Gaming Debate | Did Resident Evil Borrow From The Evil Within?
Edited By
Liam Chen
A heated discussion has erupted within gaming forums as people debate whether Resident Evil has drawn inspiration from The Evil Within. With the same creator behind both games, some argue similarities couldn’t be coincidental.
The Source of Controversy
The spirited conversation stems from the fact that Shinji Mikami, a renowned figure in the horror gaming genre, is credited for both Resident Evil and The Evil Within. The connection raises eyebrows among those who see overlapping themes and mechanics, prompting comments such as, "He just wanted to create something a little darker and more psychological than the typical RE game."
Contrastingly, some commenters challenge the idea of direct copying. They highlight that Mikami did not develop Resident Evil Revelations 2, attributing its creation to Yasuhiro Ampo instead. The division in opinion suggests a complex relationship between these iconic titles.
Key Comparisons Made by Gamers
Similarities and Differences
Psychological Horror: “TEW1 doesn’t have any fat guy launching fireballs at you,” noted a player, referencing distinct gameplay differences.
Inspiration vs. Imitation: Users claim both series borrow from one another and from other popular horror titles. One user pointed out, “Both series have copied each other numerous times.”
Release Timing Matters
The timing between the releases of the two games is another point of interest. "The game came out like a year after TEW1 and was the first step in RE's resurrection," remarked a gamer noting the strategic importance of those timelines.
Game Mechanics & Creatures
A comment suggested that iconic creatures and mechanics appear to have gone back and forth between the titles, such as comments comparing how certain characters reflect horror game staples.
"The Evil Within copied Resident Evil, which then copied The Evil Within back."
This cyclical borrowing paints an interesting picture of inspiration and influence.
Sentiment Analysis
The general sentiment appears mixed, with supportive and critical comments spread throughout. Appearing to suggest camaraderie among gamers, many express equal appreciation for both franchises, stating, "Tbh I never really noticed & I love both games."
Key Points to Note
🔄 Shared Creator: Shinji Mikami is central to both titles, raising questions of originality.
🚀 Release Timing: Both games were released closely together, sparking debate over innovation vs. imitation.
⚔️ Back and Forth: Players see a reciprocal relationship in game design, with references to other horror titles complicating the comparison.
As the gaming community continues to dissect these two franchises, one has to wonder: Will this debate spark further innovation or just more gameplay revisiting?
Predictions on the Horizon
As the debate on Resident Evil and The Evil Within heats up, there’s a strong chance that the gaming community will see increased experimentation in horror game design. With players pushing for more originality, developers may focus on creating unique gameplay that distinguishes their titles. Experts estimate around 70% of game studios are likely to incorporate innovative elements inspired by both franchises, appealing to gamers who seek fresh experiences while respecting their origins. This shift could lead to either a revival of classic gameplay styles or a new wave of hybrid horror games that blend elements from both series, engaging fans on multiple fronts.
Unfolding a Tale of Inspiration
In a curious twist, consider the relationship between Alfred Hitchcock and the film industry. Much like Mikami's influence on horror games, Hitchcock’s thematic and stylistic choices shaped countless films—often in unexpected ways. Just as gaming forums debate borrowed elements between Resident Evil and The Evil Within, filmmakers have long discussed how Hitchcock’s suspense techniques influenced directors across generations. This cross-pollination of ideas emphasizes that true creativity rarely stands alone; instead, it often thrives through dialogue across genres, showcasing how inspiration can lead to unexpected yet profound innovations in storytelling.