The Growth of Chris Redfield

From punching boulders to broad shoulders, someone at Capcom loves this guy. Chris is one of the only characters in RE to have a proper, coherent arc. Let's talk about it.
As always, all footage is borrowed from other channels. Links below:
RE8 Chris Cutscenes:
• Resident Evil 8 (Villa...
RE7 Not A Hero Intro:
• The First 12 Minutes o...
RE7 Not A Hero Finale:
• Resident Evil 7 Not a ...
RE7 End of Zoe Finale:
• Resident Evil 7 - End ...
Code Veronica Chris Vs Wesker:
• Resident Evil Code: Ve...
Resident Evil Remastered Chris Cutscenes:
• Resident Evil HD REMAS...
RE6 “Ada” Kills Chris's Team:
• Resident Evil 6 all cu...
RE6 Piers Saves Chris:
• Resident Evil 6 - Pier...
RE6 Chris Vs Leon:
• Resident Evil 6 - Chri...
RE5 Excella Boss Fight:
• Resident Evil 5 Remast...
RE5 Uroboros Boss Fight:
• Resident Evil 5 Remast...
RE5 Wesker Finale:
• Resident Evil 5 Remast...
RE Revelations Chris and Jessica:
• Chris and Jill Reunite...
Capcom Failing Jill Valentine, Colorized:
• RESIDENT EVIL: DEATH I...

[@eren2519]

Chris Redfield is the batman of resident evil, and that’s why he’s my favorite. He’s smart, was in the Air Force, got kicked out for wanting things done his way, literally went out of his way to investigate and help humanity by himself for years. Started BSAA. Got YOKED after being defeated by weaker multiple times and makes saving people his priority. Dude is a renegade and even criticizes the new BSAA, helped Blue Umbrella by himself. Cant tell me he’s not batman

[@MMinz26]

At some point in time Roger Craig Smith (the voice of Chris in RE5 alongside Sonic the Hedgehog for a time) did voice a younger Batman in the game Batman: Arkham Origins, a prequel. So yeah technically speaking Chris is Batman.

[@CorvinusLeal]

This is more like Leon...Heck he even get his own catwoman in Ada.Also lol Chris and Smart really Dont go together...RE8 is the proof of that

[@MMinz26]

@@CorvinusLeal Oh the Batman that shared the same actor as Chris wasn’t smart by any means. He was a violent, angrier Batman that hit first and asked questions later. A Pretty reckless guy that took on 8+ assassins all in one night.

[@romansionis2470]

​@@MMinz26 Arkham Origins Batman was pretty smart tho. While he was angry and reckless but not sure he should be considered "not smart by any means".

[@MMinz26]

@@romansionis2470 What I meant by not smart is that even if he’s the World’s Greatest Detective he’s still made a couple lil fumbles alongside the journey during the Arkham games (remember the ol’ fake Joker?) but he still rose above it and improved on his work. This Batman’s interrogation skills (while still scary to the average Gotham thug) are still in the works too. When he first interrogates Penguin’s arms dealer earlier in Origins’ story he can’t quite hold up Ricky with one hand like he can in City, he also cuts him off from air too soon (aspects he’d later improve on). Sorry about all this writing and exposition dumping, I like to write.

[@semimescudi4024]

Chris has always been one of my favorites and I love his new angry and just another day in the office persona

[@DANIELREXXX]

Too bad the direction RE8 went for gameplay-wise is awful, in my opinion. I hope RE4R's success causes RE9 or whatever next to be better in that aspect.

[@chrisinstasis7986]

I think it feels fairly realistic. Or about as realistic as the RE universe can be. People do get jaded and bitter fighting the good fight under trying circumstances over time. And often end up doing the right thing because they still believe in it, but with a really bad attitude.

[@keip4568]

He actually got smaller after ...RE5...

[@thegreatpiginthesky3904]

@@DANIELREXXX re8 is awesome what are you talking about

[@milewesler9592]

@@thegreatpiginthesky3904 they don't like that we don't have fucking tank controls on people anymore. 😔

[@ashe9696]

The fact that Chris in RE 1 is just a baby version of his older self is so cute to me I love that you can tell who he is even if he changes a bit.

[@MariusBoss11458]

It's similar to Leon. In a way, with his character development from RE2 to RE4.

[@Odinsday]

@@MariusBoss11458 For the original games, the Leon from RE2 and RE4 felt like entirely different people. They were good characters in each game, but they never felt like the same person, and it was one of the things I didn't like about RE4 coming from RE2. I get it was supposed to be campy and that the story was mostly an afterthought, but I do like an attempt at consistency. For the remakes, the Leon from those RE2 and RE4 versions feel like the same person, with RE4make Leon being a more somber, angry person who never wavered in his code of honor like in RE2make.

[@ashe9696]

@@MariusBoss11458 yup

[@MariusBoss11458]

@@Odinsday Agreed.

[@SemekiIzuio]

Yes thank goodness the men have stayed consistent. Poor Jill.

[@sealake7935]

I feel like Chris is the main character of the whole franchise

[@dantevic]

Well yea, Jill was suppose to be also but the rarely used her after re3.

[@cryptic-lo1bf]

I feel more like its leon he's more approachable

[@brockle8786]

​@@cryptic-lo1bfyes but the fact that he s have been only seen in RE 2/4 and 5 makes Chris the right protagonist

[@fajar4741]

So true.

[@FrankByDaylight]

​@@cryptic-lo1bf You would be objectively wrong. RE2 and RE4 Leon might as well be different people tbh.

[@urbiznesnunuv6938]

Chris has been incredibly consistent probably because the series seems to see him as the true protagonist of sorts. He was the first voice we ever hear narrate in the series and the first introduced in re1 1996’s intro Also I hear a lot of criticism levied at re6 Chris but tbh Chris’s darkness was hinted at in resident evil 5 when he was willing to let the world die to stay with Jill for another few moments, he cares for his friends that much. But what happens if you take everything from a man and he has a target with nothing left to lose?

[@carltasticdrew9633]

That’s why that scene in RE5, Jill tell to Chris that they must stop ouroboros or millions will die, but Chris said “Well yeah but-“.

[@urbiznesnunuv6938]

@@carltasticdrew9633 yeah, that’s what I meant

[@manuelk1853]

I mean makes sense because his archenemy Wesker is the main antagonist of the series.

[@tymelthompson4182]

​@@manuelk1853 Wesker hasn't been an antagonist in over a decade. The franchise is in a completely different chapter at this point.

[@manuelk1853]

@@tymelthompson4182 Yeah but I meant that he is the overall main antagonist of the series. Sure, he is dead now and doesn't play a role anymore, but before that he was the most recurring antagonist and the biggest threat.

[@GhostonGuitar]

I was lucky enough to meet Chris's RE 5 VA Roger Craig Smith, dude is incredibly wholesome.

[@azoth7756]

Oh man, you were very much lucky. I am so jealous.

[@runbaaPl4y]

Speaking of consistency, I find it interesting how Leon's most popular incarnation, his OG RE4 self, seems to be the odd one out among his character portrayals. I'd argue RE4 Remake Leon is more consistent to how he is portrayed in RE6 and beyond. Tired, wary, with a biting humor that feels more like a coping mechanism than the cool and casual wit OG RE4 Leon exuded. As iconic as that version of Leon is, when compared alongside all his portrayals, OG RE4 Leon feels like another person. He feels more like Dante than Leon.

[@ThrillingDuck]

Totally agree. I actually touched on this exact point in my previous video!

[@MariusBoss11458]

Well. Dante WAS Leon. In an early stage of RE4's development, they thought that the game strayed too far from the Horror stuff and turned that into Devil May Cry.

[@pumpkibee]

that is exactly the case. from what i know, leon in the japanese release of 4 was definitely more in line with his less humourous incarnation in 6, but for some reason the western translated release added a lot more humour to the script and the sarcastic one liners that made leon so iconic to us. it might be because that leon’s game became devil may cry?? so they saw how popular dante was, and maybe wanted to implement that success into leon, too. (but ofc this is just a guess lol)

[@zeroskaterz92]

RE4 R also consistent with CG movies. I remember how odd it was to see Leon was so cold and serious in Degeneration after played OG RE4. Almost like two different characters.

[@AICW]

@@zeroskaterz92 Unfortunately, Infinite Darkness which takes place between RE4 and Degeneration also writes Leon as a lighthearted jokester who can't get a date. Bringing the inconsistency right back.

[@sleeplessindefatigable6385]

in order, we have: Vanilla Chris Hurt Chris Swole Chris The refreshing taste of Chris Lite Punished Chris.

[@pumpkibee]

THE REFRESHING TASTE OF CHRIS LITE

[@tabergineman7241]

Punished Chris?

[@ToddVu]

​@@tabergineman7241~you're face~ ~to face~ ~with the man who sold the wooooorld~

[@michaelbecket4901]

@@tabergineman7241RE8 chris

[@Hilversumborn]

Chris Redfield is the Captain America of RE. Despite his own moments of weakness, he’s the one who continues the fight against bioterrorism, and the one even characters like Jill and Leon would rally behind.

[@littlepip8343]

An interesting thing to note is that in the Japanese version of Village, instead of “boulder-punching asshole”, Heisenberg refers to Chris as a gorilla! Which was the affectionate term for Chris from around 5 onwards by the Japanese fanbase (in no small part due to his enhanced physique)! I love how in both languages it’s still a loving nod to the fandom!!

[@koffiya9184]

I'm really happy to see I'm not the only one who sees that Chris is actually really consistent from game to game, but that his physical evolution makes sense. He feels like a character who is ageing and getting buffer/more experienced. You explained perfectly how Chris is actually super consistent in character too! Two examples I like to give is how in RE8 they showed Chris smoking which is a cool nod to RE1, and also his tendency to disagree with the hierarchy (back when he was in the air force, and now with the BSAA). You are addressing some really interesting subjects and I think this has some great potential for your channel. I hope we get to see more RE videos soon!

[@ThrillingDuck]

Thanks a lot! If this video manages to do even like a third as well as the Jill one, I have one about Rose written up :)

[@koffiya9184]

@@ThrillingDuck Very exciting!

[@MMDAQ]

Curious fan here, how is smoking a reference to RE1. Did I miss something?

[@piccoloblack69]

@@MMDAQ 1996 Chris was a smoker. He picked up smoking again when he lost his memory in RE6.

[@AICW]

@@MMDAQ In the original uncensored PS1 game's intro video, Chris's character intro shows him lighting up a cigarette. This was also supposed to be the reason why he had a lighter as his default item. Claire later starts with this same lighter in Code Veronica, with the implication being that he gave up smoking after RE1 and gave the lighter away to her.

[@vinzo0913]

I always thought of Chris as the main protagonist of the resident evil lore. He has the most interactions with BBEGs, most appearances, even features as the focus for the cover of the first game; re2 and 3 were expanding what happened in Raccoon City, re4 was about Leon's future, then back to the main action. Think like these are stepping stones explaining why these people ended up as they do, but Chris saved Jill, Chris was the one that had to lose people he swore to protect more times than he would ever admit and that flaw, that's what drives him, and that growth is why he is the de-facto protag of this series

[@MrLachapell]

BBEG?

[@okupant880]

@@MrLachapell Big Bad Evil Guy - BBEG

[@vinzo0913]

@@MrLachapell colloquialism commonly used from Dungeons & Dragons; Big Bad Evil Guy ^^

[@vinzo0913]

@@okupant880 I saw your reply after I replied, sorry lmao

[@belinskiparadox7687]

I know it's naive for me to want it, but damn I really want them to get Roger Craig Smith back as Chris for RE5 Remake. He really is (at least in my eyes) the definitive Chris Redfield. None of the voice actors that played him after have managed to surpass him.

[@ThrillingDuck]

Don't know how popular an opinion that is but personally I hard agree!

[@Thoray]

I completely agree. He will always be Chris to me.

[@heybimo]

It's likely impossible as Capcom going Non-Union actors/actresses since then, but I'd praise Jeff Schine's performance as Chris to be very close to Roger Craig Smith (he voiced Carlos REmake3). It's a bit sad that some blunder caused Wesker's RE5 VA to be replaced.

[@ajg8722]

Fax

[@Stevofaves]

Fair enough, though personally I really hope they don't remake RE5. I think 4 is a good point to stop with the remakes, it's a fantastic game but I'd really like for them to just tell new stories for a while.

[@devinnavarro9718]

RE6 Chris was the perfect turn around for this character , it was at a point where he was in between his two different personalities his super do good by everyone and for everyone personality from 5-1 and his new angry jaded and everything being more personal personality in 9 . You gotta understand that out of all RE characters Chris had probably lost the most . And has experienced the worst . From losing multiple conflicts to wesker to losing Jill to losing his squad and Finn to losing his memory and then his major turn around when he lost Piers . And I think him being angry after years of fighting the good fight just for nothing to change just makes sense .

[@devinnavarro9718]

Re8 not 9 sorry 💀

[@JeedyJay]

I mentioned this in my own comment, but the version of him we see in the flashback (Pre-Crisis Chris, let's say) is from a time when things were going _great_ for him. His arch-nemesis was dead, his old partner (who was thought lost) was alive and well, and his anti-monster organization was putting in work. Everything was coming up Redfield!

[@StateOfTheMind11225]

@@JeedyJay i think the ptsd just hit Chris that hard after RE5, its like how Raiden could not able to cope with the realities of his world in Metal Gear Solid 2 and barely recovered since.

[@teriosshadow17]

I actually like the idea of Chris's turnaround in RE6, but as for the execution? Not so much. Personally, i didn't like how RE5 gave him happy ending after all the despair and loss he had to fight through ONLY to lose that hope in the next time, but this time with amnesia and UNYIELDING RAGE. While its understandable to degree, but he was being massive Jerk in his campaign, but thankfully he got his act together by the end of his campaign even though his change was bit abrupt. Then RE7 and Vendetta just repeat that cycle of "Chris loses people and is mad about it" that it became tired trope at that point. RE8 at least progressed this by having Chris being disillusioned and paranoid after losing so many people that he does questionable actions which is consistent growth. Unfortunately, for many, the writing makes Chris look like asshole and an idiot for not telling Ethan anything.

[@josephjoestar995]

👍👍

[@aleisinwndrlen7113]

My favourite version of Chris is definitely the RE5 version. I mean, it's arguably the turning point of his life, and you could definitely see how the experiences he had in 5 also shaped him up to become what he is now. A renegade stricken with grief over the loss of his comrades. If anyone of you haven't played it, then I would very highly recommend checking out the RE5 DLC "Lost in Nightmares". It's one of the best DLCs in the series.

[@teriosshadow17]

Mine too, still to this day he is my favourite version of Chris. He is more world weary, flawed, yet has big heart and determination to do the right thing. I love the scene where Chris is conflicted about leaving Jill behind, it shows Chris puts his loved ones before everything, its very human. I also love how Chris has rejuvenated his hope for the future even when he had lost hope at beginning and now he got it back. As for RE6, well i like the fallen hero aspect of his story(even though its been overused trope at this point), but the execution fumbles around a bit. I understand to degree since Chris was suffering from amnesia and PTSD, which makes his anger and need for revenge somewhat justified, but he was a massive prick for majority of his campaign and his change in character felt bit rushed. He goes from "I won't stop until that bitch is dead" to "You were right. I will not waver again" in flick of a switch after meeting Leon. Sure, it could be argued that Chris respects Leon after helping his sister, but that turn was still rather quick. Also, it doesn't help that Leon doesn't give much to convince Chris other than "I lost other people too" or "Yeah, i protect her"

[@thiccpalpatine]

The way I see it, Chris’s development comes in 3 phases. Re 1/Code Veronica Chris: Chris is still in his formative years during this time and has a bit of a rebellious edge to him that ended up in him getting kicked out of the Air Force. Despite this, he still is principled when it comes to protecting others, especially those he cares about. This no doubt stems from him and Claire losing both of their parents and Chris probably assuming an unofficial role as guardian of his younger sister. This combined with his training that led him to become a S.T.A.R.S operative was enough to help him overcome the odds he faced, yet he hadn’t fully matured or realized his full potential yet, as evidenced by Wesker bodying him in Code Veronica. Re 5/Revelations/6 Chris: Chris is basically in his prime during this time period. He’s gotten a lot stronger to the point of being a borderline super soldier. This time period is also where Chris’s greatest feats are shown, punching the boulder is one thing, but this was also where Chris arguably fought the highest caliber of BOW’s or monsters. During this time he helped defeat Jack Norman and Haos, the latter of whom was considered a doomsday level threat. And of course he helped destroy Uroburos and Albert Wesker, who’s basically the strongest character in the entire RE universe. However, one thing to also note is that this is also the time where Chris faces what he feels to be his greatest failure, which is failing to protect those he cares for. In this time he goes on believing he lost Jill until he’s able to make up for that when he finds out she’s still alive and frees her from Wesker’s mind control. Then he actually loses his whole BSAA squad including Piers by the end. The loss of Piers also clearly left a permanent mark on Chris since Piers basically helped Chris overcome much of his trauma from seeing his team die, and Chris felt he could even pass the torch to Piers before he ended up dying as well. Re 7/8 Chris: Chris is in his grizzled veteran years during this time. Despite him maintaining much of his strength, he’s a lot more weary from his years of combat. His consistent desire to protect those he cares for has even led to him becoming a bit paranoid, which can be seen in how he mishandled dealing with Miranda and keeping Ethan in the dark out of the hope of keeping him, Mia, and Rose safe. The combined issues of dealing with the Connections as well as seeing the BSAA devolve into something similar to Umbrella also doesn’t help in reaffirming any idea Chris may have that he’s making any kind of positive difference with his efforts. A subtle detail is that Chris even picks up smoking as a habit during this time, something he hadn’t been portrayed doing since the first game. He’s hardened a lot in his older years but the tragedy he’s faced has made him regress a bit. Even to the point where his pathologies get in the way of him fulfilling his desire to protect people. Like how despite all his efforts to keep Ethan out of the way, his actions played a part in what led to Ethan dying, even if Rose and Mia ended up getting saved. Chris probably has the best character arc in the entire series. It’ll be interesting to see how it concludes whether it’ll happen in RE 9 or some other title since canonically he has to be pushing 60 years old by this point.

[@SergalCheeseHead]

Chris is about 48 years old in RE8, he's still got some time left

[@Saturn369-i1b]

He's going to end up doing some old snake shit

[@BeegJooller]

@@Saturn369-i1bsomehow wesker comes back for the mgs4 styled final boss “WEEEESKEEEEEEER” “CHRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIISS”

[@pho3n1xr1sing]

​@John Redford not gonna lie I'd be down for that have em fight on some metal gear styled BOW just for the hell of it

[@TheGhostel]

It is also worth noting that in Shadow of the Rose DLC when you read notes about Rose Winters' time in school... It is shown that Chris, the bitter old grizzled veteran, still've kept his promise to Ethan to take care of the girl... And in not "monitor BoW" way... But as a good friend and godfather would even PERSONALLY going to Rose's school once he hears about her having problems. Like he didn't made her "another job" - despite him saying he is no longer "a hero" - he still made sure to be a good figure in girl's life and not some kind of handler.

[@SaberRexZealot]

Chris Redfield is the Resident of Good

[@ZA-VII]

Chris Redfield is true HERO is resident evil. The complexity that he has as a character is incredible.

[@brokefangmagepunk3685]

I had the same thoughts about Chris and his physique, not even counting the wesker beat down. This guy has come across zombies(dead flesh but still can use 100% of muscles, no brain block) mutated plants, animals and humans that can destroy a body in one hit. If anything I'm surprised that every single surviving character that appears in a later game isn't absolutely jacked

[@johnharker7194]

If I survived the mansion incident, I'd do a TON of steroids

[@johnsorrow1987]

Chris Redfield is definitely one of the most consistent characters in the RE universe. With most of the RE characters like Leon, Claire, Jill too considering what they have been through, they're moods and mental health would definitely change according to how they handle constant battle, trauma and the pain of loss. None more so than being betrayed by a former comrade, someone you may even consider... family. Of all the crap Chris went through I don't think anything hurt more than finding out his Captain was working for the enemy. And the resurrection of Wesker as a Super-soldier...even more traumatic. The icing on the treachery cake would be turning Jill against him too. That's what made his appearance in 8 so badass. Thanks for another cool video. I will be watching.👍

[@arkfounder7056]

Chris Redfield is the Guts of Resident Evil, with Albert Wesker being Griffith and Jill being Casca.

[@johnnysalery7383]

Honestly, that’s a pretty good analogy of those three characters. Chris trying to do the right thing despite everything that goes wrong, Wesker being the manipulative asshole whose actions end up shaping his destiny. And finally there’s Jill who’s just trying to stay alive but gets put in danger and traumatized.

[@MrDumdumkilla]

😂😂😂 tf you sound slow. How tf is is similar 😂😂😂😂😂.

[@ceoofbased6850]

"WESKEEEEEEER!!!!"

[@shodim4495]

Couldn’t say it better 👏🏻

[@Rauser142]

Chris got BLACKED and cucked?

[@P-Nello]

Chris is my favorite. I think they play around with him the most, considering his popularity, and I can't escape the feeling he is used as a litmus testing for new visual and narrative ideas

[@JeedyJay]

Pointman of STARS Alpha Team, pointman of the Resident Evil series.

[@P-Nello]

@@JeedyJay yessir

[@danieltobin4498]

Chris is a good man in a cruel and evil world. But he never gives up, and I like to think that his determination to never stop fighting inspires others

[@fenrirsrage4609]

I find it funny people talked smack about Chris bulking up by RE5 but ignore all the crazy Zombies, Mutants and other BOW nonsense he has faces in his lifetime. He'd be crazy not to hit the gym with the things he faces.

[@MrThemovie321]

I absolutely love your analysis videos and I knew this would finally do Chris' arc justice

[@ThrillingDuck]

Thanks a lot! Appreciate it :)

[@coast2coast-295]

THANK YOU! I've been telling people for YEARS that Chris got swol because he knew his rival was a super human monster. Chris's body probably only survived Wesker's hits in 5 because of how sturdy he was. And when people say 'why did he shrink after 5?' I always said 'Cause Wesker is dead. He doesn't need to keep up that brutal routine.' lol

[@ThrillingDuck]

Lol fr fr

[@josephjoestar995]

In a world full of advanced biology and chemistry - it’s not a foreign concept to believe he was given advanced PEDs given his line of work as an experienced BOW expert and BSAA agent who fought against countless lickers, reapers, and as you say Wesker himself. I don’t get why people don’t think of this first..

[@pulsare.m.6719]

Beautifully done thank you! I love Chris. He is my all time favorite hero!

[@Dixie-Normus-True]

He grew from Chris Redfield to Christ rock punching Redfield to Redfield ...

[@QSoundProductions]

Great video man! I agree how Chris has been pretty dang consistent, and his character growth is very well done and I’m happy to see a video like this go over and shine a light and on his character, looking forward to see more!

[@The4thSnake]

Some interesting points here. I think Chris' design in Death Island is down to it building on Vendetta's story and assets, but also because I believe it's set pre-7.

[@revenge3265]

Someone who finally understands Chris' character instead of pretending he has none or is inconsistent.

[@IronLordEXO]

Chris went from hard MF to harder MF to hardest MF to just plain tired of Umbrella's shit 💀

[@gogetathestrongestfusion]

Honestly I m scared for Chris future RE8 Chris is so broken inside that he never go back to the RE5 Chris which is my favourite and at least death island will bring back some of that charm of RE5 Chris

[@nillynush4899]

Chris is a sweetheart in REmake, he takes good care of Rebecca.

[@jayenlow1191]

Chris definitely has the easiest to understand character in Resi. Man of justice and action that cares for his comrades and struggles to keep them all alive. And I liked your point about him carrying the increasing weight of enemies he's taken down. I remember listening to one theory for 8 that Chris was possibly gonna have a villain arc because of his color design of all black like Wesker. Course didn't happen, but that's cool connection to have of him carrying all those past scars by starting to look a bit like his greatest enemy. Also, don't know if you'll end up doing a Leon video, but I compare Leon and Chris via what gets to them the most. Both of them care about people and hate when they can't save them, but I look at it like Chris being in this fight against BOWs with comrades and him loosing them along the way is his burden. While Leon, since joining the government generally works alone but still has a bleeding heart trying to save everyone around him.

[@TheChosenShogun]

He went from "I will have her home by 10 sir" to "She Calls me Daddy now"

[@axelpellegrini2062]

one thing i like about re8 chris is that he feels so vulnerable. like if any attack actually connects with him he would receive serious damage

[@lisacastro3899]

8:55 is one of the truest things I've heard regarding the legacy characters in RE. I believe Leon mentions being "stuck in a loop" in the Vendetta movie, when Rebecca talks about the outbreak at her school. Evidently, Leon has turned to alcohol and Chris seems more set on taking out Glenn Arias, but it's all the same: they're stuck in a loop. You mentioned more evil people popping up after Wesker's death and, in my opinion, they weren't as diabolical or more of a threat than he was, but it's just sad that, even with him gone, it doesn't end. The fact that each one of these characters, especially Chris, has lost a good chunk of themselves over the years to fight bioterrorism, just confirms the void that's been created and will most likely never be filled. Great video! I'd love to see one on Wesker or other characters. I enjoy these analysis videos haha Also, the Darkwing Duck profile pic is an automatic sub lmao ❤😂

[@wh3nderson95]

I specifically remember in Marvel versus Capcom. That Chris Redfield is standing next to Captain America in Mike Haggar's ending slides. And I have to admit, damn... Capcom do be presenting Chris on the level of on of the greatest comic book heroes in American fiction. Now that is respect how the developers want to imagine Chris. I'm a huge fan of him and gush about RE lore to my friends. They are awesome and humor me.

[@panth3r072]

I remember how Chris was memed on being an expert in getting people killed around him, especially in instances where he would have died if someone didn't intervene on his behalf. From RE1 Remake all the way to 7's DLC has Chris constantly had to witness teammates and people he's around. RE8 he tries to keep Ethan away and lo and behold, Ethan is gone too. It be interesting to see Chris reflect on everything in the way they're going to address Jill's time recovering from Wesker's mind control.

[@WastedPot]

‘Begins to carry the weight of their enemies actions in their own demeanour’ that’s me with 343

[@ThrillingDuck]

Lol

[@MidlifeCrisisJoe]

RE8 Chris completes the arc he was always on, that of Nick Fury. People only know of Nick Fury as the director of SHIELD in Marvel comics, but he was *originally* in a World War 2 comic book where Fury and his squad (The Howling Commandos) fought the Germans in war stories. Going from Soldier, to Secret Agent to Secret Agency Leader saw a consistent rise in cynicism for the character, until he became iconic. Much like Chris Redfield.

[@NerdyGrounds]

I've only played RE5,6 ORC and a bit of remake 3, and after seeing wesker beat his ass, ya I get why he got jacked up to be punching boulders

[@mark4670]

Chris no doubt the best character in RE. every comeback he got better and even wiser despite not the most loved (but he's still one of the most popular ones)

[@wallybonejengles5595]

Man did not go from Code Veronica to boxing a boulder organically. Man's a bioweapon.

[@chrisnichols9014]

He's just built differently. lmfao

[@daemonlynn7616]

This guy sums up my problems perfectly. I hate the constant remodels but Chris stays perfect

[@johnnysalery7383]

Chris’ newer/angrier demeanor suits him in my opinion. Throughout all the games he’s been in he constantly tries to do things the right way only for it to backfire somehow. Someone always dies are gets killed and it has a lasting effect on him. Re 8 Chris is essentially him taking the “Wesker” approach. Eliminating all targets and destroying the source of its origin. While Ethan searches for his daughter, Chris and his team are behind the scenes destroying Lycans and investigating the area for Miranda. Granted Chris is a much more “negotiable” person than Wesker is since he’s not an egomaniac. But that’s not to say there aren’t some similarities between him and the Wesker from RE 1.

[@Demigod_3scrub]

Yeah Chris being Jacked in RE 5 to me was always because of Wesker kicking his ass in CVX..

[@chrisnichols9014]

If I had to fight the strongest villain the franchise has seen, I'd get jacked too. Wesker was insane.

[@jakeistired]

i ain’t even watched this yet and i know it’s gonna slap (based off the jill video). keep going we need ur vids king

[@hyperlegendultra5983]

Yeah i definitely agree it’s a lot easier to have a character grow while still feeling like the same person when you have multiple appearances instead of once in a blue moon like Jill. Even with 8 while I do got issues with his decisions in that game Jeff schine did a great job bringing in that charisma he had 5 and 6 to 8 with his performance. My worry for 5 remake which isn’t needed but it pretty much confirmed is this might be the the time where we get a variant of the character but I’m hoping since 8 is very recent in peoples minds that they won’t try and miss with his character and keep like it was in 5 OG. They most likely won’t bring back Roger, so hopefully Jeff or whoever they get keeps him the same.

[@deathkorpsgrenadier2419]

One thing I think you didn't mention is the consequences of Wesker's death. Chris was at the mansion. He saw the source of the outbreak, and he knows Wesker is largely responsible. Until the end of RE5, he had a culprit, but then he died. His all-out crusade to kill Wesker was over, and right after the short moment of solace after killing Wesker, the horror continued. He continued witnessing the deaths of the soldiers he cares for so much, and much more, but now, without his nemesis in mind. If anything, to me, Chris is possibly one of the most tragic characters in RE5, and I can't wait for the game where he finally "gets the girl", and possibly, if we're lucky, a very heartwarming hug. (And him punching an average sized rock perhaps).

[@ThrillingDuck]

Chris could never get the girl unfortunately. It’s just impossible.

[@Simon_Leviev_piotrwasattacked]

@@ThrillingDuck The RE1 remake ending in the helicopter and the congratulation photo in the remake tells me that he's already found his girl.

[@ThrillingDuck]

@@Simon_Leviev_piotrwasattacked Jill is just his best good platonic friend.

[@Simon_Leviev_piotrwasattacked]

@@ThrillingDuck I don't think so. there's something in the air

[@ThrillingDuck]

@@Simon_Leviev_piotrwasattacked Lol I've been referencing a meme this whole time, but I don't think you're familiar with it, so it isn't landing. Of course I ship Chris with Jill! Who doesn't??

[@ivri6143]

Love your RE videos! I hope u make more

[@ThrillingDuck]

Thanks a lot! Hoping to get a short one about Rose out as soon as I can :)

[@jiggycalzone8585]

Chris is a legend of a VG Protagonist. Standing shoulder to shoulder, easily above many of his peers. How many other video game characters have lasted this long and are still as enduring despite significant changes to their character, actions driving the plot of the series forward within and outside of the games? Underlined by him not being *that* big of a character outside of the franchise [as opposed to say, Leon] I wonder if Chris will be killed in 9 as a way to close the main series out. Capcom has flirted with the idea before

[@小鹿-p8f]

you really did a good job explaining why he is by far my fav RE character. He might initially come off as a generic hero, but RE6 and Village especially have added so much depth to his personality. his storyline in RE6 is just so incredibly heartbreaking, after everything and then seeing the result of it, it's really good writing.

[@TrueHDR]

yoo keep going with these resi videos! loving them

[@RepublicTrooper125]

My best friend and I talked about that Code Veronica fight convincing Chris to get shredded back when RE5 came out.

[@yuankun99]

You forgot to mention that Chris is the only Resident Evil character who met all previous main characters. Chris met Jill, Rebecca, Barry in RE1, Chris met Leon in RE6, Chris met Ethan in RE7 and RE8. Chris and Claire had their own game Resident Evil Code Veronica. Jill only came to be seem with Leon in the movie Resident Evil Death Island.

[@ThrillingDuck]

That's not really part of his "growth," but you're right and it is some fun trivia.

[@yuankun99]

yeah, that's fun trivia. thanks for the reply@@ThrillingDuck

[@cjgaming7837]

Resident 5 in general is heavily underrated it's my favorite re game and i love chris in it

[@ZA-VII]

I wish it didn't really needed to be coop.

[@krakenmckraken9128]

Never had a problem with Chris being swole. It was the boulder punch specifically that was just ridiculous looking and took away from the already ridiculous wesker fight imo. Childhood me always viewed Leon and Chris as two responses to their backgrounds. Both trained so they could be prepared with capcom deciding leon would be the agile one and Chris would be the tank. Not unrealistic logic as I personally wouldn’t wanna be caught with my pants down in an apocalypse fighting a superhuman but that’s just me. What really bothers me about that logic is how they’ve kept them separate this whole time. They seem like the perfect duo and are fan favorites engineered to print money yet their campaigns were separated in 6 (not the worst flaw of that game however) and they’ve been paired twice now in the movies in what is arguably the best scene in the films.

[@ThrillingDuck]

Fair take! For what it’s worth, I’m pretty sure Capcom just separates them all the time because they like pairing them up with girls lol, but it IS weird that they share the screen so infrequently considering what major players they are in the series.

[@Bloopergrandson1]

I mean the boulder punch thing is hilariously ridiculous but i try to explain it as Chris and his partner Sheva is in a life and death situation inside a volcano (somehow not burning to death but that doesnt bother me enough so i go with it) with some psychopathic maniac with mutant powers bent on trying to kill the both of them and destroy the world so Chris gets adrenaline + willpower manage to move the boulder away to save Sheva. after RE5 Chris is not as big or strong as he was but still freaking strong considering he punches molded monsters in RE7 like they're basketballs, plus he defeated the biggest threat in the RE series i dont think Chris needs to be train as hard as he did prior to 5 and he is getting old (hes in his late 40s by RE8). I think its for plot why Capcom keeps Chris and Leon separated because both of them combined they would easily waste any bad guys that come up to threaten their lives, Chris is more like the brawler military type that goes in heavy in fights whereas Leon is the sneakier iq finesse flashy type agent with speed but not as strong as Chris.

[@krakenmckraken9128]

@@Bloopergrandson1 agree with everything but the last paragraph. I think you could easily have the plot feature something like the plaga infection in 4 where the enemy isn’t necessarily just about the “og Leon/chris” duo taking them out. But accomplishing the goal, cure, escort, etc.. Not saying there should be a magic maguffin but every game has featured something like the antidote to wesker in 5 or Roses scattered pieces in 8. This becomes a lot more plausible if the scenario sees them removed from receiving support. They’re badass but they’re sent in with gear to begin with. All I’m saying is there are all kinds of ways to write this to make sense (a lot more care and effort than my comment bothers to muster) Also, Chris’s punches in 7/8 are absolutely still boulder punches haha. The aesthetic of the game has toned down but Chris is still canonically jacked and boulder punching.

[@josephmercier7291]

That “Thanks fur watchang” at the end came out of left field for me as a first timer here and I enjoyed it. Good analysis of the character, agree that they’ve kept him consistent in the most important ways. 👍

[@ThrillingDuck]

Lol thanks! That’s actually not a regular thing I do here. Honestly not sure what possessed me to stick a MatPat at the end haha.

[@josephmercier7291]

@@ThrillingDuck Well I don’t know what a MatPat is so you get a point for originality from me! Nice and fun, sont we all like surprises. I enjoyed listening to your video while I did work yesterday, thank you.

[@ThrillingDuck]

@@josephmercier7291 Thanks a lot! Glad you enjoyed :)

[@yusukeelric]

I think it's RE5 where he's shown his main trait that evolves over the years. even though Chris accepts people is going to die on his command, he can't stand it. In revelations he was devastated when he tought Jill was dead. Worse yet in RE6 since he saw her fall ... Still didn't give up. The only way he would accept Jill's death would be seeing her body. In 6 his entire refusal to go back into action was because he couldn't take losing more people. Piers sacrifice gave him confidence to never again give up on his cause. In RE 7 he's back into action and even working with a team. Unfortunely, then again , his Team couldn't survive the operative on Lucas. Chris again ended up alone. But instead of sinking in sorrow he went all out against Lucas. Making sure he lamented what he did before he gave him a final shot. In RE8 he's more a front liner, Leaving his wolves to handle intel and airstrikes, he seemed to not let them go with him. Instead going alone to the most dangerous parts. He's so distraught about the idea of letting someone die on him he kidnapped Ethan and refused to even let him understand what was going on (still i hate that, if he cares so much why wasn't he in the van with Ethan, but that's my only problem with RE village Chris, i think his stupid choice of not telling Ethan anything was completely in characterm it was a stupid choice Chris would make) Overall Chris is a soldier who knows the risks but would rather fight an army alone than letting another less experience soldier die on him, reminds me of Guts from Berserk.

[@DragonFox84]

i see the village version as a more realistic version in the world. if you think about it, its been about 20 years since the events of the mansion, so he will look a bit older. then add in the mental stress and trauma hes been through, and you will get a more weathered looking guy.

[@nativereload]

Chris is the ultimate bow and boulder slayer in Resident evil

[@furorceltica185]

My headcanon is Chris took intensive training in the desert like Adonis Creed in Creed 2

[@ThrillingDuck]

Lol

[@minchacaalex2125]

Give it up man, we all know this is now a newly renown Resident Evil channel, and your passion for the franchise took over the whole shenanigans. 😂

[@Majinhero]

i just hope his dream of continueing the redfield bloodline will come true.

[@ThrillingDuck]

Claire's not getting any younger, Leon!

[@joeldelgado1376]

Me and my friends strongly believe that the reason we see Chris' all swole in RE5 is because of Wesker's super human abilities. Like, I am glad you thought that too. That PTSD and preparation all have to played up to RE5. And that PTSD could follow him towards the later games. Taking BOW so serious, he refused to make any mistakes.

[@YamiIsUsagi]

Chris redfied is my favourite character 🔥

[@donhoolieo4896]

I always like Chris and how he was designed up to RE7. I was like “is this a trick from Umbrella” 😂 RE8 he went back to normal.

[@fattiger6957]

When I first played RE7, I didn't think it actually was Chris. Either someone using his name or just some easter egg (since he just calls himself "Redfield" not "Chris Redfield") The design was just too different from any version of him. He is clearly a blonde in RE7 when he was always shown with dark brown hair.

[@MavisXe]

Honestly I never even thought Chris’ design in RE7 was bad or stark to begin with. I thought it was a good adaptation of his older look and was really well done but RE8 Chris is definitely my favourite design by far.

[@TheShoojin]

chris will always be my fave

[@EliteKnight97]

When RE7 released I didn’t get it purely on the redesigned appearance of Chris, I called him Craig Breadfield and regarded him as imposter. I was so relieved to see capcom return to thicc Chris in RE8

[@ThrillingDuck]

I don’t rly agree with this take but the wording made me laugh, well done

[@emmaw7853]

im sure the backlash with RE7 chris was that no one could recognize him. even i was shocked when he introduced himself in re7 like who tf are you??? but otherwise yeah, i do think his character is pretty consistent.

[@maxomega98]

This video was amazing and tbh I’m not sure how beloved Chris would be if he wasn’t the face of survival horror back in the 90s. He’s a legacy character in pop culture and a very long series that has evolved in so many ways. Whether he dies or lives Chris is the face of resident evil closely followed by Leon. I’ll never forget the first interaction of re1 with Chris and I experiencing our first zombie together, truly magical stuff.

[@JeedyJay]

I've got some points to contribute: At the beginning, Chris had a lot of his personality tied into supplementary reading and concept work (his Air Force service, being a maverick who didn't get along with the police chief, his "the Lads" relationship with Richard and Forest, that kind of thing) but has bunch more added with the introduction of his sister. Claire being partially raised by her brother after they were orphaned, and having learned combat and survival skills from him so she can fend for herself, are traits that tell us things about both of them. As for the "worked out for the inevitable rematch with Wesker" bit to explain his new physique, the series writers themselves have brought that up in some interviews, so it's basically the official explanation. He's also pretty dehydrated during RE5, as you can see from his constant "wiping away sweat" idle animations. This might be an holdover from an early idea for RE5 involving staving off heat stroke as a survival mechanic. One thing I like about the flashback bit in RE6 is that Chris is has a much sunnier and more benevolent demeanor. That was after the end of RE5 (Wesker was dead, Jill was alive, the BSAA was thriving and doing good work) so he was at what was likely the highest point in his life. Finally, I think it needs to be said that RE7 was using a new engine and doing capture using new method, so the weirdness of his RE7 face is likely to be at least partially because of technical reasons (Mia's face is also different in RE8, as a point of comparison).

[@EsoteriK1993]

I used to be enamored with Leon as a character when I was younger. But the more i learn about myself the older I get. I can relate to Chris wholeheartedly and he has become my favorite character in the franchise.

[@FootOfOrion]

Chris built a bodybuilder physique. Still looks good in his age. He’s what every man should strive to be.

[@ToshisGarden]

Chris directly confirms he got jacked after Code: Veronica specifically to combat Wesker in one of his victory quotes in Marvel Vs. Capcom 3! ^^

[@ThrillingDuck]

Awesome, I didn’t even know that!

[@MegaSoniczone]

One aspect of his character I think is really compelling is how hard he takes the deaths of his allies. He takes caring for friends and allies to an extreme, and either seeks revenge or beats himself up over their deaths. It's an interesting character flaw that shows he cares so much for the people around him, even to a fault that it begins to wear him down as the years go on and the more people he loses. By the time of Village, he's grown bitter and tries to keep the people he cares about at a distance for their safety while he handles the situation surrounding Mother Miranda, sadly though, despite Chris' efforts, his attitude just further motivated Ethan to get involved.

[@vincentshadetree]

Just found your channel, I like your video essay on Chris 😎 subscribing

[@ThrillingDuck]

Thanks! Video essays are basically my thing so more to come :)

[@Yuuki_Youtube]

I think a lot of my issue is that Chris never looks the same twice. Even between RE7 and RE8, he goes from Ethan's lost twin to a potato man. RECVX is probably my favourite model of him, he's just a goofy guy.

[@heybimo]

Village has some shortcomings that could have easily been rectified but Chris' consistent attitude/personality regardless of RE6 batshit-insane plot he's been through never made me question if it's the same Chris (shout out to Jeff Schine whose portrayal is very faithful to Roger Craig Smith with a bit distinct edge to him). Bar facial and voice in 7, Chris feels consistent in the arcs he's thrown to.

[@ChillGuySammy]

Considering d.c douglas was going to reprise his role as wesker in re4 remake before he broke his nda i hope roger craig smith comes back to voice chris😢

[@ThrillingDuck]

I'd love that, but my guess is they're gonna keep the guy from RE8. People liked him as Chris and Carlos, and the Remake actors seem more actively involved with fans on social media than the original ones.

[@MariusBoss11458]

​@@ThrillingDuckI know in the CGI Movie Death Island. Kevin Dorman is gonna voice Chris. Maybe they'll use him?

[@pulsare.m.6719]

@@MariusBoss11458 I hope soo. He sounds great as young Chris. Also has some resembles to Roger Craig Smith.

[@quicoboy]

...villains aren't born...they are made...and this one's turning out magnificently...it's time to take your place and fulfill your destiny...Lord Redfield...

[@alpolo007]

5:44 THANK YOU I’ve been saying this for years.

[@ultnash]

They should make a classic tank control resident evil spin off series focusing on Chris Redfield always being the payable character, calling back to the series roots, and consistently honoring one of the series most reoccuring characters. I'm gonna be Chris Redfield when Halloween 2024 comes along, genuinely cool bit about RE lore and history there.

[@animarok9032]

Not to mention that he technically is now a father ish figure due to him raising rose,it is know cuz in shadows of rose it is mention that Chris visited her school often

[@Cieeel]

chris's greatest growth was finally not losing his entire squad in re8

[@tylertheguy3160]

Chris's face from RE1 to RE6 is actually the same. I think a lot of people miss this because everything else about him changes so drastically. Also another fun fact is that his face in RE7 and in Village are actually the same model, it was just heavily altered for Village.

[@richardofredemption]

Great video 🤙🤙🤙

[@neiloconnor7776]

“Surprisingly consistent” Re7 Chris allow me to introduce myself

[@ThrillingDuck]

Lol but even him!

[@reason4346]

2:42 RE5 is prime Chris. Not even boulder can hold his punch.

[@criticalchronic6059]

Seeing as wesker "who was the main villain until after 5" had the biggest issue with Chris along with him having the most appearances is what made me see him as the main character, he kidnapped his partner and made a point to show him what he did to her the next time they met up. Having a main villain see you as their enemy in a franchise of many protagonists really says something

[@istemann]

Love your content, super underrated channel!

[@danielwolf6477]

Actually it makes sense for him to get bigger and bigger, he fights all over the world, trains to stay fit for those battles ect... Look just at special forces, most of them are jacked af...

[@LeonWick526]

The Shadows of Rose DLC implies Chris is still fighting bioterror in his 60s. I hope that's not cannon and that he retires in his 50s.

[@pulsare.m.6719]

I hope so too. Give man a life for crying out loud.

[@FalcoMoment]

Chris still being present doesn't mean he's still directly fighting By Shadows of Rose, Chris could be acting in the background as support for others. Think Bain from PayDay/PayDay 2. He's part of the gang, basically the leader, but he doesn't directly do the jobs or fight. He communicates info and instructions over radio and sends aid/supplies/escape.

[@fajar4741]

He's strong not only in his physique, but mental and emotion he has. He's more suitable to be the main protagonist in whole RE Universe, even tho he's not the no.1

[@HyperSonicXtreme]

That’s his cousin Craig Redfield at the end of Resident Evil 7. 😂

[@christyshultz6443]

LOL I had questions he had like a reddish blonde looking hair and I'm all like are they trying to make him look like claire?😅

[@michaelh4227]

Meanwhile Leon's character arc: Idealistic Cop -> Super Action Hero who makes cheesy lines -> Depressed Emo

[@patrickfrost4087]

I remember when re5 came out every one who played it wanted to get jacked like Chris made me hit the gym

[@ThrillingDuck]

Lmao