The gaming industry is interesting to say the least. Plenty of entertainment industries have outspoken followers, but gaming is one of the few where can have a direct impact in the development of a project. Just look at Mass Effect 3 and the chaos that ensued following fan outrage over the game's ending. Fan pressure led to the creation of an entirely new DLC pack. Ask yourself, what other industry do consumers have that kind of power?
The Resident Evil franchise is one in particular in which the fanbase feels particularly close to, and one that has undergone tremendous changes since it originally debuted for PlayStation back in 1996 — much to the dismay of fans of the original. Nevertheless, the Resident Evil fanbase is a loyal one that continues to trust in Capcom despite several lackluster titles in the past few years.
Resident Evil 6 is no exception to the rule. Leading up to its release today, Resident Evil 6 has received mixed reviews from critics and fans alike. While some approve of the change in direction Resident Evil seems to be headed in, others feel it is an abomination to what the series once was. How does Capcom win? Can they win?
When asked by Sony if it's frustrating to keep fans happy, Resident Evil 6 executive producer Kobayashi-san likened the relationship to that of two parents caring for a child. A weird, but oddly fitting analogy.
"The way I always think of it is that if Resident Evil represents a child, then the fans and us as creators are the two parents. The resulting games are like the children that are born between both of us," Kobayashi-san explained. "And just like real parents, you’re not always going to agree on what is best for raising that child."
Even now, fans can't agree on what's best for Resident Evil. Should it continue down this action shooter route or return to its roots of survival-horror? Whatever it is fans are saying, Capcom is definitely paying attention...or so they say.
"Now, we do always have our ear to the ground and listen to what the fans are saying and we try to take that into account when we’re making the game," he added. "But it’s our job to create a new gaming experience and to offer them something that’s fresh and challenging. We want to make sure that what we do pleases them but the initial reaction might not always be positive."
"We do listen to the fans but we can’t be beholden to them at every turn or I don’t think we’ll ever make progress in terms of the series’ development," he concluded.
Resident Evil 6 just released today for Xbox 360, PS3, and PC. Although we found the game to be an "unremarkable 3rd person shooter", we can suggest giving it a try if you and a buddy are interested.
Via: Capcom likens Resident Evil devs and fans to parents of a child
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