Zombie films are the most obvious direct influence on Resident Evil. Kamen Rider (and Toku stuff in general) is the secret sauce that makes the series truly special.
https://twitter.com/KamenSentai606/status/1381454496572792834
In the past I've seen folks write off the story of Resident Evil as nonsensical or even unimportant. But the story and characters really help set it apart from other horror games! People come back for them! 
The Resident Evil/Tokusatsu connection is significant. Resident Evil 2 was actually written by Noboru Sugimura (杉村 升), a cherished veteran writer of many classic Toku shows including Kamen Rider Black, Zyuranger (which Power Rangers was spun out from), Winspector & many more!
The Tokusatsu influence extends beyond the core plot (Umbrella Corp = Shocker) and monsters and is a strong influence on the earnest tone that carries the Resident Evil series. It's at its best when it can play stuff like this straight.
https://twitter.com/CanYouPetTheDog/status/1256228441717948420?s=20
Have a good day everyone!
• • •
Missing some Tweet in this thread? You can try to
force a refresh
