In 2002, Capcom released five exclusive titles for the Nintendo GameCube, including Resident Evil 4, a game that would later be considered its zenith. Initially, it seemed like just another B-movie premise, but the game drastically challenged traditional conventions in the series and survival horror genre as a whole.
Capcom’s decision to move the action away from Raccoon City’s grim atmosphere and into rural Spain led to a sense of dislocation that continued when the zombies were replaced by fast, axe-wielding country folk infected with parasites. The goal was “fear of groups,” which threw swarms of Ganados at players, ramping up pressure and inducing panic.
A key aspect of the game’s success was its over-the-shoulder viewpoint, which made enemies feel close and emphasized embodiment and proximity. This feature has since inspired a whole generation of games, including Gears of War and the 2018 reboot of God of War.
The new tempo and set-piece encounters have become legendary, with thrilling boss fights and tense exploration. Even inventory management is fondly recalled, adding to the game’s charm. An updated version was released in 2023, introducing a new generation to its Grand Guignol pleasures, but the original still holds up today.
Resident Evil 4 altered the approach of the entire industry, joining other influential games like Super Mario 64 and Doom. Its impact can be seen in modern survival horror titles, with some designers citing it as an inspiration. The game’s influence extends beyond its genre, making it a landmark title that continues to thrill fans and inspire new generations of developers.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/games/2025/jan/10/resident-evil-4-at-20-the-horror-game-that-revitalised-a-genre