Does RE0 Take Place Before RE1? Unraveling the Resident Evil Timeline
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, Resident Evil 0 (RE0) definitively takes place before Resident Evil 1 (RE1). RE0 serves as a prequel, chronologically positioning itself as the entry point to the overarching narrative of the Resident Evil universe. It details the events leading directly into the infamous Spencer Mansion incident that kicks off RE1.
Exploring the Chronological Order: RE0 as the Beginning
To understand the significance of RE0, we must first appreciate its role in establishing the lore and setting the stage for the horrors of Resident Evil. The game follows Rebecca Chambers, a rookie medic for S.T.A.R.S. Bravo Team, and Billy Coen, a former Marine facing execution, as they become entangled in a deadly conspiracy.
The Ecliptic Express Incident
RE0 begins with the Bravo Team’s helicopter malfunctioning near the Arklay Mountains. While searching for the cause of the crash, Rebecca discovers a seemingly abandoned train, the Ecliptic Express. This train is quickly revealed to be overrun by infected creatures, marking the beginning of a nightmare scenario. Throughout the game, Rebecca teams up with Billy, and they uncover the origins of the T-Virus and the sinister experiments conducted by Umbrella Corporation co-founder, Dr. James Marcus.
Dr. James Marcus and the T-Virus’s Origins
One of the key revelations of RE0 is the deeper exploration of Dr. James Marcus’s research and his pivotal role in the creation of the T-Virus. We witness his ambition, his betrayal by fellow Umbrella executives Albert Wesker and William Birkin, and his eventual resurrection as the Queen Leech. This backstory is crucial for understanding the motivations and machinations of Umbrella in subsequent games.
Connecting to the Spencer Mansion Incident
The events of RE0 directly precede the arrival of S.T.A.R.S. Alpha Team at the Spencer Mansion, as depicted in RE1. After surviving the Ecliptic Express incident and confronting the Queen Leech, Rebecca eventually makes her way to the mansion, where she plays a minor but crucial role in supporting Chris Redfield and the other S.T.A.R.S. members. The knowledge gained in RE0 helps Rebecca survive the horrors of the mansion.
Why Understanding the Timeline Matters
Grasping the chronological order of the Resident Evil games, especially the relationship between RE0 and RE1, is vital for several reasons:
- Narrative Cohesion: It provides a more complete and understandable narrative arc. Understanding the origins of the T-Virus and the actions of Umbrella enhances the impact of the later games.
- Character Development: It adds depth to the characters. Knowing Rebecca’s experience in RE0 enriches her portrayal in RE1 and later appearances.
- World-Building: It expands the world of Resident Evil. RE0 reveals critical details about Umbrella’s operations and the early stages of the bioweapon outbreak, which influence events throughout the series.
- Appreciation of Recurring Themes: Understanding the prequel allows players to better appreciate the recurring themes of corporate greed, scientific hubris, and the devastating consequences of bio-organic weapons.
Resident Evil 0: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Resident Evil 0, covering its place in the timeline, its story, and its connection to other games:
1. What is the main plot of Resident Evil 0?
The main plot revolves around Rebecca Chambers and Billy Coen uncovering the origins of the T-Virus and the experiments conducted by Dr. James Marcus aboard the Ecliptic Express and within Umbrella’s training facility.
2. How does RE0 lead into Resident Evil 1?
After surviving the events of RE0, Rebecca arrives at the Spencer Mansion, where she briefly assists Chris Redfield during the events of Resident Evil 1. The information she gains during RE0 helps her survive.
3. Who is Dr. James Marcus, and what is his significance?
Dr. James Marcus is a co-founder of Umbrella Corporation and the primary researcher behind the T-Virus. His research is crucial for understanding the origins of the viral outbreak in Raccoon City and beyond. His betrayal and resurrection as the Queen Leech are key plot points.
4. Who are the main playable characters in RE0?
The main playable characters are Rebecca Chambers and Billy Coen. Players can switch between them during gameplay, utilizing their unique abilities and strengths.
5. What is the “partner zapping” system in RE0?
The “partner zapping” system allows players to switch between Rebecca and Billy at any time. This mechanic introduces puzzle-solving elements where players need to coordinate their actions and utilize each character’s specific skills to progress.
6. Is RE0 considered canon in the Resident Evil universe?
Yes, RE0 is considered canon. Its events are acknowledged and referenced in later Resident Evil games and media.
7. Is RE0 important for understanding the overall Resident Evil story?
Yes, RE0 is highly important. It provides crucial context for the origins of the T-Virus and the motives of Umbrella Corporation, which are central to the entire series.
8. Does RE0 reveal any secrets about Umbrella Corporation?
Yes, RE0 reveals many secrets about Umbrella, including their unethical experiments, internal power struggles, and the true nature of their bioweapons research.
9. What is the Queen Leech?
The Queen Leech is the resurrected form of Dr. James Marcus after he is killed and injected with a special strain of the T-Virus by leeches. She becomes the main antagonist of RE0.
10. Is it necessary to play RE0 before playing Resident Evil 1?
While not strictly necessary, playing RE0 before RE1 will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the overarching narrative and the motivations of certain characters and organizations.
11. What are the key differences between Rebecca in RE0 and RE1?
In RE0, Rebecca is a rookie medic thrust into a terrifying situation, showcasing her initial fear and vulnerability. By the time of RE1, she has gained experience and confidence from her ordeal, making her a more capable survivor.
12. Does RE0 explain why Rebecca is familiar with the mansion in RE1?
While not explicitly detailed, the events of RE0 contribute to Rebecca’s familiarity with the types of threats present in the Spencer Mansion, allowing her to react more effectively.
13. What is the T-Virus’s origin in RE0?
The T-Virus in RE0 is revealed to be a product of Dr. James Marcus’s research, combining leech DNA with a virus to create a potent bioweapon.
14. Does Albert Wesker appear in RE0?
While Albert Wesker doesn’t have a physical presence in RE0, his involvement in Dr. Marcus’s downfall is hinted at and sets the stage for his role in later games.
15. What version of RE0 should I play?
The Resident Evil 0 HD Remaster is the best version to play. It features updated graphics, improved controls, and additional content, making it the definitive way to experience the game.
Final Thoughts
Resident Evil 0 is a critical piece of the Resident Evil puzzle. Its exploration of the T-Virus’s origins, the backstory of Dr. James Marcus, and the harrowing experiences of Rebecca Chambers provide essential context for understanding the events of Resident Evil 1 and the subsequent games. Playing RE0 enhances the overall narrative experience and offers a deeper appreciation for the intricate and terrifying world of Resident Evil. Ultimately, RE0 stands as a foundational chapter, firmly established before the iconic horrors of the Spencer Mansion unfolded.