Resident Evil’s Most Underrated Side Characters Who Deserve Their Own Game!

Summary

HUNK’s untold stories would make him a compelling protagonist.
Ashley’s survival story could provide a fresh and intense gameplay experience.
Josh Stone’s independent storyline would diversify Resident Evil 5’s narrative.

As a dedicated fan, I must admit that the Resident Evil franchise has introduced some truly memorable main characters. However, it’s not just these heroes that have left an indelible mark; many secondary characters have captivated us with their depth and potential to shine as leading figures. These characters often receive substantial development across their games or display such impressive skills against the hordes of mutants and zombies they encounter, making them strong contenders for a protagonist role.

Since Capcom typically reserves one-time character appearances for special cases, fans enjoy speculating about potential storylines if they were in control. Let’s delve into some intriguing Resident Evil side characters who could shine as main protagonists given the chance.

8. HUNK

The Grim Reaper Has Plenty Of Fascinating Stories To Tell

First Appearance: Resident Evil 2 (1998)

In the realm of Resident Evil, HUNK carries an air of mystery, often hinted at throughout the series but seldom seen in person. However, what’s not in question is that HUNK is among the most seasoned and threatening human characters within Resident Evil. His nickname, which he earned by surviving multiple suicide missions, underscores his resilience.

It would bring immense pleasure to long-time enthusiasts if HUNK were to take on the lead character in a game. Given his popularity, a solo title could certainly be justified, and even two decades since his debut, there remains a strong desire to delve deeper into his story.

7. Ashley Graham

Without Leon, Ashley Would Have Had To Embark On A Terrifying Solo Escape

First Appearance: Resident Evil 4 (2005)

Following the kidnap of Ashley, the president’s daughter, by a dangerous cult called The Illuminados, it falls on special agent Leon S. Kennedy to save her. Interestingly, in both Resident Evil 4 and its remake, there is one level where players can control Ashley as she maneuvers through Salazar’s Castle. One can’t help but ponder what the game might have been like if Ashley had been the central character instead of Leon.

Absolutely, it’s clear that Ashley isn’t equipped to handle the monsters that Leon defeated in the game. However, this could make the game more thrilling with a slower pace, which can be beneficial. By making Ashley the main character, players would gain a richer understanding of her emotional growth from a timid, naive prisoner into a tough survivor.

6. Josh Stone

Josh Is Charismatic Enough To Carry A Lead Role

First Appearance: Resident Evil 5 (2009)

Josh Stone enters the narrative of Resident Evil 5 close to the midpoint, playing a significant role in supporting Chris and Sheva throughout their harrowing ordeal in Kijuju. As Sheva’s previous instructor, Josh demonstrates combat proficiency, managing to hold his ground even in intense battles. However, despite his extensive training, he is occasionally caught off guard by the Majini and B.O.Ws he encounters, given that he could not have foreseen them during his training sessions.

Josh occasionally steps into and out of the narrative to lend assistance when needed. Although he shares a small expansion DLC with Jill, he could potentially serve as a compelling main protagonist. If Josh were to star in his own solo adventure, where he’d be responsible for rescuing people amidst the Uroboros-ridden Kijuju, it would result in a starkly distinct storyline from that of the original Resident Evil 5.

5. Zoe Baker

The Baker Who Managed To Retain Her Sanity, Despite It All

First Appearance: Resident Evil 7 (2017)

As the Baker family gradually succumbs to corruption and mental manipulation after adopting Evelyn, Zoe fights against this influence as long as she can. By the time Ethan arrives at their estate, Zoe appears to have been living in a trailer on the premises for several months, managing to evade both her family and Evelyn.

During this time, playing the character Zoe would offer an interesting perspective on various encounters with the Baker family, as well as insights into how she maintained her composure after her ordeals. If Ethan hadn’t been selected for the lead role, Zoe could have been a suitable alternative. The Bakers might be history for now, but they could have given Zoe an opportunity to shine.

4. Mikhail Victor

The Legendary Soldier Who Got Caught Up In The Raccoon City Incident

First Appearance: Resident Evil 3 (1999)

Initially, Jill and Mikhail might not have a strong friendship when they first cross paths, but it’s soon clear that Mikhail isn’t as unsavory as Jill initially perceived. Despite working for Umbrella, Mikhail made every effort to save civilians during the outbreak, which ultimately led to his injuries and prolonged stay on the train – a significant part of Resident Evil 3. Given that he’s one of the few characters in the series who puts others before himself, Mikhail could make a compelling protagonist.

Apart from being a highly skilled soldier, Mikhail shares similar abilities with characters such as Chris and Leon. Regrettably, he didn’t manage to escape Raccoon City because the Nemesis pursued him relentlessly. Among the supporting characters in that game, Mikhail seems like an excellent candidate for a protagonist role if ever chosen.

3. Mia Winters

It Would Be Great To See Mia Pick Up Where Her Husband Left Off

First Appearance: Resident Evil 7 (2017)

In Resident Evil 7, Ethan embarks on a harrowing journey following an accidental visit to the Baker estate. Later in Village, he finds himself compelled to confront Mother Miranda and the Four Lords. Despite meeting a tragic end within the game, Mia, his wife, and their daughter Rose manage to survive.

Apart from a short segment in “Resident Evil 7”, Mia has not been made playable, despite her significant role in the current storyline. She may not be a seasoned fighter, but she’s had enough exposure to defend herself when necessary. Making her a central character could lead to an intriguing side story or main series installment.

2. Elena Lupu

Fans Could Witness The Fall Of The Village In Real Time

First Appearance: Resident Evil Village (2021)

In Resident Evil Village, spectators might recall Elena as the individual Ethan assists early on. Regrettably, she doesn’t stay long; both her and the other villagers are slain following her father’s transformation into a werewolf, causing havoc. Given that she appears to have resided in the village for quite some time, Elena could make an engaging protagonist, as it would allow players to observe the village’s decline unfold firsthand.

In the story, it adds a heavy emotional impact because Elena’s father ultimately contracts the infection, creating friction within her team of survivors. Despite having limited on-screen appearances, Elena emerges as a captivating and intriguing character.

1. Robert Kendo

Kendo’s Journey Through Raccoon City Is Only Partially Shown In The Games

First Appearance: Resident Evil 2 (1998)

In the zombie-infested city of Raccoon City, Leon and Jill struggle to find other survivors for conversation. However, they encounter a gun shop owner named Kendo who assists them. Although details about this tough survivor are scarce, it’s evident that he once had a daughter who was bitten and eventually transformed into a zombie. This tragic event deeply affected Kendo’s emotional well-being.

Experiencing the Raccoon City outbreak from Kendo’s point of view offers a new perspective for players revisiting this famous location, without needing to play as Leon, Claire, or Jill whose tales have been retold numerous times. Having Kendo as the main character also sets up a more emotional and possibly darker narrative due to his personal struggles.

2025-05-25 22:19