Hideki Kamiya, a prominent figure in the gaming industry, has an impressive history with the Resident Evil franchise. He began his career as a designer for the original game and later took the helm as director for Resident Evil 2. His creative journey continued with iconic titles such as Devil May Cry, Viewtiful Joe, Okami, and Bayonetta. However, despite his significant contributions to horror gaming, Kamiya has revealed that he does not consider himself a fan of the genre. Recently, he expressed a desire for a “non-scary mode” in Resident Evil games, indicating a lack of interest in revisiting the franchise in its traditional form.
A Cozy Vision for Resident Evil
If Kamiya were to return to the Resident Evil universe, his approach would be refreshingly different. He envisions a game where a retired Leon Kennedy trades in his zombie-fighting days for a more tranquil life in the countryside. In his playful vision, Leon would engage in activities such as fishing, foraging for vegetables, baking bread, and even tending to a home garden. The game would feature charming scenarios like driving to the local store for supplies, hosting barbecues with friends, and helping neighbors with everyday tasks, all while selling homemade lemonade at local festivals.
This whimsical take on the Resident Evil narrative offers a unique perspective on the lives of action heroes, prompting the question: what do they do when not battling the undead? Kamiya’s concept could serve as an inviting entry point for newcomers who may shy away from the typical horror elements associated with the series.
In a follow-up tweet, Kamiya addressed Capcom directly, highlighting the demand for a less frightening iteration of Resident Evil. “There are a lot of voices out there saying they want something like a [Resident Evil] that’s not scary,” he noted. “So if you have some free time, please consider making it… I want to play it too.” His earnestness suggests that this idea is more than just a lighthearted jest; it reflects a genuine desire for innovation within the franchise.
While Kamiya may not be directly involved with Resident Evil at this time, his current project—a sequel to the beloved 2006 title Okami at his new studio, Clovers—demonstrates his ongoing commitment to creative storytelling in gaming. Perhaps his cozy vision for Resident Evil will inspire its current stewards at Capcom to explore new directions for the series.
As a side note, the juxtaposition of ‘horror’ and ‘cozy’ may seem unconventional, yet there are examples in the indie gaming scene that blend these themes effectively. One such title is Creature Kitchen, which has garnered attention for its charming gameplay. Currently available at a discount during the Steam Summer Sale, it offers a delightful experience that showcases how diverse gaming concepts can be.
