Resident Evil Franchise Sales Surpass 120 Million Units Worldwide
The Resident Evil franchise, a beloved horror video game series developed by Capcom, has achieved remarkable sales milestones, surpassing 120 million units sold worldwide as of March 2023. This impressive figure is a testament to the franchise’s enduring popularity and its ability to captivate gamers across generations.
Origins and Evolution
The Resident Evil franchise originated in 1996 with the release of the first game for the PlayStation. The game introduced players to the iconic characters Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine, who fought against hordes of flesh-eating zombies and other grotesque creatures. The game’s success spawned numerous sequels, prequels, and spin-offs, each expanding the franchise’s lore and introducing new characters and storylines.
Critical Acclaim and Commercial Success
The Resident Evil franchise has received critical acclaim for its immersive gameplay, atmospheric environments, and compelling narratives. The series has consistently pushed the boundaries of horror gaming, delivering experiences that are both terrifying and exhilarating. This critical success has translated into commercial success, with each new installment breaking sales records.
Mainline Games
The mainline Resident Evil games have been the driving force behind the franchise’s sales. The first game sold over 5 million copies worldwide, while its sequel, Resident Evil 2, became the best-selling PlayStation game of all time, with over 10 million copies sold. Subsequent mainline games, such as Resident Evil 4, Resident Evil 5, and Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, have continued to perform exceptionally well, contributing significantly to the franchise’s overall sales.
Spin-Offs and Remakes
In addition to the mainline games, the Resident Evil franchise has also spawned numerous spin-offs and remakes. These games have explored different genres and perspectives within the Resident Evil universe, providing fans with a diverse range of experiences. Some notable spin-offs include Resident Evil: Outbreak, Resident Evil: Revelations, and Resident Evil: Umbrella Corps. Remakes of classic games, such as Resident Evil 2 Remake and Resident Evil 3 Remake, have also been highly successful, introducing the franchise to a new generation of gamers.
Crossover Games and Collaborations
The Resident Evil franchise has also collaborated with other popular video game series, resulting in crossover games such as Resident Evil x Dead by Daylight and Resident Evil: Resistance. These collaborations have further expanded the franchise’s reach and introduced it to new audiences.
Merchandise and Licensing
Beyond video games, the Resident Evil franchise has also generated significant revenue through merchandise and licensing. Fans can purchase a wide range of products, including action figures, clothing, accessories, and home goods. The franchise has also been adapted into live-action films, animated films, and novels, further expanding its reach and appeal.
Conclusion
The Resident Evil franchise has established itself as one of the most successful and influential horror video game series of all time. With over 120 million units sold worldwide, the franchise has captivated gamers for decades and continues to grow stronger with each new installment. The combination of critical acclaim, commercial success, and a diverse range of experiences has cemented the Resident Evil franchise as a cultural phenomenon that will continue to entertain and horrify for years to come.
