Are you a fan of survival horror games? If so, you’ve probably heard of the Resident Evil series. But do you know the main storylines, the different types of games, and the order in which they were released?
In this article, we will explore the world of Resident Evil games, from the original release in 1996 to the most recent installment in 2021. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your survival gear and let’s dive in!
What Is The Resident Evil Game Series?
The Resident Evil game series, developed and published by Capcom, is a renowned franchise known for its gripping storylines, immersive gameplay, and modern console experiences.
Originating in 1996 as a survival horror game for the PlayStation, Resident Evil drew inspiration from classic horror movies, creating a spine-tingling experience for players.
The series has since expanded to include various gameplay styles, from action-packed sequences to strategic puzzles, providing a dynamic gaming experience. It has seamlessly adapted to modern gaming platforms, enhancing the visuals and gameplay mechanics, and maintaining its position as a fan-favorite in the horror and survival genre.
What Are The Main Storylines In The Resident Evil Games?
The main storylines in the Resident Evil games unfold across a diverse chronology, intertwining the fates of iconic characters, pivotal events, and the harrowing revelations that shape the franchise’s immersive narrative.
The series’ inception traces back to the mysterious outbreak in the Arklay Mountains, where the T-virus unleashed a wave of horror, setting the stage for the relentless battle against the Umbrella Corporation’s insidious schemes.
As the saga progresses, players witness the evolution of complex figures such as Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine, whose unwavering resolve becomes pivotal in confronting the unimaginable terrors birthed by relentless experimentation.
The narratives also delve into the enigmatic origins of biological weaponry, unveiling the enmeshed tapestry of ambition, tragedy, and resilience that defines the Resident Evil lore.
The Umbrella Corporation
The Umbrella Corporation serves as a central element in the Resident Evil series, deeply entwined with clandestine experiments, bio-organic weapons, and the enigmatic figure of Albert Wesker.
In the perilous world of Resident Evil, one formidable presence looms large: the Umbrella Corporation. This shadowy conglomerate shapes the narrative with its insidious machinations, relentlessly pursuing bio-organic weaponry. This pursuit culminates in a series of viral outbreaks, unleashing chaos and terror across various storylines.
At the center of it all is Albert Wesker, with his enigmatic charm and ominous agendas. He epitomizes the corporation’s enigmatic allure, orchestrating events with calculated precision. Through its relentless quest for power and dominance, the Umbrella Corporation remains an ever-present antagonist, driving the franchise’s compelling narrative.
The T-Virus Outbreak
The T-Virus outbreak represents a seminal event in the Resident Evil narrative, ushering players into a world of survival horror and intense action as they confront the dire consequences of viral contagion.
As the T-Virus spreads its tendrils of destruction throughout the game world, it plunges players into a relentless battle for survival against hordes of grotesque mutants and cunning bio-organic weapons.
The atmosphere becomes rife with palpable tension, evoking a sense of dread as every corner holds the potential for a heart-pounding encounter with the infected or mutated creatures. The action-packed sequences are seamlessly intertwined with nerve-wracking exploration, fostering a sense of vulnerability and uncertainty as players navigate through perilous environments.
Strategizing their every move, players must evade threats and scavenge for essential resources amidst the chaos.
The Raccoon City Incident
The Raccoon City incident plunges players into a harrowing cooperative gameplay experience, as they navigate the treacherous streets and locales alongside iconic protagonists, forging alliances and confronting relentless adversaries.
As the players venture through this dystopian landscape, they are immersed in the multiplayer experience that emphasizes teamwork and coordination. Each protagonist brings their unique skills and abilities to the table, allowing for diverse strategies and playstyles.
The intertwined narratives and interconnected objectives enhance the sense of camaraderie among the characters and players, fostering an engaging and challenging gameplay dynamic.
The cooperative gameplay not only adds depth to the story, but also emphasizes the importance of working together to survive the outbreak. Whether it’s providing cover fire for a teammate, reviving an injured ally, or executing synchronized attacks on adversaries, the essence of collaboration is pivotal in overcoming the daunting odds.
The Las Plagas Outbreak
The Las Plagas outbreak introduces players to a spine-chilling spin-off narrative, blending elements of survival horror with intense action as they confront the nightmarish manifestations of the Las Plagas parasite.
As players navigate through the treacherous environments, they must grapple with the relentless tension of survival while engaging in heart-pounding combat scenarios against grotesque foes.
The dynamic gameplay mechanics, rife with resource management and strategic decision-making, immerse players in a harrowing struggle for survival.
The encounters with the infected beings, heightened by the twisted mutations caused by the parasitic infestation, offer a harrowing glimpse into the dark underbelly of the outbreak. From claustrophobic encounters in narrow corridors to frenetic open battles in dilapidated urban settings, each confrontation resonates with a palpable sense of dread.
What Are The Different Types Of Resident Evil Games?
The Resident Evil franchise encompasses a wide array of game types, including mainline series entries, engaging spin-offs, and immersive remakes that redefine the gameplay experience, with some titles featuring VR ports for enhanced immersion.
One of the most iconic and influential mainline series entries is undoubtedly Resident Evil 4. This game introduced a revolutionary over-the-shoulder perspective and set a new standard for action-packed survival horror gameplay.
Spin-off titles like Resident Evil: Revelations and Resident Evil Outbreak offer unique storylines and gameplay mechanics that diversify the overall Resident Evil experience.
Remakes such as Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3 have redefined classic titles. These games leverage modern technology to deliver stunning visuals and enhanced gameplay while staying true to the original narratives.
Main Series Games
The main series games of Resident Evil offer players a compelling and immersive experience, each release contributing to the overarching narrative in a meticulously crafted order that enhances the gameplay and storytelling elements.
Beginning with the iconic Resident Evil in 1996, players were introduced to the haunting and atmospheric Survival Horror genre, setting the stage for the series’ signature blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat. The subsequent releases, such as Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3: Nemesis, continued to refine this formula, offering evolving challenges and expanding the lore of the T-Virus and its catastrophic repercussions.
As the franchise progressed, Resident Evil 4 revolutionized the gameplay, shifting towards a more action-oriented approach while sustaining the spine-chilling tension that characterizes the series. The gripping narrative of each installment delves deeper into the enigmatic origins of Umbrella Corporation and the complex web of conspiracies, keeping players engrossed and eager to uncover the next revelation.
The sequential structure of the main series ensures that every release furthers the overarching storyline, creating a cohesive and captivating experience for fans and newcomers alike.
Spin-off Games
The spin-off games in the Resident Evil series present players with captivating narratives, diverse gameplay mechanics, and the opportunity to delve into the untold stories of iconic characters and pivotal events within the franchise.
One of the most beloved spin-off games, Resident Evil: Revelations, introduced a compelling episodic structure that added suspense and depth to the storytelling, while Resident Evil: Outbreak focused on cooperative gameplay, enabling players to strategize and survive the undead onslaught together.
Additionally, Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles and The Umbrella Chronicles masterfully blended rail shooter elements with immersive storytelling, revitalizing classic moments from the main series and offering a fresh perspective on the overarching narrative.
These spin-offs play a pivotal role in expanding the lore of the Resident Evil universe, enriching the gaming experience for fans and newcomers alike through their unique exploration of the franchise’s rich history and iconic characters.
Remakes and Remasters
The remakes and remasters of Resident Evil games breathe new life into classic titles, offering improved graphics, revamped gameplay mechanics, and the opportunity to embark on nostalgic journeys while pursuing new challenges such as unlocking weapons and trophies.
These enhancements have resonated with both longtime fans of the franchise and newcomers, revitalizing interest in the iconic series.
The level of detail in the graphical updates transforms familiar environments into hauntingly immersive settings, heightening the tension and suspense for players as they navigate through the nightmarish landscapes.
The refined gameplay mechanics introduce modern conveniences while staying true to the original essence of the games, striking a balance that captivates players of various generations.
The addition of new content, including weapons and trophies, provides fresh objectives for seasoned players to pursue, enriching their gameplay experiences with rewarding milestones.
What Are The Resident Evil Games In Order?
The Resident Evil games, when played in their chronological order, offer players the opportunity to immerse themselves in the unfolding narrative, from the early iconic releases to the latest installment, Resident Evil Village.
The series’ first game, Resident Evil, introduced players to the haunting and eerily atmospheric setting of the Spencer Mansion, while establishing the survival horror genre as a leading force in gaming. This revolutionary title set the stage for sequels that expanded upon the original, enhancing gameplay and further diving into the dark, mysterious world of the Resident Evil universe.
Following the success of the inaugural game, Resident Evil 2 plunged players into the zombie-infested streets of Raccoon City, offering a thrilling perspective shift with intertwined storylines. Subsequent releases like Resident Evil 3: Nemesis and Resident Evil Code: Veronica continued to captivate audiences with their intense gameplay and evolving narratives.
The series then entered a new era with Resident Evil 4, recognized for its revolutionary third-person shooter mechanics and intense action. Resident Evil 5 and Resident Evil 6 further built upon these gameplay mechanics, introducing cooperative play and expanding the scope of the series.
Continuing its evolution, the franchise brought back its survival horror roots with Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, offering a fresh and terrifying perspective in the form of a first-person experience. The highly acclaimed Resident Evil Village then took players on a journey through a gothic European village teeming with grotesque creatures and a gripping story, serving as the latest installment in the ever-evolving Resident Evil series.
Resident Evil (1996)
Resident Evil, the inaugural title released in 1996, captivated players with its revolutionary gameplay, introducing iconic characters and laying the foundation for the enthralling story order that would unfold across subsequent installments.
With its survival horror genre, Resident Evil deftly blended tension, exploration, and puzzle-solving, delivering an immersive experience unlike any other at the time. Players immersed themselves in the eerie atmosphere of the Spencer Mansion, solving intricate puzzles while fending off hordes of terrifying creatures.
The game’s dynamic storytelling introduced players to Chris Redfield, Jill Valentine, and other memorable characters, each with their own unique traits and motivations, setting the stage for the captivating narrative that would continue to unfold throughout the series.
Resident Evil 2 (1998)
Resident Evil 2, released in 1998, propelled players into a treacherous journey as they encountered new characters, pivotal plot developments, and harrowing events that solidified its status as a beloved classic within the franchise.
In the game, players assume the roles of either Leon S. Kennedy or Claire Redfield, navigating the labyrinthine corridors of the Raccoon City Police Department and unraveling the sinister machinations of the Umbrella Corporation.
The narrative intricacies blend seamlessly with the survival horror elements, creating an immersive experience that keeps players on edge throughout their journey. The impact of pivotal events, such as encounters with the relentless Tyrant or the tragic fate of the Birkin family, leaves an indelible mark on players, shaping their perception of survival horror games for years to come.
Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (1999)
Resident Evil 3: Nemesis, launched in 1999, challenged players to survive relentless horrors while introducing gripping characters and amplifying the franchise’s signature blend of survival horror and high-octane action.
The game centers around Jill Valentine, a member of the elite STARS (Special Tactics and Rescue Service) team. She must battle not only brain-eating zombies and mutated monstrosities, but also the relentless and unstoppable Nemesis.
The game’s setting in the desolate streets of Raccoon City during a catastrophic viral outbreak amplifies the harrowing struggle for survival. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis seamlessly blends horror and action, keeping players on the edge of their seats as they uncover the dark secrets of the infested city and fight for their lives.
Resident Evil Code: Veronica (2000)
Resident Evil Code: Veronica, unveiled in 2000, propelled players into a gripping narrative, featuring compelling protagonists and a web of bio-organic weapons, unveiling an enthralling chapter in the Resident Evil storyline.
The game centered around Claire Redfield, who sought to rescue her sibling, Chris Redfield, from the nefarious Umbrella Corporation’s Antarctic base. As she delved deeper into the chilling environment, a sense of dread pervaded, emanating from the lurking bio-organic terrors that awaited her at every turn.
The haunting atmosphere and intricate plot twists underlined the game’s capacity to evoke unease and anticipation, making it a hallmark of survival horror gaming.
Resident Evil Zero (2002)
Resident Evil Zero, released in 2002, enriched the franchise’s narrative tapestry, offering players a compelling entry that expanded the overarching story order and garnered acclaim for its innovative gameplay mechanics and captivating narrative.
It served as a prequel to the original Resident Evil game, shedding light on the events preceding the iconic mansion incident.
The dual protagonist system introduced in Resident Evil Zero provided a fresh perspective, allowing players to switch between Rebecca Chambers and Billy Coen, each with unique abilities and inventory constraints. This dynamic gameplay dynamic added depth to the strategic elements, requiring players to make tactical decisions and manage resources carefully.
The game’s atmospheric environments and challenging puzzles further immersed players in the gripping storyline, solidifying its significance within the franchise’s lore.
Resident Evil 4 (2005)
Resident Evil 4, introduced in 2005, redefined the gameplay experience and introduced players to a modern console iteration that showcased a compelling narrative and an innovative approach to character dynamics within the Resident Evil universe.
Leon S. Kennedy, the main protagonist of Resident Evil 4, brought a new level of depth and complexity to the series. He navigated through the eerie, atmospheric environments with a fluid, over-the-shoulder perspective that revolutionized the third-person shooter genre.
The game’s introduction of the merchant added a unique dynamic. It offered players a chance to trade and upgrade their arsenal, enhancing the strategic element of the gameplay.
The transition to modern consoles allowed for enhanced graphics, further immersing players in the intense, nerve-wracking encounters with grotesque enemies and memorable boss battles. This groundbreaking shift set a new precedent for the series, influencing the design and mechanics of subsequent installments.
Resident Evil 5 (2009)
Resident Evil 5, launched in 2009, elevated the cooperative gameplay experience as players stepped into the shoes of Chris Redfield, embarking on a relentless pursuit of survival through intense multiplayer encounters and harrowing cooperative challenges.
The game received acclaim for its seamless integration of cooperative gameplay, allowing players to strategize and tackle the horrors of the game together.
Chris Redfield’s character became an embodiment of collaboration and solidarity, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in navigating the treacherous game world.
The multiplayer experiences were enriched by the game’s dynamic environments, encouraging cooperative problem-solving and resource management for a truly immersive experience.
Resident Evil 6 (2012)
Resident Evil 6, unveiled in 2012, propelled players into a web of revelations and high-octane action, showcasing a diverse roster of protagonists as they unraveled the intricate narrative tapestry woven within the game.
The game unfolds across multiple interconnected storylines, each led by a protagonist grappling with their own harrowing challenges amidst the chaos unleashed by the sinister C-virus.
Whether players assume the role of Leon S. Kennedy, Chris Redfield, or Jake Muller, they are thrust into heart-pounding confrontations against hordes of mutated adversaries, all woven seamlessly into the larger tapestry of conspiracy and horror.
These action sequences are underscored by fluid combat mechanics and stunning visuals that immerse players in the desperation and ferocity of the battles.
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017)
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, released in 2017, marked a transformative leap for the franchise, immersing players in the enigmatic world of Ethan Winters, the harrowing biohazardous threats, and the haunting environs of Louisiana.
The game introduces players to a fresh protagonist, Ethan Winters, as he embarks on a perilous quest to find his missing wife in an eerie plantation mansion engulfed in sinister mysteries.
Biohazardous perils lurk around every corner, heightening the nail-biting suspense that permeates the hauntingly atmospheric portrayal of the swampy, dilapidated Louisiana setting.
Resident Evil 2 (2019 Remake)
The 2019 remake of Resident Evil 2 revitalized the classic with reimagined visuals, enhanced weaponry, and a renewed narrative, offering players an immersive experience that garnered acclaim for its modern revisions and captivating storytelling.
The revitalized Resident Evil 2 brought about a heightened sense of terror with its meticulously redesigned weaponry and visually stunning overhauls. From the iconic Leon Kennedy to the tenacious Claire Redfield, the characters were given a new lease of life with remarkable attention to detail and enhanced realism.
The narrative reinterpretation did not just serve as a nod to the original game but also added depth and layers to the storyline, diving into the characters’ motivations and interactions. This resonated with both longtime fans and newcomers.
The 2019 remake breathed new life into this beloved survival horror game. It proved to be a successful marriage of nostalgic elements and modern gaming advancements, cementing its status as a monumental achievement in the realm of video game remakes.
Resident Evil 3 (2020 Remake)
The 2020 remake of Resident Evil 3 redefined the narrative and characters, plunging players into a reimagined story that maintained the essence of the original while delivering fresh perspectives and a visually stunning portrayal of the harrowing events within the game.
Players were immediately captivated by the intricate details of Raccoon City, a setting brought to life with remarkable visual enhancements.
The characters, notably Jill Valentine and the relentless Nemesis, were given newfound depth, breathing an unprecedented vitality into their roles. The revamped storyline skillfully intertwined familiar elements with surprising twists, amplifying the tension and emotional investment for both veterans and newcomers to the franchise.
Critics lauded the remake for its seamless blend of faithful homage and innovative changes, cementing its status as a standout in the Resident Evil series.
Resident Evil Village (2021)
Resident Evil Village, the latest installment in the franchise, beckons players into a realm of unparalleled horror, survival challenges, and adrenaline-pumping action as they navigate the enigmatic allure of the titular village and its menacing inhabitants.
Within the game, players are enveloped in a haunting atmosphere, where every creaking floorboard and distant howl instill a sense of impending dread.
The dynamic survival elements force strategic decision-making as resources dwindle, increasing the pulse-pounding tension experienced throughout the game. The unpredictability of encounters with grotesque adversaries enhances the thrill, making every step a treacherous journey through the unknown.
With immersive visuals and spine-chilling sound design, the gameplay engulfs players in an enthralling, spine-tingling experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct order to play the Resident Evil games?
The correct order to play the Resident Evil games is: Resident Evil 0, Resident Evil, Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 3: Nemesis, Resident Evil Code: Veronica, Resident Evil 4, Resident Evil Revelations, Resident Evil 5, Resident Evil Revelations 2, Resident Evil 6, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard.
Are all the Resident Evil games connected?
Yes, all the Resident Evil games are connected and take place in the same universe. However, some games may have different timelines or alternate storylines.
What is the chronological order of the Resident Evil games?
The chronological order of the Resident Evil games is: Resident Evil 0, Resident Evil, Resident Evil 3: Nemesis, Resident Evil Code: Veronica, Resident Evil 4, Resident Evil Revelations, Resident Evil 5, Resident Evil Revelations 2, Resident Evil 6, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, Resident Evil 2.
Do I need to play all the Resident Evil games in order to understand the story?
No, each Resident Evil game can be played as a standalone and still be enjoyed. However, playing them in order will provide a better understanding of the overall plot and characters.
Which Resident Evil game is considered the best?
This is subjective and varies from person to person. However, many fans consider Resident Evil 4 to be the best in the series due to its revolutionary gameplay and intense atmosphere.
Are there any spin-off games in the Resident Evil series?
Yes, there are several spin-off games in the Resident Evil series, such as Resident Evil Outbreak, Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles, and Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City. These games may not be directly connected to the main storyline but still take place in the same universe.
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