The Resident Evil franchise has amassed an impressive roster of characters over the years, many of whom have become iconic figures in the gaming landscape. Key protagonists like Leon Kennedy, Chris Redfield, his sister Claire, and Jill Valentine frequently appear, establishing themselves as household names among gamers. However, the universe of Resident Evil is rich with a variety of secondary characters that have also left a significant impact on fans, particularly one character who has not been prominently featured for a while: Barry Burton.
Why Barry Burton Deserves a Comeback in Resident Evil
Barry Burton: A Nostalgic Legacy Character
Barry Burton first emerged in the original Resident Evil, which launched in 1996, alongside notable characters such as Chris Redfield, Jill Valentine, Rebecca Chambers, and Albert Wesker. As a dedicated member of S.T.A.R.S. Alpha Team, he played a crucial role in assisting Jill during her exploration of the Spencer Mansion.
Immediately, Barry captured the hearts of fans, bolstered by the quirky charm and sometimes campy voice acting of the first game. He delivered memorable lines, such as the famous quip, “You were almost a Jill Sandwich.”These moments have since contributed to his status as a beloved figure in the franchise.
Throughout the series, Barry continues to make appearances, albeit mostly through collectibles or as a nostalgic reference. However, his voiced moments, particularly in titles like Resident Evil 3: Nemesis, shine brightly, proving that even brief interactions can elevate the gaming experience. Additionally, Barry has taken on playable roles in several games, including Resident Evil 5, Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D, and Resident Evil: Revelations 2, further solidifying his cherished place in the hearts of fans.
How Barry Burton Could Make a Comeback
In the evolving landscape of the modern Resident Evil series, the infusion of humor and fun is somewhat lacking; Barry Burton could serve as an ideal candidate to restore that balance. The last canonical appearance of Barry was in Resident Evil: Revelations 2, which is set approximately ten years before the events of Resident Evil Village.
By the end of Revelations 2, Barry has embraced his role as a father, continuing to maintain a close bond with Claire Redfield. This strong interpersonal relationship, alongside his connections with Jill Valentine and Chris Redfield, opens intriguing avenues for his return in future storylines. Perhaps Barry could emerge to support Claire should she feature in an upcoming title.
It’s worth noting that Barry is considerably older than both Claire and Chris—almost 20 years the latter’s junior— which may limit his physical involvement in action-packed scenarios. Nevertheless, even a brief cameo by Barry would likely fulfill long-standing fan requests and reignite the fond memories associated with this enduring character.
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