The Fascinating Story Behind Resident Evil’s Iconic Umbrella Rotating Logo

Resident Evil is one of the most iconic video game franchises of all time. From the very beginning, the series has been known for its terrifying atmosphere, heart-pumping action, and unforgettable characters. But one of the most recognizable elements of the series is its iconic rotating umbrella logo.

The umbrella logo first appeared in the original Resident Evil game, released in 1996. It quickly became synonymous with the series, appearing on everything from game covers to T-shirts to keychains. But where did the idea for the logo come from, and what does it represent?

According to the game’s director, Shinji Mikami, the idea for the umbrella logo came from a real-life experience. Mikami was walking in the rain one day when he noticed an umbrella with a red and white pattern. He thought the pattern looked interesting and decided to incorporate it into the game’s logo.

But the umbrella logo isn’t just a random design element. It actually has a deeper meaning that ties into the game’s story. In the Resident Evil universe, the Umbrella Corporation is a powerful pharmaceutical company that secretly develops bioweapons. The umbrella logo represents the company’s cover-up of its sinister activities, as well as its control over the city where the game takes place.

Over the years, the umbrella logo has become an iconic symbol of the Resident Evil franchise. It has been modified and updated for different games in the series, but the basic design remains the same. Fans of the series often wear clothing or display merchandise featuring the logo as a way to show their love for the game.

In conclusion, the umbrella logo is more than just a design element in the Resident Evil series. It represents the game’s story and themes, as well as its enduring popularity with fans. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual player, the umbrella logo is sure to be a recognizable and beloved part of the Resident Evil experience.

Resident Evil, the popular survival horror video game franchise, has been around for over two decades. One of the most recognizable elements of the series is the iconic Umbrella Corporation logo. This rotating logo has become synonymous with the Resident Evil brand and has a fascinating story behind its creation and evolution.

The Birth of the Umbrella Corporation Logo

The Umbrella Corporation logo was first introduced in the original Resident Evil game, released in 1996. It was designed by the game’s director, Shinji Mikami, and artist Isao Ohishi. The logo features a red and white umbrella with the words “Umbrella Corporation” written in black underneath.

The inspiration for the logo came from a real-life company in Japan called the Shiseido Company. Mikami and Ohishi liked the idea of a simple logo that could be easily recognizable and memorable. They also wanted to create a sense of corporate identity for the fictional company in the game.

The Evolution of the Logo

As the Resident Evil franchise grew in popularity, so did the Umbrella Corporation logo. It became a staple of the series and appeared on everything from merchandise to promotional materials. Over time, the logo underwent several changes and variations.

One of the most significant changes occurred in Resident Evil 4, released in 2005. The logo was given a 3D update, and the umbrella was made to look more realistic. This change was made to reflect the game’s shift towards a more action-oriented gameplay style.

In Resident Evil 7, released in 2017, the logo underwent another significant change. The red and white color scheme was replaced with a black and white one, and the umbrella was given a more sinister look. This change was made to reflect the game’s darker, more horror-focused gameplay.

The Symbolism of the Logo

The Umbrella Corporation logo has a deeper meaning than just a simple corporate identity. In the Resident Evil universe, the Umbrella Corporation is a pharmaceutical company that secretly conducts illegal genetic experiments. The logo represents the company’s desire to control and manipulate the world’s population through its products and research.

The red and white color scheme of the original logo represents the company’s facade of being a trustworthy and reliable corporation. The umbrella symbolizes the company’s desire to protect and shelter its customers. However, as the franchise evolved, the logo’s symbolism became darker and more sinister, reflecting the true nature of the Umbrella Corporation.

Conclusion

The Umbrella Corporation logo has become an iconic symbol in the Resident Evil franchise. Its evolution over the years reflects the changes in the franchise’s gameplay and tone. However, the logo’s deeper meaning remains the same, representing the dark and sinister nature of the Umbrella Corporation.