The Resident Evil franchise, originating from the iconic 1996 video game created by Capcom, has grown into a sprawling multimedia phenomenon, encompassing games, films, novels, and animated series. Renowned for its gripping blend of survival horror, action, and intricate storytelling, Resident Evil delves into the terrifying consequences of biotechnology gone wrong, where corporations, viruses, and human ambition converge to unleash unspeakable horrors on the world.

The heart of the Resident Evil universe lies in its video games, which have evolved from their early survival horror roots to incorporate elements of action, exploration, and psychological terror. The series primarily focuses on the nefarious activities of the Umbrella Corporation, whose experiments with the T-virus and other bioweapons result in monstrous creatures and zombie outbreaks.

The story begins with Resident Evil (1996), set in the eerie Spencer Mansion, where players take control of S.T.A.R.S. operatives Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine, unraveling the mystery of the bioengineered horrors within. Subsequent titles, such as Resident Evil 2 (1998), Resident Evil 4 (2005), and Resident Evil Village (2021), expand the lore, introducing iconic characters like Leon S. Kennedy, Claire Redfield, and Ethan Winters, while showcasing innovative gameplay mechanics that have redefined the survival horror genre.

The Resident Evil live-action film series, directed largely by Paul W.S. Anderson, debuted in 2002, starring Milla Jovovich as Alice, an original character created for the movies. While loosely inspired by the games, the films focus on Alice’s battle against Umbrella and their bioweapons, weaving action-packed sequences with apocalyptic themes. Highlights include Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004) and Resident Evil: Extinction (2007), which blend fan-favorite game elements with high-octane action.

In 2021, Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City rebooted the cinematic franchise, aiming for a more faithful adaptation of the games. Set in Raccoon City, it retells the events of Resident Evil and Resident Evil 2, focusing on the origins of the outbreak and the iconic characters at its heart.

The animated adaptations, such as Resident Evil: Degeneration (2008), Resident Evil: Damnation (2012), and Resident Evil: Vendetta (2017), remain closer to the games’ canon, following beloved characters like Leon Kennedy and Claire Redfield. These projects provide fans with cinematic experiences that tie directly into the series’ lore, offering new insights into the world of Resident Evil.

The Netflix animated series Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness (2021) also delves into political conspiracies and bioweapon threats, showcasing the franchise’s ability to blend personal stakes with global crises.

At its core, Resident Evil explores the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition and corporate greed. From the claustrophobic terror of early entries to the grand-scale biohazard disasters of later installments, the franchise remains a cautionary tale about humanity’s hubris and its unintended consequences.

The series has left an indelible mark on the horror genre, popularizing tropes like limited resources, puzzle-solving, and atmospheric tension. Its characters, from the relentless Albert Wesker to the determined Jill Valentine, have become cultural icons, while its creatures, like the Tyrant and Nemesis, remain synonymous with survival horror.

With over two decades of storytelling, Resident Evil continues to evolve, captivating fans with new games like Resident Evil 4 Remake (2023) and expanding into new media. Its ability to adapt, reinvent, and push boundaries ensures its place as a cornerstone of modern horror and entertainment.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, Resident Evil offers a chilling, thrilling journey into the depths of human experimentation, survival, and the fight against unstoppable terror.