Unleashing Fear and Fun: The Making of Resident Evil 7 and Dead Rising


In the world of survival horror and zombie outbreaks, two iconic games have left a significant mark: Resident Evil 7 and Dead Rising. The minds behind these games, the directors, delve into the intricate process of crafting these experiences, shedding light on the origins and design philosophies that shaped these titles.

**Resident Evil 7: A Return to Fear**

Director Koshi Nakanishi reveals the pivotal moment when the team realized that Resident Evil needed to go back to its roots of instilling fear. As a franchise known for its terrifying experiences, the decision to prioritize fear was paramount. Nakanishi’s vision of immersing players in a first-person perspective to intensify the horror proved to be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. By re-evaluating every aspect of the game to ensure it induced fear, Resident Evil 7 emerged as a spine-chilling addition to the series.

**Dead Rising: Infusing Humor into the Apocalypse**

Director Colino took a different approach with Dead Rising, injecting humor into the zombie outbreak narrative. By setting the protagonist as a journalist navigating a world overrun by zombies, the game offered a unique blend of chaos and comedy. The decision to incorporate ridiculous elements and unconventional ways to interact with zombies created a distinct gameplay experience that resonated with players seeking a lighthearted take on the apocalypse.

**Appealing to a Diverse Audience**

While Resident Evil 7 aimed to terrify players and Dead Rising sought to entertain with humor, both games navigated the balance of appealing to a broad audience. Whether targeting core gamers or casual players, the directors trusted their creative visions to captivate a diverse player base. The success of these games lies in their ability to innovate within the zombie genre, offering unique experiences that cater to different preferences.

In conclusion, the directors’ insights into the creation of Resident Evil 7 and Dead Rising provide a deeper understanding of the thought processes and creative choices that shaped these iconic games. As the Resident Evil franchise continues to evolve, and Dead Rising finds its place as a classic in the zombie gaming genre, one thing remains clear: fear and fun are essential elements in creating memorable gaming experiences.