Unraveling the Connections: Resident Evil 5 and 6 – A Deep Dive

Yes, Resident Evil 5 (RE5) and Resident Evil 6 (RE6) are definitively connected, though not in a way that demands playing one before the other to understand the plot fully. While RE6 builds upon the global bioterrorism landscape established in RE5, featuring returning characters and exploring the consequences of prior events, each game presents a largely self-contained narrative. Think of it as reading chapters in a book – you can enjoy each chapter individually, but understanding the previous ones enriches the overall experience.

The Web of Connections: Characters, Events, and Lore

The connection between RE5 and RE6 lies in several key areas:

• Returning Characters: Both games feature prominent characters like Chris Redfield, Albert Wesker (though his influence is felt more than seen in RE6), and Ada Wong. Understanding their history and relationships, as developed in earlier games, provides additional context to their actions and motivations in RE6. Specifically, the trauma and guilt Chris experiences in RE6 are directly tied to the events of RE5 and the loss of his team.

• Global Bioterrorism: RE5 expanded the scope of the Resident Evil universe, showcasing the widespread proliferation of bioweapons. RE6 continues this trend, depicting a world grappling with near-constant outbreaks and the emergence of new and more dangerous viruses, such as the C-virus. The knowledge gained from tackling the Uroboros virus in RE5 is indirectly relevant to the fight against new threats.

• Continuity of the Narrative: While RE6 has multiple intertwined storylines, the overall arc of the Resident Evil narrative benefits from playing RE5 first. You gain a better grasp of the organizations involved, the key players in the fight against bioterrorism, and the evolution of the viruses themselves. The overarching narrative thread of the franchise weaves through both games.

Does Order Matter? The Playthrough Dilemma

While the storylines are connected, the game mechanics, character progression, and overall tone differ substantially between RE5 and RE6. Many players find RE5 to be a tighter, more focused experience, while RE6 is often criticized for its sprawling narrative, action-heavy gameplay, and sometimes convoluted plot.

Therefore, while playing RE5 before RE6 isn’t strictly necessary, it’s recommended if you want to fully appreciate the nuances of the story and character development. It provides a richer context and deeper understanding of the world of Resident Evil.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Resident Evil 5 and 6

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the connections between Resident Evil 5 and 6, and the wider Resident Evil universe:

Is Resident Evil 5 canon?

Yes, Resident Evil 5 is absolutely canon. Despite some mixed reception from fans regarding its gameplay style and narrative choices, it remains a crucial part of the official Resident Evil storyline.

Does playing Resident Evil 5 spoil Resident Evil 6?

Not really. RE6 introduces new characters and plot elements, and its multiple campaigns offer different perspectives on the events unfolding. While knowing the outcome of RE5 provides a backdrop for Chris’s character arc, it doesn’t significantly spoil the overall experience of RE6.

Are all Resident Evil games linked?

Generally, yes. Each main Resident Evil game contributes to the overarching storyline. While each game often features a self-contained plot, they all build upon the established lore, characters, and organizations, creating a cohesive, if complex, narrative universe.

Is RE6 better than RE5?

This is subjective and depends on individual preferences. RE5 is often praised for its tighter gameplay and focus on co-op action. RE6, while ambitious in scale, has been criticized for its convoluted story and over-the-top action sequences.

Can I skip Resident Evil 5 and go straight to Resident Evil 6?

Yes, you can. You’ll still be able to understand the basic plot of RE6. However, you’ll miss out on important character development (especially for Chris) and a deeper understanding of the global bioterrorism landscape that sets the stage for RE6.

Does Leon appear in Resident Evil 5?

No, Leon S. Kennedy does not appear in Resident Evil 5. He is a prominent character in Resident Evil 2, 4, 6, and other titles, but not in RE5.

Is Chris Redfield in Resident Evil 6?

Yes, Chris Redfield is a major character in Resident Evil 6, and one of the four playable protagonists. His campaign deals heavily with the psychological impact of the events in RE5.

How old is Leon in Resident Evil 6?

Leon S. Kennedy is 36 years old during the events of Resident Evil 6.

Is Ada Wong in Resident Evil 5?

Ada Wong does not appear in the main campaign of Resident Evil 5.

What is the C-Virus in Resident Evil 6?

The C-Virus is a new strain of virus introduced in Resident Evil 6. It’s responsible for the outbreak in Lanshiang, China, and possesses unique properties that differentiate it from previous viruses like the T-Virus and G-Virus.

Who is Jake Muller in Resident Evil 6?

Jake Muller is one of the protagonists in Resident Evil 6, and the son of Albert Wesker. His unique blood possesses antibodies that could be used to develop a vaccine against the C-Virus.

Is Resident Evil 7 connected to Resident Evil 5 and 6?

Yes, Resident Evil 7 is connected to the wider Resident Evil universe, including RE5 and RE6, albeit more subtly. While the game features a largely self-contained story, it does include references to Umbrella Corporation and the involvement of Chris Redfield, tying it to the established lore.

What race is Sheva Alomar from Resident Evil 5?

Sheva Alomar is a native African operative of the Bioterrorism Security Assessment Alliance (BSAA).

Does Albert Wesker appear in Resident Evil 6?

Albert Wesker is deceased by the time of Resident Evil 6, having been killed at the end of Resident Evil 5. However, his legacy and the repercussions of his actions are felt throughout RE6, particularly through his son, Jake Muller.

Where Can I Learn More About the Connections Between Resident Evil Games?

For deeper dives into game design, narrative structure, and the educational potential within games like Resident Evil, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. Exploring the academic perspective can enhance your appreciation of the series’ intricate design and world-building.

Final Thoughts: A Rich Tapestry of Bioterror

While Resident Evil 5 and 6 have their detractors, they remain crucial installments in the series’ timeline. Understanding the connections between them, and the broader Resident Evil universe, enriches the overall experience and provides a deeper appreciation for the ongoing battle against bioterror. Whether you play them in order or not, both games offer a compelling, if sometimes flawed, glimpse into a world constantly threatened by the horrors of viral outbreaks.