Capcom producer says Resident Evil remakes are providing financial support to develop new games and IP
Capcom is leveraging remakes of classic Resident Evil titles as a strategic financial tool to fund the development of new games and original intellectual property, according to producer Masachika Kawata. Speaking with Game Informer, Kawata explained that the remake strategy serves a dual purpose: generating revenue while simultaneously allowing the development team to continually challenge themselves and refine their craft.
The remake approach addresses a significant production challenge facing the franchise. Kawata noted that creating entirely new entries in the Resident Evil series on an annual basis would be an extremely demanding undertaking. By interspersing remakes of beloved classic titles alongside new releases, Capcom can maintain a consistent stream of Resident Evil content while managing development resources more effectively.
This strategy allows Capcom to pursue multiple objectives simultaneously. The financial returns from remaking established titles with proven fan bases provide the capital necessary to invest in experimental new projects and original intellectual property that might carry higher development risk. Meanwhile, revisiting and reimagining older games offers the development team valuable opportunities to hone their technical skills, experiment with new technology, and refine their creative processes.
Capcom’s approach reflects a broader industry trend of leveraging existing franchises to fund innovation. Rather than viewing remakes purely as a nostalgic cash grab, the company frames them as a legitimate development practice that benefits both the studio’s financial health and its creative development. This strategy enables Capcom to balance commercial stability with creative ambition, ensuring consistent revenue while pursuing the new experiences that keep the studio competitive in an evolving gaming landscape.