Resident Evil fans must feel like they've been inundated with exciting new information regarding Resident Evil Village over the past several months. Capcom's shared teasers, trailers, and more with increased frequency. But as much as Capcom is sharing, it's also keeping plenty of secrets regarding what players can expect in Resident Evil Village. Case in point a newly released piece of promo art featuring a nefarious-looking masked individual.
What's shown of the masked individual is particularly intriguing. Half of their mask is covered in shadow, while the other reveals a mask of surprising intricacy. It seems to be made of metal, judging by the small rivets throughout it, as well as some larger pieces sticking out. However, it could simply be a festival mask, or something worn to a masquerade. The darker alternatives are that it's some sort of torture device helmet, like what Garrador from Resident Evil 4 wears.
As for who the masked person might be, there are few clues. The shadowed face and pale white eye iris heavily imply that they're a villain. However, their role in Resident Evil Village isn't clear. It's possible that they the game's main villain, above even the vampire Lady Dimitrescu. It's also possible that they're just another type of frightening enemy Ethan will discover on his journey through the nightmare that is Resident Evil Village.
The piece of advertising in question stems from Japan, as it features a large Biohazard Village logo on it, rather than a Resident Evil logo, as well as the game's Japanese release date. Prominently featured in the image are some already familiar characters. Chris Redfield, one of Resident Evil's most notable characters, is holding a baby. Behind him is Ethan Winters, the protagonist of Resident Evil 7 and now Resident Evil 8, too. The child, based on early information about Resident Evil 8, is Ethan's daughter Rosemary.
Regardless of whether the masked villain is new to Resident Evil or a familiar face hiding the truth of their identity, the promo art does its job well. It makes Resident Evil fans intrigued by what will be found in the game. There's only one way to find out who is behind the mask, after all. You'll have to play the game.
Perhaps if Resident Evil fans grow very excited to find out who the masked character, Capcom will share more information about them. That's what happened with Lady Dimitrescu, after all, though that situation is rather unique in the scheme of things. With Resident Evil Village's launch just a month away, Capcom will probably let this tease last.
Resident Evil Village releases May 7 on PC, PS4, PS5, Stadia, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
Source: Game Informer