. In essence, the project would be a new game—one more true to the spirit of Resident Evil.
Beyond the Remake: A Fresh Start
While remakes can refresh their source material, some games, like Resident Evil 5, may benefit more from a complete rewriting. The game’s core problems extend far beyond just its visual or technical aspects. A deep rethinking is essential to align the game with the modern sensibilities and values. The series needs a fresh perspective, and that fresh start should go beyond simple improvements. The game’s design, narrative, and sensitive portrayals of cultures and populations need a complete makeover to accurately reflect today’s standards.
Conclusion: A Necessary Rewrite
A remake of Resident Evil 5, at this point, would be a disservice to the franchise’s legacy and the series’s current strong position. Instead of a tedious and ultimately unsatisfactory update, Capcom would be best served by completely reinventing the game in the spirit of the more successful remakes to date. In a reimagining, Capcom could focus on a truly frightening and respectful portrayal of the themes, which will better suit modern audiences. This new iteration would represent a creative rebirth, honouring the legacy of the series in a way that addresses past flaws and positions itself for future success.
Leave a Reply