Episode 229:
Reinventing Fear
The Evolution of Resident Evil 4
Runtime: 60 minutes
History Topics (At-A Glance):
Resident Evil 4 (2005)
Originally Released on January 11, 2005
Episode Summary:
Today, we’re diving into the creation of Resident Evil 4, a title that redefined both its franchise and the survival horror genre upon its release on January 11, 2005. We begin by tracing its long development, from multiple abandoned concepts like the fog and Hookman versions to its eventual breakthrough with an over-the-shoulder camera and action-oriented gameplay. We’ll explore how these innovations, along with its intense pacing and new enemies like the Ganado, revolutionized third-person gaming. Finally, we’ll reflect on Resident Evil 4’s enduring legacy, from its influence on iconic franchises like The Last of Us and Dead Space to its continued status as one of the greatest games of all time. So, grab your green herbs and join us as we uncover the story behind this masterpiece on today’s trip down Memory Card Lane.