The upcoming release of Resident Evil 9 has sparked intense speculation, particularly around the intriguing possibility of an open-world setting. This concept, reinforced by a reputable leaker in March 2024, raises questions about how a famed survival horror franchise could successfully navigate the realm of open-world gameplay.
Traditionally, survival horror and open-world genres have remained distinct due to their contrasting design principles. While titles like The Forest and Subnautica have blended horror elements with open-world exploration, iconic horror series like Resident Evil have favored controlled environments to deliver tension and narrative depth. However, The Evil Within 2 stands out as a game that masterfully combines the two genres.
Lessons from The Evil Within 2 for Resident Evil 9
Despite being underrated in comparison to other horror franchises, The Evil Within series boasts a dedicated following, with its sequel, The Evil Within 2, making significant strides in gameplay and design. Notably, the second installment's open-world segments exemplify innovative game design that enhances the horror experience.
Balancing Horror and Freedom in Open Worlds
The integration of open-world elements in The Evil Within 2 demonstrates that horror and player freedom can coexist harmoniously. The town of Union, a sandbox level in the game, immerses players in a chilling atmosphere while offering non-linear exploration. This design choice not only amplifies the horror but also underscores the potential of open-world settings to intensify the player experience.
Furthermore, the open-world structure of The Evil Within 2 enriches gameplay mechanics such as resource management and decision-making. Players are compelled to make strategic choices in a dynamic and unpredictable environment, a departure from the linear progression commonly found in survival horror games.
For Resident Evil 9 to succeed in an open-world format, it must carefully align its environmental design, resource management, and puzzle mechanics with this expansive setting. While the game may diverge from The Evil Within 2 in certain aspects, it can draw inspiration from the latter's cohesive and innovative approach to open-world horror.