From spine-tingling mansions to isolated villages, the Resident Evil series has captivated gamers for over two decades with its signature blend of horror, intricate puzzles, and strategic combat. For newcomers, the extensive catalog of mainline titles and spin-offs set across different timelines can seem daunting.
But fear not! This comprehensive guide breaks down the optimal path for experiencing this legendary franchise in chronological order. Whether you’re eager to re-live iconic moments or dive in for the very first time, this roadmap will help you unravel the complex Resident Evil storyline from start to finish.
Strap in for a wild ride back to the doomed Raccoon City, shadowy facilities of the Umbrella Corporation, and even the haunting landscapes of Europe. Together, we’ll battle bloodthirsty BOWs (bio-organic weapons), solve challenging puzzles, and unearth deep secrets hidden in this captivating universe of survival horror.
Navigating the Complex Timelines of Resident Evil
While release order provides one way to experience the Resident Evil saga, the games also loosely fall under certain narrative arcs that align more to the in-universe chronology. Understanding these main story arcs gives helpful context on how the events and games fit together within the convoluted Resident Evil timelines.
The Raccoon City Arc
This pivotal arc focuses on the outbreak and eventual destruction of Raccoon City, along with Umbrella’s experiments and facilities nearby. It includes:
- Resident Evil 0 – Set just before the mansion incident, RE0 reveals the origins of the T-Virus outbreak on the Ecliptic Express and Umbrella’s early experiments.
- Resident Evil – The mansion incident marks the initial viral outbreak in Raccoon City, setting subsequent events in motion.
- Resident Evil 2 – Taking place shortly after RE1, both Leon and Claire’s stories occur in the midst of Raccoon City’s devastating viral outbreak.
- Resident Evil 3 – Concurrent with RE2, Jill’s escape from the doomed Raccoon City marks its final days before destruction.
- Umbrella Chronicles – Revisits key events like the mansion incident and Raccoon City through flashbacks.
The Umbrella Corporation Arc
Spanning the company’s peak through its downfall, this arc focuses on Umbrella’s viral experiments, facilities, and BOWs. Key games include:
- Code Veronica – Claire infiltrates Umbrella’s headquarters, learning more about the company and Red Queen AI.
- Darkside Chronicles – Revisits Umbrella’s research into BOWs like Tyrant and Nemesis through flashbacks.
- Umbrella Chronicles – Explores additional Umbrella research labs and viral outbreaks.
- Resident Evil 4 – Events surrounding Los Illuminados lead to Umbrella’s eventual dissolution.
The Bioterrorism Arc
With Umbrella gone, new organizations continue bioterrorism. Protagonists fight against these emerging threats.
- Degeneration – Claire and Leon deal with a bioterror attack at Harvardville Airport.
- Revelations – BSAA agents Jill and Chris counter a bioterrorism threat aboard a stranded cruise ship.
- Resident Evil 5 – Chris and Sheva battle the emerging threat of Tricell in Africa.
- Revelations 2 – Bioterrorism remains a threat, with Claire and Moira Burton survivor a plot on Sushestvovanie Island.
- Resident Evil 6 – Leon, Chris, and Jake Mueller confront Neo-Umbrella’s attacks across the globe.
The New Terror Arc
The most recent storylines involve new bio-organic enemies and the next generation of protagonists:
- Resident Evil 7 – Ethan Winters battles the Baker family molded by a new E-Series bioweapon.
- Village – Taking place after RE7, Ethan searches for his kidnapped daughter Rose and confronts the Four Lords.
Keeping these major arcs in mind provides helpful framing when playing the games chronologically. While certain titles like the Revelations spin-offs or arcade shooters have more self-contained stories, the mainline games follow these overarching narrative threads. Whether it is Raccoon City’s doomed fate, Umbrella’s rise and fall from power, or the successors who continue bioterrorism, these story arcs all collectively build the expansive Resident Evil mythos over time in a loosely interconnecting way.
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How to Play Resident Evil Games in Chronological Order
The pulsating heartbeats, eerie silences punctuated by distant moans, and that ever-present fear of what lurks around the next corner—welcome to the captivating world of Resident Evil. For the ardent gamer and the rookie alike, navigating the twisted narrative of this iconic horror series can sometimes feel as challenging as evading a horde of the undead.
But fear not, fellow survivor! Whether you’re looking to relive the terror or step into Raccoon City’s fog-laden streets for the first time, this guide is here to help you play Resident Evil games in order seamlessly. In the following, we will the you how you can play all the Resident Evil games in chronological order.
Resident Evil 0
Dive into the captivating universe of the Resident Evil series with “Resident Evil 0.” Even though it was released as the fifth game, its narrative transports players to the earliest events in the series timeline. Journey alongside Rebecca Chambers, a skilled medic from the Special Tactics and Rescue Service (S.T.A.R.S.), and Billy Coen, an ex-marine with a heart of gold.
Together, they stumble upon a train overrun with the undead in the shadowy depths of the Arklay Mountains, which incidentally is a stone’s throw away from the infamous Spencer Mansion. As they trudge on, players delve deep into the backgrounds of notorious series antagonists like Albert Wesker and William Birkin.
But that’s not all! The storyline sheds light on the dark beginnings of the nefarious Umbrella Corporation and the birth of its horrifying T-Virus. Everything culminates with Rebecca setting her course for the mansion, setting the stage for her role in the iconic “RE 1.”
Resident Evil
The saga continues with the game that laid the foundation for the horror genre – “Resident Evil.” While the nostalgic may reach for the classic version on the PS1, we strongly recommend experiencing the modern remake, which has been revamped to captivate today’s audience. Featuring the daunting fixed camera angles, the quirky yet challenging tank controls, and an intriguing maze-like design that will have players backtracking their steps, this game redefined horror.
Choose to step into the shoes of either Jill Valentine or Chris Redfield, brave members of the S.T.A.R.S elite team. Their mission? To find the missing Alpha team that’s gone radio silent. As you navigate through the eerie corridors of the Spencer Mansion, the twisted secrets of the biotechnological giant, Umbrella Corporation, unfold.
Given Umbrella’s pervasive presence in the Resident Evil universe, every revelation here is a crucial piece of the puzzle. Loaded with adrenaline-pumping jumpscares, intricate puzzles, and jaw-dropping twists, starting from where it all began provides the perfect introduction to the series.
Resident Evil 2
Continue your thrilling expedition through the Resident Evil series with the unforgettable “Resident Evil 2.” The scene is set just a mere two months after the harrowing events of RE 0 and 1. Players are introduced to two fresh faces on the scene: the zealous rookie cop, Leon Kennedy, and Claire Redfield, the brave sister of Chris Redfield from the previous game.
Each of these characters has a uniquely woven narrative, providing gamers with two interconnected yet individually rich campaigns to explore. One of the standout introductions in this game is the mysterious Ada Wong, whose enigmatic presence is felt throughout the series. Not forgetting, the formidable Tyrant enemy who surely gives everyone the chills!
Delve deeper into the eerie world of bio-experiments as you uncover William Birkin’s endeavors on a more menacing strain – the G-virus. As Leon and Claire navigate the challenges, players unearth alarming secrets about the shadowy dealings of the Umbrella Corporation and its unsettling relationship with the Raccoon Police Department.
Resident Evil 3: Nemesis
Now, as you step into “Resident Evil 3: Nemesis”, the timeline might seem a tad complex, but fear not! To maintain a smooth narrative experience, we suggest playing it right after its predecessor, RE 2. Although the first segment of RE 3 is set before the occurrences of RE 2 and the latter segment post-RE 2, playing it in one go will in no way diminish the immersion or your grasp on the narrative.
For clarity’s sake, we’ve positioned it fourth in this lineup, mainly because its climax propels the overarching story past the events of RE 2. The game kicks off with Jill Valentine, who is grappling with the traumatic events of her previous encounter in RE 1. She is on a frantic quest to evacuate a zombie-infested Raccoon City.
However, the plot thickens when the control momentarily shifts to her resourceful mercenary companion, Carlos Oliviera, especially during a time when Jill finds herself in a tight spot. RE 3 also marks the chilling debut of the relentless Nemesis and divulges the eventual fate of the doomed Raccoon City. So, if you’re eager to play Resident Evil games in order, this chapter should not be missed!
Resident Evil Survivor
Welcome to a different flavor of Resident Evil – “Resident Evil Survivor”. Venturing from the series’ traditional perspective, this game gifts players a first-person light gun shooter experience, marking its territory as the inaugural major spin-off in this legendary horror series. Players step into the shoes of a protagonist plagued by amnesia, piecing together a puzzling past, attempting to unearth how they ended up in such a dreadful situation.
Now, while the captivating narrative of self-discovery offers plenty to sink your teeth into, some critics haven’t been particularly kind to it. There are murmurs in the gaming community, tagging it as a mere cash grab that’s riding high on the Resident Evil wave. However, if you’re a true-blue fan and wish to play Resident Evil games in order, this should definitely be on your list, if not for its lore, then for its different approach.
Resident Evil: Code Veronica
Our resilient heroine, Claire Redfield, isn’t done yet. Still on the relentless hunt for her brother, Claire’s journey propels her from the precincts of the police station to the chaotic streets of Raccoon City and now, straight into the lion’s den – the Umbrella Corporation’s headquarters in Paris. But fate throws a wrench in her plans when she finds herself detained by the hawk-eyed security team.
It doesn’t take long for Claire to realize that the undead nightmares of her past haven’t been left behind but are eerily becoming part of her present. “Resident Evil: Code Veronica”, a gem originating from Dreamcast, hasn’t been granted the remake treatment yet. But for those looking to play Resident Evil games in order, it’s readily available across various online platforms, waiting to be added to your collection. Don’t miss out on this intricate chapter in the Resident Evil lore!
Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles
Journey deeper into the lore with “Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles”, a unique perspective into the series. Set as a precursor to the action-packed Resident Evil 4, this game offers an intriguing recap, revisiting iconic scenarios from Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil – Code: Veronica. Originally tailored for the Wii, this captivating experience also found its way into the “Resident Evil Chronicles HD Collection.”
While some players expressed reservations about the controls, the game predominantly received a warm welcome from the gaming community. However, here’s a friendly piece of advice: if you plan to play Resident Evil games in order, having a solid understanding of the prior titles will certainly enhance your Darkside Chronicles experience. Otherwise, the narrative might seem a tad convoluted.
Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles
Dive into the annals of one of the most enigmatic organizations with “Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles”. This on-rails shooter game, initially crafted for the Wii and subsequently introduced to PS3 enthusiasts, truly struck a chord with fans upon its debut.
What makes it a standout? As the title subtly hints, the game grants players a backstage pass to the intricate web of the Umbrella Corporation’s operations. While you’ll traipse through familiar terrains and events from earlier games, The Umbrella Chronicles also unravels fresh tales and insights. It’s an unmissable chapter for those dedicated to play Resident Evil games in order, providing both nostalgia and new revelations in one thrilling package.
Resident Evil 4
The universe of Resident Evil beckons once more, and this time, it brings an old friend back into the fray – Leon Kennedy. If “Code Veronica” was the stage for Claire Redfield’s return, “Resident Evil 4” shines the spotlight squarely on Leon’s endeavors. Remember Leon, the ex-cop from previous entries?
Well, he’s now been handed a monumental task by the United States government: the rescue of the president’s very own daughter. Venturing into an isolated village tucked away in the Spanish countryside, Leon soon realizes that he’s about to encounter adversaries unlike any he’s faced before. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill zombies; they’re sharper, more cunning.
This revamped edition gussies up the visuals, tweaks gameplay elements, and introduces more dynamic enemy behaviors. All these enhancements, while still paying homage to the original title that graced the GameCube, making it essential for those looking to play Resident Evil games in order.
Resident Evil: Revelations
Post the unveiling of “Resident Evil 5,” whispers swirled among fans, voicing concerns about the beloved series potentially veering too heavily into action terrain. These worries only intensified after “Resident Evil 6” faced a barrage of critiques for its action-heavy gameplay.
However, Capcom, with its trademark flair, steered the ship (quite literally) back towards its iconic horror roots with “Resident Evil: Revelations.” Initially conceived for the Nintendo 3DS, this installment harks back to the spine-tingling horror ambiance that fans adore. Players find themselves back in the trusty shoes of Jill Valentine and Chris Redfield, navigating the claustrophobic confines of a cruise ship.
This change of setting, from the expansive locales of its predecessors to the more restrictive cruise vessel, injected a fresh dose of tension and unpredictability into the gameplay. While it might not heavily build upon the overarching lore, for those who play Resident Evil games in order, this one promises an experience that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly novel.
Resident Evil 5
The fifth iteration of the Resident Evil series pivots noticeably, trading its signature horror vibe for a more action-packed rhythm. Chris Redfield, a fan-favorite, takes center stage once again, but this time he’s not alone. Partnering with him is the newly introduced Sheva Alomar. Both now serve the noble cause as agents of the Bioterrorism Security Assessment Alliance (B.S.A.A.). A distinguishing feature of “Resident Evil 5” is its co-op gameplay design, a departure from the series’ traditional solo experience.
While the AI partner often drew criticism for being somewhat… less than helpful, pairing up with a real-life player proved to be a winning strategy. Together, Chris and Sheva embark on a high-stakes mission to stop Ricardo Irving, a man who threatens to unleash a devastating bio-organic weapon on unsuspecting locals. For those keen to play Resident Evil games in order, this chapter offers an adrenaline-charged escapade.
Resident Evil: Revelations 2
Our beloved Claire Redfield returns to the spotlight, and joining her in this harrowing adventure is none other than Barry Burton, making his debut as a playable character in this spin-off narrative. The plot thickens when Claire, Barry, and others find themselves ensnared in a sinister trap, captured during a seemingly innocent gathering.
They wake to find themselves on a desolate island tucked away in the Baltic Sea. From there, it’s a fight for survival, a test of wits, and a journey through unnerving mysteries. “Resident Evil: Revelations 2” is akin to a roller-coaster, with its highs and lows. While it might present a somewhat uneven experience at times, it still offers gripping moments that make it an essential play for those looking to traverse the Resident Evil series in its proper order.
Resident Evil 6
Diving into the complex narrative of “Resident Evil 6”, players are given the unique opportunity to step into the shoes of various characters, each showcasing different segments of the storyline. First, we find ourselves navigating the treacherous world as Jake Muller, none other than the offspring of the infamous Albert Wesker. Jake’s journey is fraught with danger as he valiantly tries to evade Ustanak, a relentless BOW in hot pursuit.
Parallelly, we see Chris Redfield return with renewed vigor, his aim set on decimating the emerging threat of the Neo-Umbrella organization. On yet another tangent, the ever-resourceful Leon S. Kennedy is faced with the heart-wrenching task of eliminating an infected President. He subsequently finds himself entangled in the webs spun by the Neo-Umbrella outfit. When you’re eager to play Resident Evil games in order, this installment offers a multi-perspective experience that’s tough to beat.
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard
With the mixed reception of “Resident Evil 6”, the onus was on Capcom to steer the Resident Evil ship back into favorable waters. Enter “Resident Evil 7: Biohazard”, a game that stood as a beacon of rejuvenation for the iconic series. While it revamped numerous aspects of the gameplay and narrative, it did so without compromising the foundational elements that endeared the original games to fans worldwide.
One of the most jarring shifts was the adoption of a first-person viewpoint, a transformation that hadn’t been prominently featured since some of the franchise’s lesser-known spin-offs. At the heart of this spine-chilling tale is Ethan Winters, a fresh face to the series. Capcom’s approach with this installment harkens back to the raw essence of Resident Evil – a rich concoction of sheer terror, strategic combat, and grotesquely captivating adversaries.
Instead of the traditional undead adversaries, players are introduced to the chilling mold monsters. As for the story? It follows Ethan’s desperate search for Mia, his missing wife, leading him to the haunting depths of Louisiana’s swamps. Stumbling upon a house eerily reminiscent of the iconic mansion from earlier titles, Ethan’s pursuit takes a nightmarish turn. It’s a wild ride, but oh, so worth it for those looking to play Resident Evil games in order.
Resident Evil Village
The journey to play Resident Evil games in order would be incomplete without the enthralling chapter that is “Resident Evil Village”. As a seamless continuation from “Resident Evil 7”, we find ourselves once more stepping into the shoes of the resilient Ethan Winters. Seeking a fresh start and an escape from the harrowing memories of their past, Ethan and Mia embark on a new life in the picturesque yet eerie landscapes of Europe.
However, in true Resident Evil fashion, tranquility is short-lived. The heart of this game revolves around the sudden abduction of Ethan’s precious daughter, Rosemary. The pursuit to rescue her thrusts players into a phantasmagoric world that reads like a chilling fairy tale. The quaint, once-peaceful village is now under the siege of menacing Lycans, drawing inspiration from werewolf lore.
The looming Castle in the backdrop is the dominion of the enigmatic Lady Dimitrescu and her bloodthirsty vampire offspring. Adding to the chilling bestiary is Salvatore Moreau, embodying every aquatic horror one could possibly conjure. What sets “Resident Evil Village” apart is its impeccable balance between bone-chilling narrative and refined combat mechanisms. It masterfully weaves together the most adored elements from its predecessor “Resident Evil 7” and the critically acclaimed “Resident Evil 2” remake.
Moreover, for players craving deeper immersion, the Winters expansion pack serves as an intriguing appetizer, letting fans delve deeper into Rose’s story. With tantalizing hints and cliffhangers, “Resident Evil Village” has expertly set the stage for the potential return of familiar faces in the much-anticipated “Resident Evil 9”. For those on a quest to play Resident Evil games in order, this chapter is an unforgettable experience.
Tracing the Protagonists Across the Resident Evil Universe
The captivating world of Resident Evil is inhabited by a compelling cast of protagonists who valiantly battle the horrors unleashed by the Umbrella Corporation. While some lead the charge in one pivotal game, several prominent characters weave through multiple titles in the series. Understanding these protagonists and their relationships to one another provides invaluable context when playing the games in chronological order.
Several prominent names have led the franchise over the years. Chris Redfield stands as one of the most central figures, appearing as a playable protagonist in several mainline titles including the original Resident Evil, Code Veronica, RE5, RE6, and RE7. He is joined by his younger sister Claire Redfield, who stars in Resident Evil 2 and Code Veronica.
Jill Valentine, Chris’ fellow S.T.A.R.S member from the first game, returns later on as the lead in Resident Evil 3 and Revelations. Leon S. Kennedy enters the fray as the rookie cop in Resident Evil 2, later headlining both Resident Evil 4 and 6. These four form the backbone of the protagonist lineup.
In terms of relationships, Chris and Claire are siblings searching for each other amidst the chaos in Raccoon City. Chris and Jill are long-time partners in the fight against Umbrella, even saving each other’s lives on multiple occasions. Leon forms crucial bonds with both Claire in RE2 and Ada Wong in RE4 during his campaign against bioterrorism. These connections reveal how the characters’ paths intertwine.
Some lesser known yet still critical protagonists also make their mark. Rebecca Chambers, although a side character in RE1, takes the lead in the prequel RE0. Sheva Alomar joins Chris as his AI or co-op partner in RE5. Jake Mueller, son of iconic villain Albert Wesker, plays a central role in RE6. Ethan Winters anchors the newer first-person experiences of RE7 and Village.
When playing the games chronologically, keeping tabs on which protagonist is leading each game helps one track the overarching story. For example, RE2 is focused on Claire and Leon’s nightmare in Raccoon City, while Code Veronica centers on Claire’s continued quest to find Chris after escaping the city. The list below summarize the key protagonists across mainline games:
- RE0 – Rebecca Chambers
- RE1 – Chris Redfield, Jill Valentine
- RE2 – Leon Kennedy, Claire Redfield
- RE3 – Jill Valentine
- REC:V – Claire Redfield
- RE4 – Leon Kennedy
- RE5 – Chris Redfield, Sheva Alomar
- RE6 – Leon Kennedy, Chris Redfield, Jake Mueller
- RE7 – Ethan Winters
- RE8 – Ethan Winters
As shown, the first few games alternate between Leon, Chris, Jill, and Claire before Resident Evil 4 settles on Leon as the lead. Chris then resumes the spotlight in RE5 followed by the ensemble cast of RE6. The latest entries focus on Ethan Winters. Claire and Rebecca have critical appearances in the earlier games while Sheva and Jake play their parts in later installments.
Tracing each protagonist’s journey as they experience key events provides continuity and context to the expansive Resident Evil narrative. Chris, Jill, Leon, Claire, and recurring allies like Rebecca, Sheva, Sherry Birkin, and newcomer Ethan all have unique roles that collectively paint a fascinating larger tale.
Keeping their connections in mind is key for those looking to play the games in chronological order and appreciate the full scope of this legendary horror saga. Whether it is sibling bonds, partnerships forged in battle, or unlikely alliances, these protagonists remind us that cooperation and trust are indispensable, even in the midst of the eerie unknown.
Welcome Aboard, Rookie – Introductory Tips for New Resident Evil Players
Given the numerous games and complex timelines of the Resident Evil universe, it can be daunting figuring out where to start as a fresh recruit. While release order provides one approach, certain titles make for more accessible entry points to get your feet wet before tackling the full catalog chronologically.
Resident Evil 2 (2019 Remake)
This remake of the PlayStation classic offers a perfect on-ramp for modern horror fans. Its over-the-shoulder camera and refined controls are more newcomer-friendly than the tank-style schemes of earlier games. The confined streets of Raccoon City make for a terrifying yet thrilling introduction to Resident Evil’s brand of survival horror. Don’t let the “2” fool you – no prior knowledge is required!
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard
Another strong starting point, RE7 adopts a first-person view and slower pace for tense, horror-centric gameplay. Set apart from previous entries, playing as Ethan Winters lets newcomers learn about this twisted world alongside an equally confused protagonist. Limited ammo and slower movement builds dread organically.
Resident Evil (2002 Remake)
While the original 1996 version is worth a playthrough, the 2002 GameCube remake offers superior graphics and gameplay for new players. The mansion location keeps early scares confined as you uncover the mysteries of the Spencer estate incident that started it all.
Tips for Newcomers
- Take It Slow: Avoid sprinting everywhere. Move cautiously and deliberately check your corners!
- Manage Resources: Ammo and herbs are limited. Make shots count and don’t heal at the first sign of damage.
- Read Notes and Files: Document lore and game tips are key. Read everything!
- Save Often: Don’t rely on autosaves. Manual save at typewriters frequently.
- Solve Puzzles: Keep an eye out for clues to solve tricky puzzles. Examine items carefully.
- Stick With It!: The games can be challenging at first. Stick through the initial learning curve and it gets easier.
While those are some ideal starting points, don’t be afraid to also dive right into the early mainline titles. Resident Evil and Resident Evil 0 establish key lore. Resident Evil 3 showcases Raccoon City’s desperate final hours. Code Veronica bridges the plot to later games. And Resident Evil 4 is a genre-defining experience.
Ultimately, there is no “wrong” Resident Evil to start with as a newcomer. Whether you opt for the classic survival horror entries or modern re-imaginings, the key is giving these games time to grow on you. With practice, you’ll be decimating zombies and mastering mansion puzzles like a seasoned S.T.A.R.S. veteran in no time. Now get out there and start your thrilling Resident Evil initiation, rookie!
