Resident Evil Village Becomes Fastest in Series to Hit 10 Million Sales

In a significant milestone for the gaming industry, Capcom's "Resident Evil Village" has surpassed 10 million units sold globally, making it the fastest title in the storied Resident Evil franchise to achieve this feat. The game, which was released in May 2021, has captivated audiences with its blend of horror and action, and continues to attract new players three years after its debut.

According to a press release from Capcom, the sales figures include both physical copies and digital downloads across all platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch, and iOS devices. The game’s success is partly attributed to its Gold Edition, which includes additional content and support for Apple devices, and its release on new platforms such as the iPhone and iPad last October.

"Resident Evil Village" is the eighth main installment in the Resident Evil series, which began in 1996 and has since become one of the best-selling video game franchises in history. As of March 31, 2024, the series has sold over 157 million units worldwide. The franchise is known for its survival horror gameplay, where players must navigate terrifying environments and combat monstrous enemies using a variety of weapons and items.

The game's rapid sales trajectory is notable when compared to other entries in the series. "Resident Evil 7: Biohazard," the game's predecessor, and the remake of "Resident Evil 2" also reached the 10 million mark, but took longer to do so. The success of "Village" underscores the enduring popularity of the Resident Evil brand, which has been a mainstay in the gaming industry for nearly three decades.

"Resident Evil Village" has been praised for its atmospheric setting, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters, particularly the towering villain Lady Alcina Dimitrescu, who has become a cultural phenomenon in her own right. The game’s narrative follows protagonist Ethan Winters as he navigates a sinister village in Eastern Europe, facing off against a cabal of supernatural entities.

The game's critical acclaim and commercial success have been bolstered by its presence in popular culture, with numerous memes and fan content circulating online. It has also won several awards, including top honors at the Golden Joystick Awards 2021 and the Japan Game Awards 2022.

Capcom's strategy of expanding the game's availability to new platforms has played a crucial role in its sustained sales. The company announced that "Resident Evil 7: Biohazard" will be available on Apple devices starting July 2, and a port of the "Resident Evil 2" remake is also in development for iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

The success of "Resident Evil Village" is part of a broader trend in the gaming industry, where established franchises continue to thrive through remakes and re-releases. Capcom has hinted at future projects, including potential remakes of "Resident Evil Code Veronica" and "Resident Evil Zero," which could further capitalize on the franchise's nostalgic appeal.

In addition to Resident Evil, Capcom has seen success with other franchises such as "Street Fighter" and "Monster Hunter," contributing to strong financial performance and increased revenue projections. The company’s ability to leverage its popular intellectual properties across multiple platforms has solidified its position as a leading developer and publisher in the gaming industry.

As the Resident Evil series approaches its 30th anniversary, the continued success of "Resident Evil Village" demonstrates the franchise's enduring appeal and its ability to evolve with the times while maintaining its core elements of horror and survival.