Capcom is continuing its prolific remake strategy for the Resident Evil franchise, with plans to eventually revisit Resident Evil 5 and Resident Evil 6. This strategy, according to executive producer Jun Takeuchi, is designed to run parallel to the development of new numbered titles in the series.
Takeuchi explained that the Resident Evil series operates on two tracks: the numbered entries that advance the ongoing narrative and the remakes that allow players to experience past installments. He noted that the remake series will, at some point, catch up to the era of the current numbered games, and Capcom is already contemplating how to proceed when that occurs.
"We have been gradually preparing for that since around 'Resident Evil Village,'" Takeuchi stated. "The appearance of names such as Umbrella and Spencer, as well as the return of Raccoon City in 'Requiem,' are also in preparation for a 'crossover'." He identified Resident Evil 7 as a pivotal point for the series, marking the beginning of this setup where elements initially intended as fan service were embraced and further developed based on player reception.
Capcom began its remake initiative in 2019 with the Resident Evil 2 remake, followed by updated versions of Resident Evil 3 and Resident Evil 4. The next scheduled remake is Resident Evil: Code Veronica. Should Capcom maintain its current pace of releasing a remake every two years, it would take approximately 12 years to remake the remaining early titles.
While the prospect of revisiting Resident Evil 5 and 6 is confirmed, the executive producer indicated that the company is considering future directions for the series, including potential remakes of titles like Resident Evil 7, which would be around 21 years old by then. Takeuchi mentioned that the series' narrative is evolving, with events in Resident Evil Village and Resident Evil Village's DLC, Resident Evil Re:Verse, laying groundwork for future plot developments and potential crossovers.
The company's strategy suggests a long-term vision for the franchise, balancing nostalgia with the continuation of its story. This approach aims to satisfy long-time fans while potentially attracting new players to the series' older entries.