The Story Behind the RE Umbrella Logo Design, Symbolism, and Brand Identity

Summary:

The iconic RE umbrella logo is one of the most recognizable symbols in the gaming industry. It represents the Resident Evil franchise, which is a popular survival horror game series developed by Capcom. The logo has undergone changes over the years, but its core design and symbolism remain intact.

1. Design:

The RE umbrella logo is composed of a red and white umbrella with the letters “RE” written in white against a red background. The design is simple but effective, and it has become synonymous with the Resident Evil brand. The logo was created by Japanese graphic designer, Yasuyuki Saga, who was also responsible for designing the game’s packaging.

2. Symbolism:

The umbrella logo has several symbolic meanings that are associated with the Resident Evil franchise. Firstly, the umbrella represents protection and safety, which is ironic given the game’s survival horror genre. Secondly, the red and white color scheme is reminiscent of medical themes, which ties into the game’s plot involving a biotech company. Lastly, the logo’s simplicity and boldness convey a sense of strength and confidence, which reflects the game’s themes of resilience and survival.

3. Brand Identity:

The RE umbrella logo has become an integral part of the Resident Evil brand identity. It is instantly recognizable and has been used in various forms of media, including video games, movies, and merchandise. The logo’s popularity has led to the creation of spin-off games and merchandise that feature the umbrella logo prominently.

In conclusion, the RE umbrella logo is a powerful symbol that represents the Resident Evil franchise’s core themes of survival, resilience, and protection. Its simple yet effective design and symbolic meanings have made it an iconic symbol that is instantly recognizable to fans of the game series.

Introduction

Designing a logo is no easy feat. It requires creativity, strategy, and a deep understanding of the brand’s identity. This is especially true for the RE Umbrella logo, which is one of the most recognizable logos in the gaming industry. In this article, we will delve into the story behind the RE Umbrella logo, exploring its design, symbolism, and brand identity.

The Design Process

The design of the RE Umbrella logo began in the early 1990s, when Capcom was developing the first Resident Evil game. The game’s director, Shinji Mikami, wanted a logo that would be simple, memorable, and easily recognizable. He tasked the game’s graphic designer, Kenichi Iwao, with creating a logo that would meet these criteria.

Iwao began by sketching several different designs, each incorporating the umbrella motif that would become the logo’s signature. He experimented with different colors, fonts, and layouts before settling on the final design. The logo features a red and white umbrella, with the letters “RE” in bold, black font.

Symbolism

The umbrella motif in the RE Umbrella logo is more than just a design element. It is a symbol that represents the game’s central antagonist, the Umbrella Corporation. In the Resident Evil universe, the Umbrella Corporation is a pharmaceutical company that creates a virus that turns people into zombies. The umbrella symbolizes the company’s power and control over the world, as well as its sinister motives.

The red and white color scheme of the logo also has symbolic significance. Red is often associated with danger, blood, and violence, while white represents purity and innocence. The combination of these two colors creates a sense of tension and unease, which is fitting for a horror game.

Brand Identity

The RE Umbrella logo has become an iconic symbol of the Resident Evil franchise. It is instantly recognizable to gamers around the world, and has become synonymous with the horror genre. The logo has been used on everything from game covers to merchandise, and has helped to establish the brand’s identity.

The logo’s simplicity and memorability are key factors in its success. It is easy to reproduce and can be used in a variety of contexts without losing its impact. The logo’s association with the Umbrella Corporation also adds depth to the brand’s identity, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue.

Conclusion

The RE Umbrella logo is a testament to the power of effective logo design. It is a symbol that represents the Resident Evil franchise’s identity, while also conveying a sense of danger, tension, and intrigue. The logo’s simplicity and memorability have helped to establish it as one of the most recognizable logos in the gaming industry.