Which Resident Evil Game Should I Play First

‘Resident Evil 7: Biohazard’ is an excellent choice for your first Resident Evil game.

So, you’re curious about diving into the world of survival horror? Maybe you’ve heard whispers of zombies, terrifying creatures, and a tense atmosphere. It is quite overwhelming where to begin, and the question “which resident evil game should i play first” is very common. It is an understandable concern.

Many great titles exist within the franchise, and each offers unique experiences, but starting somewhere is vital. ‘Resident Evil 7’ introduces newer mechanics and a distinct first-person perspective, which makes it a great entry point. Its story also acts as an independent narrative.

Which Resident Evil Game Should I Play First?

So, you’re ready to dive into the creepy, zombie-filled world of Resident Evil? That’s awesome! It’s a series known for its scares, puzzles, and thrilling stories. But with so many games, figuring out where to begin can feel like facing a horde of the undead. Don’t worry; we’re here to help you choose the perfect starting point. This guide will break down some of the best options for newcomers, focusing on what makes each game a good introduction to the Resident Evil universe. We will help you navigate through different styles of gameplay, storylines, and how each game ties into the larger narrative, so you can confidently pick the best game to kick off your survival horror adventure.

Understanding the Resident Evil Landscape

Before we jump into specific games, let’s get a general idea of what makes a Resident Evil game tick. The series has evolved quite a bit over the years, but it still contains some core elements: you’ll be exploring spooky locations, solving puzzles, managing your limited ammo, and, of course, fighting all kinds of nasty monsters. It’s a mix of action, adventure, and suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The Classic Style vs. Modern Style

One big split in the series is between the “classic” style and the more “modern” style. Classic Resident Evil games, like the first few titles, use fixed camera angles and have a slower, more deliberate pace. This means you might not see what’s around the corner, and you have to be careful when moving. It makes the suspense feel very intense. Modern Resident Evil games, generally starting with Resident Evil 4, have an over-the-shoulder camera view, and have more action-focused gameplay. These games are faster-paced and more like third-person shooters. They offer more freedom of movement, but the horror is still very present. The style that’s right for you will depend on your preferences and what type of experience you’re seeking.

Resident Evil (Remake) – A Perfect Starting Point

If you really want to start with the beginning, or close to it, the Resident Evil Remake (2002) is an excellent choice. It’s a reimagining of the very first game, and it is polished to perfection. This version features updated graphics, enhanced gameplay, and a more chilling atmosphere. Even if you played the original long ago, this remake presents it in a new light. If you like the classics, this is the best way to start, you will appreciate the story and lore.

• Why it’s great for beginners:
• Easy to grasp gameplay mechanics.
• Classic survival horror experience.
• Introduces core characters and story elements.
• Has puzzles that aren’t too hard but very interesting.
• It’s a completely self-contained story.

The Resident Evil Remake sets the stage for everything that follows, establishing many of the recurring themes and characters in the Resident Evil universe. If you like the slow-paced tension of the game, you’ll have a great time!

Resident Evil 2 (Remake) – Thrills and Zombies

Another excellent entry point is the Resident Evil 2 Remake (2019). This game is a masterclass in remaking a classic. It maintains the core story and characters of the original while modernizing the gameplay. It offers a compelling experience with breathtaking graphics, terrifying enemies, and a gripping narrative. You play as either Leon S. Kennedy or Claire Redfield, and the story changes depending on your choice. That means you can play the game twice and still have different experiences. You can choose which character’s story you want to start with.

Key aspects of the Resident Evil 2 Remake:

• Modernized Gameplay: The over-the-shoulder camera and updated controls make this a great jumping-in point for new players who might be intimidated by older, fixed-camera styles.
• Fantastic Horror: It manages to be incredibly scary, with lurching zombies and terrifying mutated creatures. Every encounter feels dangerous.
• Dual Campaigns: You can play as either Leon or Claire, each with their own story elements and unique challenges, providing a ton of replay value.
• A Great Story: The story is engaging and easy to follow, introducing key characters and the Umbrella Corporation’s sinister activities.

If you prefer a good mix of action and horror, with a very modern feel, then the Resident Evil 2 Remake might be the best place to start.

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard – A Scary Change of Pace

If you want something that feels completely different from the earlier entries, try Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017). This game changes up the formula by adopting a first-person perspective. It’s a fresh, scary new direction for the series. It still keeps the core Resident Evil elements of exploration, puzzle-solving, and tense combat, but the change in perspective makes it a truly terrifying and unique experience. You are in the shoes of a new character, Ethan Winters, who is looking for his missing wife.

Why Resident Evil 7 is good for a first game:

• New Story and Characters: It’s a self-contained story, so you don’t need to know much about the previous games to enjoy it. It’s a great introduction to the series’ tone and style.
• First-Person Perspective: This adds a level of intensity and terror that the series hadn’t seen before. It’s very immersive.
• Great Horror: The game focuses on atmospheric horror and creates a very tense and frightening experience. It is not just jumpscares, but dread that builds up.
• Different Style of Gameplay: While it maintains puzzle and inventory management, the gameplay is different compared to others. This can be appealing to those who want to try something new.

If you’re comfortable with first-person games and are seeking a genuinely scary experience, Resident Evil 7 is an excellent choice. Just be ready for some serious scares.

Resident Evil 4 – The Action-Packed Option

While it leans toward a more action-oriented style, Resident Evil 4 (2005) and its remake (2023) are iconic and could be a great starting point if you like action with a side of horror. It takes you to a remote village in Europe, where you have to rescue the president’s daughter, and the village is full of infected locals. This game shifted the series from the fixed camera angles to an over-the-shoulder perspective and introduced more active combat mechanics. The original Resident Evil 4 (2005) was a revolution in action horror. The game’s remake does an amazing job of updating its visuals and gameplay. Either the original or the remake is great to start with.

Why Resident Evil 4 is beginner friendly:

• Action-Oriented Gameplay: This is more action-focused than most Resident Evil games, which can make it more engaging for players who prefer faster gameplay.
• Intriguing Story: The story is thrilling and introduces a new type of infected enemies called “Las Plagas”. This story gives a reason to the adventure, not just running from zombies.
• Iconic Moments: It has so many memorable moments and characters that fans of the series adore, which you would also love if you started here.
• Modern Third-Person Camera: The over-the-shoulder camera view makes it accessible to new players. You can always see around you.

If you prefer your horror to be mixed with a lot of action, then you would love Resident Evil 4. While it’s a departure from classic survival horror, it’s still a brilliant example of the genre, and it is great for new players!

A Look at the Games to Avoid Starting With

While many Resident Evil games are great, some are not very good first games. Some of these games might require you to have some context about other games, or they might be more challenging, or have a story that’s not ideal for beginners. Here’s a quick look at the ones you might want to leave for later:

Games to wait on:

• Resident Evil 0: This prequel is quite difficult and throws a lot of complicated mechanics and resource management at new players early on. It is good once you get used to other games first.
• Resident Evil 5 & 6: These two are more action-focused and less scary than other entries in the series. They also depend heavily on prior knowledge of the story, making them less suitable as an introduction to the series. Resident Evil 5 is coop focussed, and Resident Evil 6 is a very long game with a story that is difficult to follow if you are new to the series.
• Resident Evil Code: Veronica: This one has a complex story and can be quite challenging for beginners due to its classic survival horror mechanics. It is also one of the lesser remade games in the series, making it a good game to avoid starting with.
• Resident Evil Revelations series: While these are solid spin-offs, they have complex stories and are best experienced once you’re more familiar with the main entries in the series. You should avoid them as your first Resident Evil game.
• Resident Evil 3 (Remake): Although it’s a fun action-packed experience, the story is more enjoyable if you have played Resident Evil 2 first and also because it is shorter than Resident Evil 2, you may feel lost by it and you won’t understand why Nemesis is stalking you.

It’s best to wait on these games until you’re more comfortable with the series’ lore and gameplay.

Considering Your Preferences

Choosing the right first game depends on what you are looking for in a survival horror game. Do you want a slow-paced, suspenseful experience? Or something more action-packed and fast? Here’s a simple guide to help you choose based on your preference:

What Kind of Horror Are You Looking For?

• For Classic Survival Horror Fans: Start with Resident Evil (Remake). The slow-paced gameplay and tension will be perfect for you. You love the old games, start here!
• For Action-Oriented Players: Start with Resident Evil 4 (Remake or Original). If you love shooting and monsters, go for this one!
• For Modern Horror Fans: Go for Resident Evil 2 (Remake). It’s the perfect mix of modern gameplay with classic horror elements. It has good graphics, good gameplay and is accessible for new players.
• For a Unique and Scary Experience: Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is a must-play. The first-person perspective and story will make the game unforgettable. It is the scariest game in the series, so be prepared!

Think about what appeals to you most, and this will help you make the best choice for your first Resident Evil adventure.

A Summary Table to Help You Decide

To help you make your decision even easier, here is a table summarizing the pros and cons of each of our top recommended starting points:

Take all these pros and cons into account when choosing the best starting point.

Choosing the right Resident Evil game to start with will help you appreciate what makes this series so special. There is no wrong choice, because all the games are great, but some are better as starting points than others. Consider the game styles, the story, and your own preferences to choose the best game that suits your personality! Happy gaming and stay safe from zombies!

What Resident Evil Should You Play FIRST?

Final Thoughts

For newcomers, Resident Evil 2 Remake provides the most accessible and enjoyable starting point. It blends classic survival horror with modern gameplay. This combination makes it less frustrating for first-time players.

Resident Evil 7 is another great option because of its isolated and tense atmosphere. It uses a first person view making the experience more immersive. However, some might find its more horror focused approach a bit overwhelming.

Ultimately, which resident evil game should i play first depends on your preference, but Resident Evil 2 Remake is a must-play because it perfectly balances challenge and accessibility.