The Story Behind the Iconic Umbrella Corporation Logo in Resident Evil

The Umbrella Corporation logo is one of the most recognizable symbols in the Resident Evil franchise. The logo, featuring a red and white umbrella with a curved handle, has become synonymous with the evil corporation that unleashed the T-virus on the world. But what is the story behind this iconic logo? Let’s take a closer look.

1. The Umbrella Corporation was inspired by real-life companies

The Umbrella Corporation was created by Resident Evil’s creator, Shinji Mikami. Mikami drew inspiration from real-life companies such as the pharmaceutical giant, GlaxoSmithKline, and the chemical company, DuPont. He wanted to create a corporation that was so powerful and influential that it could operate with impunity.

2. The logo was designed by a Japanese graphic designer

The Umbrella Corporation logo was designed by a Japanese graphic designer named Yasuyuki Saga. Saga was tasked with creating a logo that was both simple and memorable. He decided to use an umbrella as the main symbol, as it was a common item that everyone could relate to. The red and white color scheme was chosen to give the logo a sense of danger and urgency.

3. The logo has hidden meanings

The Umbrella Corporation logo has several hidden meanings. The umbrella itself represents protection and safety, which is ironic considering the corporation’s true intentions. The red and white colors are reminiscent of the Japanese flag, which is a nod to the company’s Japanese origins. The curved handle of the umbrella is meant to resemble a letter “U,” which stands for Umbrella.

4. The logo has evolved over time

The Umbrella Corporation logo has undergone several changes over the years. In the original Resident Evil game, the logo was a simple red and white umbrella. In later games, such as Resident Evil 4 and 5, the logo was given a more stylized look, with sharper edges and a more modern feel.

5. The logo has become a symbol of evil

The Umbrella Corporation logo has become a symbol of evil in the Resident Evil franchise. It is often associated with the T-virus and the horrors that it unleashed on the world. The logo has been used in various forms of merchandise, from T-shirts to keychains, and has become a popular symbol among fans of the franchise.

In conclusion, the Umbrella Corporation logo is an iconic symbol in the Resident Evil franchise. It was designed to be simple and memorable, with hidden meanings that add to its ominous nature. While the logo has evolved over time, it has remained a constant reminder of the evil that lurks within the world of Resident Evil.

Introduction

The Umbrella Corporation is a fictional company in the Resident Evil franchise, and its logo has become an iconic symbol of the series. But what is the story behind the creation of this logo, and how has it evolved over time? Let’s take a closer look.

The Origins of the Umbrella Corporation Logo

The original Umbrella Corporation logo was designed by Capcom artist Isao Ohishi. According to Ohishi, the logo was inspired by the symbol for a chemical compound called phenol. The symbol consists of a hexagon with three circles inside, and Ohishi used this basic shape to create the Umbrella logo.

The Evolution of the Umbrella Corporation Logo

Over the years, the Umbrella Corporation logo has undergone several changes. In the early games, the logo was a simple black and white design, with the word “Umbrella” written in bold letters underneath the hexagon. Later games introduced a red and white color scheme, and the logo became more stylized and detailed.

The Symbolism of the Umbrella Corporation Logo

The Umbrella Corporation logo has several layers of symbolism. The hexagon represents stability and balance, while the three circles inside it represent the company’s three main areas of focus: pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and weaponry. The red and white color scheme is meant to evoke a sense of danger and warning, while the word “Umbrella” suggests protection and shelter.

The Legacy of the Umbrella Corporation Logo

Despite the fact that the Umbrella Corporation is a fictional entity, its logo has become a cultural icon. It has been featured on everything from t-shirts and posters to action figures and video games. The logo has even inspired real-life companies, such as the Japanese pharmaceutical company Sankyo, which adopted a similar hexagon-shaped logo in the 1990s.

Conclusion

The Umbrella Corporation logo is a fascinating example of how a fictional symbol can take on a life of its own. From its humble origins as a simple hexagon, the logo has evolved and become a powerful symbol of the Resident Evil franchise. Its legacy is a testament to the power of design and the enduring appeal of a good story.