video game: Nintendo GameCube Resident Evil Zero

Developed and published by Capcom in 2002, Resident Evil Zero serves as a prequel to the Resident Evil storyline. The franchise, known as ����_�Biohazard����_�_ in Japan, coined the term ����_�survival horror,����_�_ a genre characterized by limited ammunition and health, dark and complex environments, and a feeling of isolation due to a low number of non-player characters. Released for Nintendo GameCube and Wii consoles, gamers and critics alike praised the game����_��s ability to create a truly terrifying atmosphere. The single-player game, viewed in third-person perspective, centers on two characters: Rebecca Chambers and Billy Coen. The player controls both characters at different points in the storyline, and also takes advantage of the ����_�Zapping System����_�_ utilized in Resident Evil 2, which allows the two characters to confront different puzzles and scenarios within their own unique storylines, but maintain a codependent storyline as well. However, for the first time in the series, both characters can be controlled simultaneously in certain situations. Rebecca and Billy have different characteristics that can be used strategically to overcome obstacles. For instance, Rebecca possesses a smaller amount of health than Billy, who can withstand more damage, but Billy cannot mix remedies like Rebecca can. Each character has their own use in different scenarios. Rebecca is a S.T.A.R.S. medic, Billy an ex-military convict, and both are located in the mountains outside of Raccoon City. Set upon by mutant creatures, results of secret and illegal scientific experiments, Billy is attacked and taken to an underground laboratory. Rebecca must find him, and both must battle the ����_�Queen Leech,����_�_ a mutated life form, to exit the laboratory before it self-destructs. The player must solve puzzles and find items in order to enter different areas and fight enemies, the ultimate goals being to save their allies, discover mysterious secrets, and, most importantly, survive. The environment contains a limited amount of ammunition and healing items, so strategy must be employed for their effective use. Rebecca and Billy can also swap items depending upon which character is currently being played. Fairly well-received, the franchise continued to spawn more sequels, novels, and even a film series.