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Hannah Block

BS in Interaction Design — Interaction Design
Course:
Game Worlds & Industry
Faculty:
Houston Howard
Term:
2026 Spring

Resident Evil 1 Reboot

The project was to analyze a video game IP released before 2000, define its Franchise DNA, and create a modern reboot strategy that preserves core identity while updating gameplay and expanding into a profitable franchise ecosystem. 

Process:

PART 1: Mapping the IP

  • Brand elements (logo, colors, tone, taglines, fan culture, reputation)
  • Franchise history (sequels, merch, media extensions)
  • Current ownership and licensing details (or industry estimates)

PART 2: Franchise DNA

  • Theme / Soapbox
  • Hook / Commercial Idea
  • Core Characters (flaws, silhouettes, relationships)
  • World (key locations, rules, factions)
  • Wild Card (music, style, iconic mechanics)

PART 3: Reboot Character & World

  • Hero character using FRAMES (logline, flaw, arc, visual/silhouette)
  • Expanded world (map, factions, unique rules)

PART 4: Theme & Gameplay Alignment

  • Original themes vs. gameplay loop
  • Proposed improvements for better alignment

PART 5: Reboot Strategy

  • What to preserve (non-negotiable DNA)
  • What to modernize (gameplay, controls, graphics, story)
  • Monetization model + how mechanics support it
  • 3 outbound licensing opportunities (partner, fee/royalty estimates)
  • 2 transmedia extensions
  • 1 inbound license and why it fits
Learning Outcomes:
  • Analyze an existing video game IP as a brand and franchise property (including brand elements, history, ownership, and licensing).
  • Identify and clearly define the Franchise DNA of a game (Theme/Soapbox, Hook, Characters, World, and Wild Card elements).
  • Preserve the core identity of a franchise while modernizing its gameplay, storytelling, controls, pacing, and graphics.
  • Align core themes with gameplay loops and player motivation, and propose improvements where needed.
  • Develop a reboot strategy that includes updated character and worldbuilding (using frameworks like FRAMES).
  • Create a viable modern monetization model and explain how gameplay mechanics support it.
  • Identify and evaluate licensing and transmedia opportunities (outbound and inbound) to expand the IP into a broader franchise ecosystem.
  • Think and present like a studio executive, producing professional-level analysis, creative strategy, and visuals.
  • Demonstrate depth of research, originality, and strong alignment between theme, mechanics, and business strategy.
Tags:
Advertising,
Branding,
Concept Design