Which Resident Evil is Multiplayer?
The Resident Evil series has been a cornerstone of survival horror gaming for over two decades, with a focus on solo storytelling and intense action. However, as the gaming landscape has evolved, the franchise has also explored the world of multiplayer gaming. But which Resident Evil games feature multiplayer?
Direct Answer:
Not all Resident Evil games have a multiplayer component. However, some titles have introduced co-op or competitive multiplayer modes, starting with Resident Evil: Outbreak in 2003.
Resident Evil: Outbreak (2003)
Resident Evil: Outbreak was the first Resident Evil game to feature multiplayer. The game was released for the PlayStation 2 and allowed players to engage in online co-op gameplay with up to 2-4 players. Players controlled characters from the Resident Evil series, including Jill Valentine, Chris Redfield, and others, as they navigated the streets of Raccoon City.
- Gameplay: The multiplayer mode in Outbreak was primarily designed for co-op play, where players worked together to complete objectives, fend off hordes of zombies, and complete mini-games.
- Modes: The game featured various multiplayer modes, including:
- Co-op: Players controlled characters and worked together to complete objectives.
- Survival: Players competed against each other to survive the longest against hordes of zombies.
- Mini-games: Players engaged in mini-games, such as poker and darts, to earn in-game currency.
Resident Evil: Outbreak: File #2 (2004)
Resident Evil: Outbreak: File #2 was an expansion pack for Outbreak and also featured multiplayer capabilities. The expansion added new characters, storylines, and multiplayer modes.
- New Modes: The expansion introduced new multiplayer modes, including Time Attack, where players competed to complete levels as quickly as possible.
- Characters: File #2 added new characters to the roster, including Lorne Balfe, a scientist who specializes in chemical weapons.
Resident Evil: Revelations 2 (2015)
Resident Evil: Revelations 2 was a sequel to the critically acclaimed Revelations, and it marked a return to the series’ survival horror roots. The game featured a unique co-op storyline, where players controlled Claire Redfield and Moira Burton (a new character) as they navigated through a series of episodes.
- Episode-based Storyline: Revelations 2 was released in episodic format, with each episode featuring a standalone story and co-op gameplay.
- Multiplayer: The game featured online co-op play, allowing players to work together to complete objectives and survive against hordes of enemies.
Resident Evil 6 (2012)
Resident Evil 6 was a major departure from the series’ survival horror roots, introducing more action-oriented gameplay and a focus on co-op play. While the game did not feature a dedicated multiplayer mode, it did include co-op elements in its campaign.
- Co-op Campaign: The game’s campaign was designed for co-op play, with two players controlling characters Chris Redfield and Sheva Alomar as they fought against hordes of enemies.
- Online Co-op: Players could play the campaign online with friends, using a matchmaking system to connect with other players.
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017) & Village (2021)
Resident Evil 7 and Village are more recent installments in the series, focusing on a return to the survival horror genre. While they do not feature traditional multiplayer modes, they do offer network features that allow players to play together online.
- Online Multiplayer: Both Resident Evil 7 and Village feature network features that allow players to share data and earn rewards online.
- Gaming Community: The games include features that allow players to join forces with friends and other players, creating a sense of community.
Table: Resident Evil Games with Multiplayer
| Game Title | Release Year | Multiplayer Features |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Evil: Outbreak | 2003 | Online co-op play, various modes |
| Resident Evil: Outbreak: File #2 | 2004 | Online co-op play, new modes |
| Resident Evil: Revelations 2 | 2015 | Online co-op play, episode-based storyline |
| Resident Evil 6 | 2012 | Co-op campaign, online co-op play |
Conclusion:
While the Resident Evil series has explored multiplayer in some titles, it has always remained true to its survival horror roots. From co-op play in Outbreak to episode-based storytelling in Revelations 2, the franchise has adapted to changes in the gaming landscape while staying committed to its core values.