Resident Evil

Resident Evil, known as Biohazard in Japan, is a survival horror video game franchise created by Capcom, first released in 1996. The series is one of the most successful and influential in the horror genre, known for its terrifying atmosphere, challenging gameplay, and intricate storylines involving bioweapons, zombies, and corporate conspiracy. The original game introduced players to the members of S.T.A.R.S. (Special Tactics and Rescue Service), including Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine, as they investigate a series of bizarre murders on the outskirts of Raccoon City, leading them to a mansion filled with horrors.

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Resident Evil is credited with defining the survival horror genre, featuring limited resources, tense exploration, and puzzle-solving elements that have become hallmarks of the series. The game's success led to numerous sequels, spin-offs, and remakes, each expanding on the complex lore involving the Umbrella Corporation, viral outbreaks, and a wide array of grotesque creatures.

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The franchise's influence extends beyond video games, spawning a successful film series starring Milla Jovovich, animated movies, novels, and comic books. The Resident Evil films, while taking creative liberties with the source material, have contributed to the franchise's global popularity, making it one of the highest-grossing video game adaptations in film history.

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Over the years, Resident Evil has evolved, with later games like Resident Evil 4 (2005) shifting towards a more action-oriented approach, while still retaining the horror elements that fans love. The series saw a return to its survival horror roots with Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017), which introduced a first-person perspective and a more intimate, terrifying experience.