Resident Evil, the worldwide horror phenomenon by Capcom, has been a cornerstone in gaming. The series, also known in Japan as Biohazard, has lived on for decades and reached countless generations of players. Whether it is the first turn of the zombie’s head in Resident Evil to the iconic remake of the action-packed Resident Evil 4, and everything in between. The series is jammed with plenty of experiences. While many are anticipating the announcement of a Resident Evil 5 remake, we know that a new title in the form of Resident Evil 9 is coming and that previous director Koshi Nakanishi will be helming it. However, what does this mean for the newest entry in the Resident Evil series?
Koshi Nakanishi is no stranger to Resident Evil. The director previously drove the high-definition return to horror with Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. The title placed players in the first-person shoes of Ethan Winters, an everyday guy looking to save his wife, Mia. Because of this, we may have our first notion of what to expect for Resident Evil 9. As an avid series fan, I have experienced its highs and lows. Resident Evil 7 was a return to true survival horror and something that helped bring the series back to its glorious form. In my mind, players will likely experience a dark, terrifying tone to the setting of the newest entry. Additionally, players needing to focus more on conserving ammo and healing supplies rather than being a Resident Evil form of an unstoppable hitman suits this theme.
Resident Evil 7 had players feel like the small fish in a big sea. Koshi Nakanishi is the main reason behind this development choice, and I see no reason why it won’t return. The formula works well in Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, so it only makes sense.
A Familiar Perspective and Setting Could Come to Resident Evil 9
Players could also expect Resident Evil 9 to adopt the same first-person camera perspective. Resident Evil 7: Biohazard offered the experience and created a tension that could not be shaken until the credits. While Resident Evil: Village was also first-person, it felt more like an action-horror. Because Nakanishi provided both the first-person and horror setting, they work well in unison, and it’s all but sure to be something to see in Resident Evil 9.
Furthermore, as RE7 was a more linear title, it is possible that we could see this type of world return in the new entry. Having played various titles, I like the mix-up between linear areas and biomes and the titles that offer a more open-world experience. However, when it comes to Nakanishi’s work, it is best suited if players can play a horror Resident Evil title on a linear path. That way, the set pieces and scary atmospheres may not be missed by not exploring certain areas. The feeling of dread of having to explore a creepy basement to progress is almost electrifying. While I’m not the biggest horror connoisseur, getting to feel the spine-chilling moments within Resident Evil 7 is well worth it.
Resident Evil 9’s Environment Could Return to True Feelings of Terror
Regarding the setting, I would expect to follow a similar pattern. As previously stated, open worlds can feel less atmospheric in terms of horror. However, by placing the players in a claustrophobic environment where they have to keep pushing forward, Nakanishi nails it. The success of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard relies a lot on the environment. Having players shudder while turning each corner and being cautious of jumpscares makes the game a standout in the series.
Whether players get to experience gloomy castle dungeons, exquisite mansions, or somewhere else entirely, Nakanishi is likely to up the ante by making it a dark and terrifying scenario for both the player and the character. Seeing what Koshi conjured up with Resident Evil 7: Biohazard and the fact that he is returning for Resident Evil 9 is a great sign. I expect that players are going to have plenty of frights to contend with.
I am already excited for Resident Evil 9 and many others are as well. Seeing Nakanishi in the director’s chair will be a treat. However, we must wait for a full reveal to see what is to come.