Resident Evil 2: Leon or Claire? A Comprehensive Guide to Your First Playthrough
So, you’re ready to dive into the zombie-infested streets of Raccoon City in the Resident Evil 2 remake (or the original, the advice still holds water)? Excellent choice! But a crucial question looms: Leon or Claire, who should you choose first? The simple answer is: it depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Both campaigns offer compelling narratives and thrilling gameplay, but they cater to slightly different preferences. Don’t sweat it too much, though, both are essential for the full picture!
Diving Deeper: Leon vs. Claire – Which Story Suits You?
Choosing between Leon and Claire isn’t just about picking a character; it’s about shaping your initial experience within the world of Resident Evil 2. Let’s break down the core differences to help you decide.
Leon S. Kennedy: The Rookie Cop’s Baptism by Fire
Leon’s story often feels like the “intended” starting point for many players. He’s the fresh-faced rookie cop arriving in Raccoon City for his first day on the job, only to find it utterly overrun by zombies.
- Action-Oriented Gameplay: Leon’s campaign tends to lean slightly more towards action. He gains access to powerful weapons like the shotgun earlier and faces specific boss encounters designed to test your combat skills.
- Thriller and Mystery: His narrative has a stronger focus on the criminal investigation aspect. You’ll be delving deeper into the G-Virus conspiracy and uncovering the darker secrets of Umbrella Corporation.
- Iconic Character: Leon is arguably the face of the Resident Evil franchise. Starting with him allows you to experience his character arc from wide-eyed recruit to hardened survivor.
Claire Redfield: Searching for Family Amidst the Chaos
Claire arrives in Raccoon City searching for her brother, Chris, a member of the S.T.A.R.S. team. Her story focuses on family, protection, and a slightly different perspective on the unfolding tragedy.
- Survival Horror Emphasis: Claire’s campaign emphasizes resource management and strategic thinking. Her starting weapons may feel less immediately powerful, forcing you to rely on your wits and carefully conserved ammunition.
- Emotional Story: Claire’s connection to Sherry Birkin, the young daughter of Umbrella scientist William Birkin, adds a layer of emotional depth to the narrative. Her story tackles themes of familial bonds and protecting the innocent.
- Lore and Connections: Some suggest Claire’s route reveals slightly more lore about the overall Resident Evil universe and the Birkin family’s involvement in the disaster.
The Overlapping Narrative: One Apocalypse, Two Perspectives
Regardless of who you choose first, remember that both Leon and Claire are experiencing the same overarching events in Raccoon City. They cross paths, share resources (albeit sometimes indirectly), and contribute to uncovering the truth behind the outbreak. Playing both campaigns is crucial to get the complete picture.
Campaign Order: A > B or B > A?
The original Resident Evil 2 featured the “A” and “B” scenario system. Completing the game with one character unlocked the “B” scenario for the other, offering a slightly different (though often debated) perspective on events, with certain elements being exclusive to one scenario.
While the remake streamlines this system, it’s still important to understand the intended flow:
- Leon A/Claire A: Your first playthrough, experiencing the main narrative beats with your chosen character.
- Claire B/Leon B: Your second playthrough (unlocked after completing the first), offering a different starting point, altered puzzles, and variations in boss encounters.
Many players prefer starting with Leon A followed by Claire B, or Claire A followed by Leon B. The ‘B’ scenario is often a ‘true’ ending that adds a little extra context to the game. Don’t sweat the B scenario too much though, some fans feel they’re a tacked on extra.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions players have when deciding which Resident Evil 2 campaign to play first:
1. Does it really matter who I choose first?
Yes and no. Both campaigns are excellent, but they offer slightly different experiences. Leon leans towards action and mystery, while Claire emphasizes survival and emotion. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference. You’ll need to play both to get the full story.
2. Is one campaign easier than the other?
Generally, Claire’s campaign is considered slightly more challenging for beginners due to her initial weapon selection and emphasis on resource management. Leon’s more powerful weapons can make the early game feel more manageable for new players.
3. Which campaign has the better story?
Both stories are compelling in their own right. Leon’s story is centered on his journey into the Raccoon City Police Department (RPD) on his first day, and his encounters with Ada Wong. Claire is searching for her brother, Chris Redfield, and ultimately becoming a protector of Sherry Birkin.
4. Will I miss anything if I only play one campaign?
Absolutely. Each character encounters different characters, solves unique puzzles, and faces specific boss encounters. You’ll only get a complete understanding of the Raccoon City incident by playing both campaigns.
5. Should I play the “B” scenario after completing the “A” scenario?
Yes! The “B” scenario provides a different perspective on the events and adds crucial context to the overall narrative. It’s an essential part of the Resident Evil 2 experience.
6. Are there any major differences in the locations I’ll visit?
While you’ll explore many of the same locations, such as the RPD and the sewers, the order and the way you access them can differ between campaigns. Also, some sections are slightly changed.
7. Does the choice of character affect the ending?
Yes, the specific ending you see will depend on the character you’re playing and whether you’re playing the “A” or “B” scenario.
8. Are there any differences in the items I find?
Yes, each character has access to specific weapons and items that are unique to their campaign. For instance, Leon has the shotgun earlier, while Claire has a grenade launcher.
9. Will I see the same cutscenes in both campaigns?
While some cutscenes overlap, there are also many unique cutscenes that provide different perspectives on the events unfolding in Raccoon City. You’ll even get the same character acting different in what appears to be the same scenario.
10. What about the boss fights? Are they the same?
No, the boss encounters differ between Leon and Claire’s campaigns, offering unique challenges and requiring different strategies. For instance, Leon is more likely to encounter Mr. X, while Claire’s final boss is different.
11. Is Resident Evil 2 a good starting point for the series?
Yes, the Resident Evil 2 remake is an excellent entry point into the Resident Evil franchise. Its self-contained story, compelling characters, and engaging gameplay make it accessible to newcomers.
12. Does playing the original game first enhance the remake experience?
While not essential, playing the original Resident Evil 2 can deepen your appreciation for the remake. You’ll recognize familiar locations, characters, and plot points, and gain a better understanding of the changes and improvements made in the modern version.
13. What about the “Fourth Survivor” and “Tofu Survivor” modes?
These are bonus modes unlocked after completing the main campaigns. They offer challenging gameplay scenarios and are best enjoyed after you’ve familiarized yourself with the game’s mechanics and environments.
14. I’m more interested in the lore of Resident Evil. Which campaign should I play first?
While both campaigns contribute to the overall lore, some players suggest that Claire’s campaign might offer slightly more insights into the Birkin family and the origins of the G-Virus.
15. Where can I learn more about game design and storytelling in video games?
For those interested in understanding the intricacies of game design and narrative techniques, resources like the Games Learning Society can be incredibly valuable. GamesLearningSociety.org provides a wealth of information and research on how games can be used for education and learning.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the choice between Leon and Claire comes down to personal preference. Do you prefer a more action-oriented experience with a focus on criminal investigation? Choose Leon. Are you drawn to a story that emphasizes survival horror, emotional connections, and deeper lore? Choose Claire. Either way, get ready for a thrilling and unforgettable journey into the heart of the Raccoon City outbreak! Just remember to play both campaigns to experience the complete story. Good luck, and stay safe!