Should Resident Evil 9 Embrace a Popular Trend in Horror Gaming?

Resident Evil enthusiasts have been enjoying a resurgence in the iconic survival horror series, which can be traced back to its rejuvenation in 2017 with the release of Resident Evil 7. Since then, developer Capcom has effectively capitalized on this renewed interest, delivering a successful follow-up in Resident Evil Village and earning praise for the modern remakes of the classic Resident Evil 2-4 games.

With the series riding a wave of positive momentum, fans are eagerly anticipating what the studio has in store next and how it plans to keep Resident Evil on its winning streak.

The long-rumored Resident Evil 9 was recently confirmed to be in development, sparking excitement among fans. However, the direction this next major installment will take remains shrouded in mystery, leaving plenty of room for speculation. Given the narrative arcs and stylistic choices of Resident Evil 7 and Village, along with the rise of a particular subgenre, Capcom may be poised to make a significant shift. This time, Resident Evil could dive deeper into its sci-fi elements to continue its streak of success.

According to leaked information, remakes of Resident Evil Code: Veronica and Resident Evil 0 are expected to precede the ninth main installment, possibly delaying its release due to this schedule.

Embracing the Sci-Fi Horror Trend Could Elevate Resident Evil 9

While science fiction has long been intertwined with the broader horror genre, recent years have seen a notable rise in sci-fi horror gaming. The 2023 remake of Dead Space stands out as one of the most high-profile releases in this subgenre, echoing the impact of the original, which sparked a previous wave of similar games. Upcoming titles like STALKER 2 and Directive 8020 are among the most anticipated horror games, heavily influenced by sci-fi elements that promise to deliver a unique blend of fear and fascination.

Resident Evil has always had sci-fi woven into its DNA, with Umbrella Corporation's dark experiments in virus engineering, cloning, and mind control shaping the series since its inception. However, with the current surge in sci-fi horror and the visionary themes explored in Resident Evil 7, Village, and the Resident Evil 4 remake, there’s a strong case for Resident Evil 9 to focus more intensely on its sci-fi aspects.

Why Resident Evil 9 Should Lean Hard Into Sci-Fi

Resident Evil 7 marked a return to the series’ roots, with its stripped-down narrative and claustrophobic design reminiscent of the franchise’s earliest entries, evoking a Texas Chainsaw Massacre atmosphere. Resident Evil Village then ventured into the realm of supernatural folk horror, featuring a mix of vampires, werewolves, and occult themes. The recent Resident Evil 4 Remake remained true to its grindhouse origins, steering clear of overt sci-fi influences. While Umbrella’s sci-fi experiments have always been a part of Resident Evil’s lore, they were largely kept in the background or omitted entirely in recent titles.

The last few Resident Evil games have predominantly explored "backwoods horror" settings, with contemporary technology and environments playing supporting roles. However, the groundwork has long been laid for Resident Evil to fully embrace its sci-fi roots, offering a fresh perspective that could reinvigorate the series. The franchise's deep-seated conspiratorial themes provide ample opportunity for Resident Evil 9 to bring its sci-fi elements to the forefront, creating an experience that not only honors the series’ legacy but also pushes it into exciting new territory.

Having successfully covered traditional horror themes, Resident Evil 9 might benefit from a bold shift in direction. By leaning heavily into sci-fi horror, the game could not only surprise fans but also cement its place at the forefront of the genre, ensuring the series’ continued success in an evolving landscape.