Can I Skip Some Resident Evil Games? A Survival Horror Guide
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The Resident Evil franchise is a behemoth, spanning decades, multiple consoles, and countless terrifying encounters with the undead. For newcomers (and even returning veterans), the sheer volume of titles can be daunting. So, the burning question is: can you skip some games and still enjoy the experience? The short answer is a resounding yes! While each game contributes to the overall lore, the series is structured in a way that allows for a significant degree of flexibility. You can absolutely jump in at various points without being completely lost, though understanding certain key characters and events will enrich the experience. The beauty of Resident Evil lies in its accessible, yet interconnected storytelling.
Understanding Resident Evil’s Narrative Structure
The Resident Evil narrative can be thought of as a web of interconnected stories, rather than a strict linear progression. While there’s an overarching timeline, each game tends to focus on a specific location, outbreak, and set of characters. This means that while there are recurring villains like Albert Wesker and organizations like Umbrella Corporation, their impact is revealed gradually across multiple games. Knowing the key players definitely adds depth, but isn’t always essential for enjoying a particular entry.
Entry Points: Where to Begin
So, if you don’t need to play every game, where should you start? Here are a few recommendations:
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Resident Evil 7: Biohazard: A soft reboot of sorts, RE7 introduces a new protagonist (Ethan Winters) and a shift to first-person perspective. It’s largely self-contained, making it a great entry point.
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Resident Evil 2 Remake: A fantastic reimagining of a classic, the RE2 Remake offers a thrilling experience with two compelling protagonists (Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield) and introduces key elements of the Raccoon City incident.
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Resident Evil 4 Remake: An updated version of a beloved title, RE4 is known for its intense action and engaging story. It’s relatively self-contained, though prior knowledge of Leon Kennedy’s past enhances the experience.
Games You Might Consider Skipping (At Least Initially)
While every Resident Evil game has its merits, some are less crucial for understanding the overall narrative or have aged less gracefully:
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Resident Evil 0: A prequel to the first game, RE0 introduces Rebecca Chambers and Billy Coen. While it fleshes out the backstory of Umbrella, its gameplay can be cumbersome, and the story, while interesting, isn’t essential for understanding the main plot.
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Resident Evil 6: A divisive entry in the series, RE6 features multiple playable characters and intertwined storylines. While it expands the lore, its focus on action over horror and complex plot can be overwhelming.
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Resident Evil: Code Veronica: While a canonical entry and important for certain character arcs (especially Claire Redfield’s), Code Veronica hasn’t received a proper remake yet, and its dated gameplay can be a barrier for newcomers.
FAQs: Your Resident Evil Questions Answered
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify which Resident Evil games you can skip and still enjoy the series:
1. Do I need to play all Resident Evil games in order?
No, you don’t need to play them in order. The games are interconnected, but each typically tells a self-contained story. Jumping around is perfectly fine, though knowing the general lore will enhance your enjoyment.
2. Are all Resident Evil games connected?
Yes, they are all interconnected in some way, even if the connections are subtle. They share a timeline and recurring elements, like Umbrella Corporation and the T-Virus.
3. Do I need to play all Resident Evil games before RE4 Remake?
No, you don’t. RE4 Remake is relatively self-contained. Knowing Leon’s history in RE2 adds context, but it’s not essential.
4. Do I need to play Resident Evil 5 before 6?
Technically no, but it’s recommended. RE6 builds on the events and character relationships established in RE5. Skipping RE5 might leave you confused about certain plot points.
5. Is it important to play Resident Evil games in chronological order?
Not necessarily. Playing in release order can provide a better sense of the series’ evolution, but it’s not crucial for understanding the story.
6. Should I play Resident Evil before 7?
Not necessarily. RE7 is designed as a soft reboot and a fresh entry point for new players. It doesn’t heavily rely on prior knowledge.
7. Is it okay to play RE4 first?
Yes! RE4 is a great starting point. Just be aware that Leon and Ada have a history, but the game explains enough for you to follow along.
8. Do I need to play all Resident Evil games before RE8 (Village)?
Playing RE7 is highly recommended before playing Village, as Village continues the story of Ethan Winters from RE7. However, the game provides a recap cinematic if you haven’t played RE7.
9. Do I need to play Resident Evil 1 before 0?
Yes, play RE1 before RE0. RE0 is a prequel that assumes you have knowledge of the events and characters from RE1.
10. What Resident Evil game should I start with?
Resident Evil 2 Remake, Resident Evil 4 Remake, or Resident Evil 7 are all excellent starting points. They offer modern gameplay and engaging stories that are relatively self-contained.
11. Does Resident Evil 7 have anything to do with the other games?
Yes, it takes place in the same universe and has ties to the overall series, particularly regarding Umbrella’s legacy. However, it’s largely standalone.
12. Do I need to play other Resident Evil games before RE4 Remake?
No. It’s a self-contained story. Enjoy the ride!
13. What Resident Evil games are most important to the overarching story?
RE1, RE2, Code Veronica, RE4, RE5, RE6, and RE7 are generally considered the most important for understanding the overarching narrative and character arcs.
14. Can I play RE Village without playing RE7?
Yes, but it is heavily recommended to play RE7 beforehand. Village directly continues the story and themes introduced in RE7.
15. Are the Resident Evil movies canon to the games?
No. The Resident Evil movies are a separate adaptation and do not follow the games’ storyline directly. They feature some characters from the games but create their own narrative.
Embracing the Franchise: Choose Your Own Adventure
Ultimately, the Resident Evil franchise is about choice. You can delve deep into the lore and play every game in chronological order, or you can pick and choose the titles that appeal to you most. There is no right or wrong way to experience Resident Evil. So grab a controller, load up a game, and prepare to face your fears!
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