The Resident Evil game released in 1996 started as a survivor horror game, a first in this genre, and has since morphed into a critically acclaimed series. Few games have managed to accrue such support and iconic immortality among gaming communities worldwide.

Understandably, the series has continued to evolve since the initial release featuring better visuals, changes to the gameplay, and diversity in the platforms on which the games are offered. That may sound like a good thing but makes for an even more challenging task when trying to choose the best Resident Evil game from this collection.

The ideal way to describe this series is a roller coaster of ever-changing stories, characters, and gameplay. Many of the constituent games in this horror collection are revolutionary and have actively contributed to changes within this genre.

If you are interested in some of the best Resident Evil games within this franchise, here is a complete guide with more details. We've included the pros & cons of each game for you to consider. When you get to the end of this guide, you'll be knowledgeable enough to pick the best Resident Evil game for you!

Editors choice

1. Resident Evil 2

9.70 / 10
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Heart-pounding audios, breathtaking visuals, and modern gameplay mechanics make it easy for anyone to play Resident Evil 2 multiple times. The game is an over-the-shoulder action-adventure that lets you wallow in your fear. Items are scarce, and when you can't find a single bullet, the thought of death behind any opened door starts to creep in.

Resident Evil 2 begins with Claire Redfield and rookie cop Leon Kennedy trekking to Raccoon City in search of answers. Both get separated after a terrible accident and what follows is a fight for survival. Despite the old school and basic design, the game doesn't feel frustrating or outdated. Capcom has done an impeccable job of instilling the right amount of nostalgia and retro appeal.

Plotting your next route through the scaring environments and making bets of how many neck bites you can survive is incredibly tense. The City Police Department is an ideal setting in other Resident Evil series, but the addition of three dimensions makes it more magnificent. Some parts are plunged into darkness, and the unseen distance of moaning zombies creates a constant feeling of fear, apprehension, and unease.

Difficulties adapt as you play, especially with the giant hulking mutant that is always lurking near objects you need to progress. Well, this is brilliantly cruel, and the face of it when appearing at the end of each corridor is unsettling. The over-the-shoulder affair with impressive facial animations and unique color effects makes the game juicier than ever.

Key Features
  • Classic costumes
  • Modernized controls
  • Tense exploration
Pros
  • Best-in-class visuals
  • New secondary weapons
  • Adds interesting fresh twists
Cons
  • Item management can be tedious
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Resident Evil 2
Premium pick

2. Resident Evil 3

9.65 / 10
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Resident Evil 3 is yet another epic remaster from Capcom. Despite the modernized gameplay and graphics, the game contains elements made by the original classic. Resident Evil 3 retains the horrifying enemies, nightmarish environments, and an overall emphasis on actions that deliver heart-pounding moments.

The game is a graphical powerhouse that brings even the most neglected of locations to life. There are several stand-out features in the game, from the frequently brilliant design to the horrendous zombies. The ultra-realistic flames will have you dabbing yourself down to put them off.

The game is well endowed with a selection of streets, and one favorite area is the clocktower. Its spine-chilling gothic architecture is top-notch with fun puzzles to figure out before the beautiful change of pace. Unlike its predecessor, Resident Evil 3 is much more action-oriented than complex puzzle-solving.

The level of detail is incredible, and nighttime never looked so good. Identical objects have a way of freaking you out, and this makes you more aware than before. Subtle sounds have a way of instilling an ever-present fear and tension. From the creaking gate, wind blowing papers, and a crunch of glass underfoot makes it a less or more approach. The dashes of the scratchy violin will have you wishing for a chance to curl up in a storage crate.

Key Features
  • Immortal deadly threats
  • Requires intense strategic moves
  • Up close and personal
Specifications
  • Publisher: Ubisoft
  • Genre: Action
  • Mode: Single player
  • Platform: PC and PlayStation 4
  • Rating: Mature
Pros
  • Excellent character models
  • A satisfying mix of action and horror
  • Expertly designed levels
Cons
  • Relatively short campaign
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Resident Evil 3

The Resident Evil Origins Collection is an excellent set for long-standing fans and newbies to experience the start of the Resident Evil franchise.

There are two games contained within this collection. These are the Resident Evil 0 and Resident Evil games. The story begins on the Ecliptic Express on Resident Evil 0 and then progresses to the Mansion in Resident Evil. Both games in this collection are HD remakes and feature better graphics with improved textures. The enhanced visuals are a step up from the previous versions. The camera angles on both games remain fixed.

Of the two, Resident Evil 0 is a prequel. The remake features Bill and Becky as the two main characters. The game takes place aboard a train where agent Rebecca Chambers is forced to team up with criminal Billy Coen. Interestingly, you can control both characters simultaneously using the parallel zapping system. Item management on this is somewhat complicated but gives you the option of switching items between characters.

Resident Evil, otherwise known as Resident Evil 1, is the second game on this collection that follows S.T.A.R agents Chris Redfield and partner Jill Valentine. These characters are charged with the task of destroying the plans which the evil Umbrella Corp. has devised. The game happens inside the Spencer mansion. Additionally, both characters are supposed to find the Bravo Team that has gone missing. Resident Evil 1 stays true to the survivor horror genre and features a lot of horror-esque scenery.

Key Features
  • Includes Resident Evil 0 and Resident Evil in bundle
  • HD remake of both games
  • Wesker mode available
Pros
  • Improved visuals make the game worth it
  • Controls are smooth
  • Nice sound effects
  • Engaging puzzles
Cons
  • Slow movement and gunplay takes some getting used to
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Resident Evil Origins

Capcom’s Resident Evil 4 is undoubtedly one of the top games among Resident Evil. If you’re looking to experience the best of this franchise, then this might be the chapter for you.

Although the original game was launched on GameCube, it has since migrated to other platforms. Throughout this chapter, the story, graphics, and sound help maintain a gory, horrific theme. The sound design is specifically phenomenal. Alongside the graphics, the sound immerses you into the survivor horror theme even more.

The game features a solid storyline with many intriguing plot points. Leon S. Kennedy, a special agent, is tasked to find the president’s daughter who has been kidnapped by a cult. Resident Evil 4 is a pioneer in the third-person games sector that takes an over-the-shoulder camera angle. Playing this game to completion takes a lot of thought, ammo control, and balance.

Scenes within the game are very horrific, as they should be. The graphics on Resident Evil 4 have been enhanced to HD for an improved visual experience. These upscaled graphics feature better visuals and sharper images. Aside from the upgraded resolution, the lighting throughout the scenes is noticeably brighter.

One controversial aspect associated with Resident Evil 4 is the controls. They are not the typical controls current third-person games are enabled with. You will have to learn the controls before you can get into the actual game. Fortunately, adjusting to these controls is relatively easy.

Key Features
  • Over the shoulder camera angle
  • Advanced AI for more challenging gaming
  • Available in HD
  • 60FPS
Specifications
  • Publisher: Capcom
  • Genre: Horror
  • Mode: Single Player
  • Platform: PlayStation
  • Rating: M
Pros
  • Well balanced gameplay
  • Legendary game
  • Nostalgic controls
Cons
  • The HD overhaul is ironically this game’s Achilles heal
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Resident Evil 4

Resident Evil 7 Biohazard is a complex mystery that seamlessly balances action, terror, and exploration. Unlike other games, this one knows what it wants to do, scare you!

Probably, the Resident Evil 7 Biohazard may seem more accessible than what you've experienced in the previous games, but it doesn't take away the sense of urgency and tension. The deranged sequence of hide and seek with various zombies and members of the Baker family creates dreadful events. The pressure is so constant, and each encounter tends to remind you this is a life or death affair.

Being VR compatible invites a photorealistic experience for an unimaginable level of immersion. The environments and lightning in the VR scrub up nicely, while the 3D sounds are enough to make your skin crawl. The disgusting growls, grotesque scenarios, and creepy slithering sounds offer disturbing tensions enough to shake even hardcore gamers.

The new stunningly detailed visuals and first-person perspective make one of the most potent horror experiences ever created. The game enables you to play as Ethan, a young man trying to investigate the disappearance of his wife. Things turn more and more disgusting, massive, and gets uglier as you explore.

Resident Evil 7 Biohazard perfectly maintains the unforgettable part of the series through a brutal form of horror blended with a challenging and tense take on survival. Venturing through the baker's home, a vast house with cryptic puzzles, locked doors, an unsettling huge part, makes the game exhilarating.

Key Features
  • Tense atmosphere
  • First-person perspective
  • Events take place in a sinister plantation
Pros
  • Tense encounters
  • VR compatibility enhances the immersion
  • Fantastic gameplay
Cons
  • Small enemy variety
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Resident Evil 7 Biohazard

While combat is at the center of this game, Resident Evil 5 carries the survivor-horror theme present in preceding parts within the Resident Evil Franchise. The game features many technical improvements that make the Resident Evil 5 worth trying out.

Taking place in Africa, Resident Evil 5 follows the adventures of B.S.A.A agent, Chris Redfield, later joined by Kijuju Native and local B.S.A.A agent Sheva Alomar. She is an AI combat cohort that does a decent job as a partner but her skills shine through when controlled by a player.

Working as a team, the characters are supposed to retrieve a bio-weapon. The storyline is not complex but will keep you engaged enough throughout the game. Graphics on this game are stunning with very detailed scenes.

Cooperative play is central to Resident Evil 5 gameplay and forces gamers to rely on each other to survive the horrific Majini. Working with a hot-swappable inventory, characters can share inventory easily, allowing quicker response, especially in combat.

Although Resident Evil 5 is categorized under the survivor horror genre, the game is more survivor intensive. The co-op play adds a lot of tension to the gameplay. The beginning of the game throws you into survivor mode as you try to overcome crowds of Majini as they attack. Notably, this game occurs in more spacious locations compared to previous parts of the saga that featured tighter, more difficult spaces to maneuver.

Upon completing the game, users can access the Mercenaries Mode. Outside this Mercenaries mini-game, you can go back to different levels, collect badges, improve scores, and so much more.

Key Features
  • Sheva Alomar AI partner
  • Hot swappable inventory system
  • Mercenaries Mode available with 8 characters
Pros
  • Good motion control
  • Tension filled engaging cooperative play
  • Appealing graphics
  • Lots of things to do once the game is completed
Cons
  • Lots of tension
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Resident Evil 5

Are you looking for a Resident Evil game that employs action, adventure, and mystery in its plot? The Resident Evil Revelations 2 fits this description. Although this game has some aspects of horror, the scenes are less frightening, with the occasional synergy between action and adventure being the highlight of the game.

The Revelations 2 has four exciting episodes distributed across two different timelines. Each of these timelines has a unique pair of characters who work together to create the kind of mystery and suspense to keep you glued up to its finale.

Although there are different characters, it is easy to note that Barry Burton is adored by many fans, and you may be tempted to fall for the trap too. Barry appears in the second timelines and the mystery surrounding his disappearance and reappearance is something you will wait a little bit longer to understand.

Unlike most Resident Evil games, every episode of the Revelations 2 plays its cards close to the chest such that even before you complete one, you are already longing for the next. This suspense and mystery is something that this game has done extremely well, and as a hardcore gamer, you will repeat it severally without getting bored.

The other area that Revelations 2 does really well is that it is compatible with most gaming platforms. Whether it is your PS3, PS4, PC, Xbox One, or Nintendo Switch, be sure you will have a smooth gaming experience with minimal lag. This survival horror can be played individually or as a group making it a good choice when you want to bond with family and friends.

Key Features
  • Enhanced Raid mode
  • Wonderful storyline
  • Customizable weapons
  • Four episodes
Pros
  • Great game for the genre
  • Perfect for team gaming
  • Excellent graphics
  • The mystery aspect of the game is excellent
Cons
  • The background is not very appealing
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Resident Evil: Revelations 2

If you are interested in an intense mercenary’ gameplay experience on a special and simple-to-use handheld console, the Mercenaries 3D is the way to go. As the name suggests, this game is served in clear graphics and a 3D display technology which creates an immersive gaming experience.

Ideally, the Mercenaries 3D is a game where players race against time to outsmart as many enemies as possible within the shortest time. This game adopts a countdown-like format, where, by the time it reaches zero, a player should have defeated more enemies.

While other Resident Evil games have been centered more on the field of horror, the Mercenaries 3D add an extra challenge, although it is still restricted for mature players. With the players being required to work within a set time frame, it sharpens their time management skills.

Although there have been concerns about the effectiveness of controls, time has proven to be of great essence and playing this game becomes easy as players get used to it. This game has also added an extra feature in the form of a new skill slot. From a selection of 30 skills, players are given a chance to fill at least three slots that help in the rest of the gaming.

The Mercenaries 3D is served exactly how you want it. Whether you are a single player or you want to game as a team, this improved game allows you to have some valuable time as you try to survive the horror within a limited time frame.

Key Features
  • New skill slot feature
  • Full 3D gaming
  • Customizable
  • Timed gaming
Pros
  • Great way to unwind
  • Excellent graphics
  • Sharp looking visuals for excellent gaming
  • Improves time management skills among players
Cons
  • Only compatible with the Nintendo 3DS platform
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Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D

As other Resident Evil video games are struggling to incorporate modern features in their overall plot and gameplay, Resident Evil Zero has chosen to be conservative but in a good way. First, this video is functional on almost all video gaming platforms. Whether it is your Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PS3, PS4, Windows, GameCube, or Xbox 360, this game is compatible with all.

Regardless of the platform you choose, the Resident Evil Zero will still be displayed in the stunningly amazing HD, a characteristic of the old-school pre-rendered backgrounds associated with Resident Evil games. This video game has some spooky sites such as reflections on hallway mirrors and rolling bottles, which create a lasting impression about it.

A closer look at this game makes you realize that there are extras in the areas of display and aspect ratio. Depending on the scene, the camera may be brought closer or pushed further away to spice up the game. Unlike the traditional gameplay, moving between two characters has been simplified, making it easier to navigate, survive, and earn your points.

Thanks to its improved lighting and state-of-the-art textures, this video game brings out the best character models there could ever be with the improved resolution, which translates to a better gaming experience.

The Resident Evil Zero comes with multiple challenges, which are food for the brain. Since it is a single-player game, it is upon you to compete against the system-controlled zombies, which will need the utmost concentration and fast action to survive the horrific scenes virtually.

Key Features
  • HD display
  • Spooky sites
  • Evocative atmosphere
  • Excellent sound
Pros
  • Easy to navigate
  • Wide compatibility
  • Engages the mind
  • Feels like a modern game
Cons
  • Weak storyline
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Resident Evil Zero

The number of games available within the series is simultaneously one of the best and worst things about the resident evil franchise. The series becomes quite puzzling for outsiders trying to find a footing within the saga. Beginners who have no prior experience with the storyline find it incredibly confusing to start this horror series.

Getting Started With The Resident Evil Series

Outside issues with the plot, among the most frequently asked questions relating to the Resident Evil saga is how to get started. Considering the saga has been going on for decades, and features additional remakes of some of the older games, it would be ridiculous even for a super fan to complete all these games.

Avoiding some of the games is not the worst idea in the world. Some of the chapters within the series are a hit while others are a miss. However, there are other parts of the series that are heavily influential to the storyline. Naturally, the next question becomes how necessary it is to play these games in order.

Is It A Good Idea To Play Chronologically

For casual gamers, the order in which you play the games doesn’t matter much. After all, Capcom is continually switching up the characters, aspects of the gameplay, and even parts of the storyline. However, if you’re looking to get the full canon experience or are invested in the plot, then going chronologically might serve you well. Unfortunately, not all the games within the Resident Evil franchise live up to the greatness of this saga’s reputation.

You must understand that the series comprises a combination of modern and classic pieces. These vary significantly in the quality of graphics, control designs, and gameplay. The visuals and differences in control are quite diverse. The more classic pieces haven’t particularly aged well, with some of the graphics being okay at best. If you are invested in gaining the full resident evil experience, then going in chronological order might be the best move. Otherwise, you might have a harder time revisiting older games if you play the series out of order. Newer generation gamers will have a more challenging time going back to the more classic pieces due to the questionable quality.

The decision to play this game in chronological order ultimately depends on the kind of gaming experience you are seeking from the Resident Evil series. Playing in or out of chronological order has its own perks and suits different gamers. You simply need to figure out what kind of gaming angle you want to take with this saga. Now that you've reached the end of this guide, you can revisit our list of the best Resident Evil games and make a final choice.

FAQ

Q: When was the first Resident Evil game released?

The Resident Evil franchise made its debut in 1996. The first game in the series is simply titled Resident Evil. It was developed by renowned Japanese gaming studio Capcom. Resident Evil is widely regarded as the game that popularized the survival horror genre. Its success stems from the game’s ability to tie in multiple in-game elements such as puzzle-solving, shooting, exploration, and tense action. The first Resident Evil game was released exclusively for the PlayStation. The game has since been ported to the Nintendo DS and PC. Resident Evil introduced gamers to Raccoon City and hordes of zombies. The game set the precedent for what the best Resident Evil games should look, feel, and play like. 

Q: Are all the Resident Evil games good?

The Resident Evil franchise can be difficult to navigate. The main series consists of nine games as of now. However, there have been various remakes and spin-offs released along the way. With a total of 13 spin-offs, there’s no denying that not every game in the franchise is a hit. Naturally, with so many titles, some are going to miss the mark. Luckily for the franchise, when the best Resident Evil games succeed they do so in a thrilling manner. Resident Evil 4 for GameCube and PlayStation 2 is widely regarded as the franchise’s greatest accomplishment. The game is flawless both in the execution of ideas and gameplay. Resident Evil 4 is not the only game to achieve critical acclaim. However, if you haven’t played some of the best Resident Evil games, Resident Evil 4 is a great place to start. 

Q: Which console supports Resident Evil games?

Luckily for gamers, a wide variety of consoles have supported Resident Evil games over the years. During the last 20 years, three companies have dominated the gaming console market. The four companies consist of Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft. Resident Evil games have been available on consoles created by these three companies throughout the franchise’s history. It is extremely rare for a video game to be available across all three consoles. Resident Evil’s origins date back to the PlayStation. However, the franchise has quickly developed a reputation of being accessible to everyone over the years. PC gamers can also find the best Resident Evil games readily available. 

Q: Are Resident Evil games difficult?

It is important to note that, depending on which Resident Evil game you’re playing, the level of difficulty can fluctuate. Due to the elapsed time between the nine mainline Resident Evil games, they do not share the same difficulty. This is due to the introduction of new mechanics along the way. The fact that these games have been released in different eras of gaming directly impacts the difficulty of the games. In general the best Resident Evil games are considered quite difficult. However, the average gamer shouldn’t struggle too much. In addition, players are free to choose from three difficulty levels. These levels have appeared in different formats and names however their essence mirrors the classic Easy, Normal, Hard difficulty options. 

Q: Are Resident Evil games scary?

As a horror game, Resident Evil is meant to be frightening. Whether or not the player succumbs to the fear will come down to their tolerance of horror aspects. Most of the games are meant for a mature audience. Therefore scenes can get quite gory. The franchise has implemented both first-person and third-person perspectives. Fans of the game have declared the iterations to utilize a first-person view as the scariest in the franchise. The most frightening aspect of a Resident Evil game is the jump scare effect. You never know what can be waiting around the next corner. When playing the game from a first-person perspective this effect is heightened. Resident Evil 7 is notorious for being one of the scariest games in the franchise to date. If you’re looking for maximum fright potential, Resident Evil 7 is available in virtual reality. 

Q: Are Resident Evil movies based on the games?

Resident Evil movies are not based on in-game events. The plot and storyline of the movies differ from what is witnessed in the Resident Evil games. Although some game characters have been known to appear in the movies from time to time.