ORDER OF RESIDENT EVIL GAMES: Everything You Need to Know
Order of Resident Evil Games is a guide to help you navigate the complex and extensive universe of survival horror games created by Capcom. The series has grown significantly over the years, with over 30 titles across various platforms. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step approach to understanding the chronological order of the Resident Evil games, including the main series, spin-offs, and remakes.
Understanding the Timeline
Before diving into the order, it's essential to grasp the different eras of the Resident Evil series. The games can be broadly categorized into three main eras: the original Resident Evil 1-3, the rebooted series with Resident Evil 4, and the more recent titles.
The original era is characterized by tank controls, static camera angles, and a stronger focus on exploration and puzzle-solving. The rebooted series, starting with Resident Evil 4, introduced over-the-shoulder third-person shooter mechanics and a greater emphasis on action.
Here's a rough outline of the three eras:
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- Original Era (Resident Evil 1-3): 1996-2003
- Rebooted Era (Resident Evil 4-6): 2005-2012
- Modern Era (Resident Evil 7 and beyond): 2017-present
Main Series Order
The mainline Resident Evil games follow a chronological order that's not necessarily the same as their release order. Here's the correct order:
- Resident Evil (1996)
- Resident Evil 2 (1998)
- Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (1999)
- Resident Evil – Code: Veronica (2000)
- Resident Evil 4 (2005)
- Resident Evil 5 (2009)
- Resident Evil 6 (2012)
- Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017)
- Resident Evil Village (2021)
Keep in mind that some spin-offs and remakes may have deviated from this order, but the above list represents the mainline games in chronological order.
Spin-Offs and RemakesSpin-Offs and Remakes
There are several spin-off games and remakes that don't necessarily follow the main series' order. Here are a few notable ones:
- Resident Evil: Code: Veronica X (2000) - a remake of Code: Veronica
- Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles (2007) - a light gun shooter based on the first three games
- Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles (2009) - a sequel to Umbrella Chronicles
- Resident Evil: Revelations (2012) - a spin-off set between Resident Evil 4 and 5
- Resident Evil: Revelations 2 (2015) - a sequel to Revelations
- Resident Evil: Zero (2016) - a remake of the original game
- Resident Evil: Biohazard (2016) - a remake of Resident Evil 0
These spin-offs and remakes can be a bit confusing, but they often provide additional context and insights into the Resident Evil universe.
Chronological Order of All Resident Evil Games
For a more comprehensive understanding, here's a table listing all Resident Evil games in chronological order:
| Game | Release Year | Era |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Evil | 1996 | Original Era |
| Resident Evil 2 | 1998 | Original Era |
| Resident Evil 3: Nemesis | 1999 | Original Era |
| Resident Evil – Code: Veronica | 2000 | Original Era |
| Resident Evil: Code: Veronica X | 2000 | Original Era |
| Resident Evil 4 | 2005 | Rebooted Era |
| Resident Evil 5 | 2009 | Rebooted Era |
| Resident Evil: Revelations | 2012 | Rebooted Era |
| Resident Evil 6 | 2012 | Rebooted Era |
| Resident Evil: Revelations 2 | 2015 | Rebooted Era |
| Resident Evil 7: Biohazard | 2017 | Modern Era |
| Resident Evil Village | 2021 | Modern Era |
Additional Tips and Recommendations
Now that you have a better understanding of the order of the Resident Evil games, here are some additional tips and recommendations:
- Start with the original Resident Evil 1 to experience the classic survival horror gameplay.
- Play Resident Evil 2 and 3 as a consecutive duo to get the full story and gameplay experience.
- Resident Evil 4 is a significant departure from the original series, so be prepared for a different gameplay style.
- If you want to experience the series in chronological order, play the original Resident Evil 0 and then Resident Evil 1.
- Keep in mind that some games, like Revelations and Revelations 2, offer additional storylines and characters that may not be essential to the main narrative.
Early Years: Resident Evil 1-3
The first three games in the series set the tone for the survival horror genre and introduced the world to the sinister Umbrella Corporation. Resident Evil 1 (1996) revolutionized the industry with its tank controls and fixed camera angles, while Resident Evil 2 (1998) improved upon the formula with its pre-rendered backgrounds and more complex gameplay. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (1999) concluded the original trilogy, introducing the relentless Nemesis monster that has become synonymous with the series.
Playing the games in this order allows you to appreciate the gradual evolution of the series. Resident Evil 1's primitive graphics and gameplay are a nostalgic reminder of the early days of survival horror, while Resident Evil 2's improvements set the stage for the more complex and intense gameplay of Resident Evil 3.
However, some fans argue that playing the games in this order can be a bit disjointed, as the story is not always linear. For example, Resident Evil 2's story takes place before Resident Evil 1, but the gameplay is more complex and challenging. This can make it difficult for new players to jump into the series without some background knowledge.
Remakes and Reboot: Resident Evil 4-6
The release of Resident Evil 4 (2005) marked a significant shift in the series, introducing over-the-shoulder camera angles and more action-oriented gameplay. This change in direction was met with both praise and criticism, but it ultimately revitalized the series and brought in a new audience. Resident Evil 5 (2009) continued this trend, introducing co-op gameplay and a more fast-paced experience.
Resident Evil 6 (2012) was a return to form for the series, incorporating elements from the classic games while also introducing new features like the "Agent Hunt" mode. However, some fans felt that the game's focus on action and co-op gameplay detracted from the series' horror roots.
Playing the games in this order allows you to see the evolution of the series from a more horror-focused gameplay to a more action-oriented experience. However, it's worth noting that some fans may find the changes in direction jarring, and the series' identity crisis may be a turn-off for some.
The New Era: Resident Evil 7-8
Modern Revival: Resident Evil 7-8 and the Future of the Series
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017) marked a return to the series' horror roots, introducing a first-person perspective and a more atmospheric, horror-focused gameplay experience. The game's success was a breath of fresh air for the series, and it paved the way for the release of Resident Evil 8: Village (2021).
Resident Evil 8: Village is a more refined and polished experience, building upon the foundations laid by Resident Evil 7. The game's focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat makes it a great entry point for new players, while also providing a satisfying experience for veterans of the series.
Playing the games in this order allows you to appreciate the evolution of the series from a more horror-focused gameplay to a more refined and polished experience. The games' improved graphics, sound design, and gameplay mechanics make them a joy to play, and the series' return to its horror roots has been well-received by fans and critics alike.
Comparison of the Series
| Game | Release Year | Platform(s) | Gameplay Style | Story |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Evil 1 | 1996 | PS1, PC | Survival Horror | Classic |
| Resident Evil 2 | 1998 | PS1, PC | Survival Horror | Improved |
| Resident Evil 3: Nemesis | 1999 | PS1, PC | Survival Horror | Concluded the original trilogy |
| Resident Evil 4 | 2005 | GCN, PS2, PC | Action-Oriented | Revitalized the series |
| Resident Evil 5 | 2009 | PS3, X360, PC | Action-Oriented | Co-op gameplay |
| Resident Evil 6 | 2012 | PS3, X360, PC | Action-Oriented | Agent Hunt mode |
| Resident Evil 7: Biohazard | 2017 | PS4, XONE, PC | First-Person Survival Horror | Return to horror roots |
| Resident Evil 8: Village | 2021 | PS5, XBX, PC | First-Person Survival Horror | Refined and polished experience |
Expert Insights and Final Thoughts
Playing the Resident Evil series in the correct order can be a daunting task, but it's essential for fans who want to appreciate the series' evolution and growth. From the early years of survival horror to the modern revival, the series has undergone significant changes, and understanding the context of each game is crucial for a satisfying experience.
While some fans may find the changes in direction jarring, the series' willingness to experiment and innovate has been a key factor in its success. The release of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard marked a return to the series' horror roots, and Resident Evil 8: Village has built upon this foundation, providing a refined and polished experience.
Ultimately, the order in which you play the Resident Evil series is up to personal preference. However, playing the games in the order outlined above provides a clear understanding of the series' evolution and growth, and it's essential for fans who want to appreciate the series' history and context.
Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a new player, the Resident Evil series has something to offer. With its rich history, complex gameplay, and atmospheric sound design, it's a must-play series for fans of survival horror and action-adventure games.
Related Visual Insights
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