In the first Resident Evil games, character design was limited by the technology of the time. Because of this, protagonist models were distinguished through smaller details such as shoulder pads and their signature colors to contrast with the low-resolution models of zombies. Moving forward, the next two generations would drastically improve upon character appearance and create high definition versions of their first models. As a result, the designs of Leon, Ada, Jill, Claire, and Chris were upgraded to fit the survival horror tone of the series, creating the iconic wardrobes that fans of the franchise have come to know and love.
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With the newest entries however, the RE Engine is used instead of previous framework. As a result, games since Resident Evil 7 have seen another upgrade to the character models, evolving their designs into a more modern interpretation of what different people would wear in the wake of a zombie outbreak. Most notably, this includes the addition of actual pants to Jill and Claire’s models instead of a skirt and short shorts respectively. Additionally, all the main characters have received more realistic facial expressions and movements for cutscenes and gameplay. In short, the protagonists look more and more like someone straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster.
At the same time, Capcom has also managed to improve other elements of their character design. Since the original generation, the vibrant colors used for character models were gradually darkened or washed out over the years. This choice was made because zombies, monsters, and other horrors could finally be differentiated from the player character through improved graphics. However, with the newest engine in Resident Evil 3, it seems that Jill and the other main characters have regained some of their trademark colors that made them stand out years ago.
As a whole, Resident Evil 3’s remake is shaping up to be the best looking entry to date. NPCs from survivors, to zombies, and even the big bad Nemesis have been upgraded to today’s standards. Furthermore, the environments have been beautifully crafted and torn down, making players truly feel the madness that has descended upon Raccoon City just from trailers.
In the end, some fans might still be hesitant to embrace Jill’s new model, but the evolved design is sure to be remembered in-game when released next Spring. And if that’s not enough, keep in mind a younger Chris Redfield has yet to make his appearance in the current generation.
Resident Evil 3 launches on April 3, 2020 for PC, PS4, and Xbox One.
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