Resident Evil's Future May Include a Japanese Setting, According to Producer Masato Kumazawa
The recent success of Resident Evil Requiem, which has been dubbed the fastest-selling game in the series, has sparked excitement among fans for what comes next. With glowing reviews and strong sales, it’s no surprise that the development team is already brainstorming new ideas for the franchise. In a recent interview with Japanese news site Futaman (via Automaton), producer Masato Kumazawa hinted that a Resident Evil game set in Japan could be on the horizon.
"I think a Japanese setting is something every Japanese Resident Evil fan has thought about," Kumazawa said. "And I’ve also considered it myself. Since the development team is primarily based in Japan, I think every member has given it some thought. While Japan hasn’t appeared as a game setting so far, it might make an appearance at some point in the future."
Kumazawa emphasized the importance of keeping the series fresh and engaging for players. "If we keep releasing the same kind of game over and over, players will eventually get bored, so we’d like to keep taking on new challenges moving forward." This suggests that the team is open to exploring new settings and storylines, including the possibility of a game set in Japan.
Flexibility in Timeline and Setting
The development team isn’t bound by strict rules when it comes to the timeline or setting of Resident Evil games. Kumazawa explained that the timeline is adjusted based on what serves the story best. "We do adjust the timeline based on the assessment that present-day stories help players feel more immersed. The timeline also changes depending on the characters and story we want to portray in each title. Even in Requiem, we have scenes set eight years prior, as well as even earlier periods."
This flexibility has allowed the series to explore various time periods and locations, from the fictional Raccoon City to the Spanish village of Las Cruces. Now, with the possibility of a Japanese setting, the series could tap into new cultural and historical elements that have yet to be explored.
Balancing Innovation with Core Elements
Despite the openness to new ideas, Kumazawa assured fans that the core elements of the series will remain intact. "We won’t compromise the core elements of the series such as characters and the events that unfold, and we will continue to preserve what the series holds dear." This includes the iconic T-virus, the grotesque mutations it creates, and the chaos that ensues when these creatures are unleashed.
The Resident Evil series has always balanced horror, action, and narrative depth. A Japanese setting could provide a fresh backdrop for these elements while still maintaining the series' signature style. Whether it's a new city, a remote island, or a hidden laboratory, the potential for a Japanese-based game is vast.
The development team is clearly thinking creatively about the future of the series, and with the right approach, a Resident Evil game set in Japan could become one of the most anticipated entries in the franchise. Fans are undoubtedly watching closely to see if this idea moves from concept to reality.
