Resident Evilis one of the most iconic and influential video game franchises of all time, with a legacy spanning over 25 years and multiple console generations. The series revolutionized the survival horror genre, introducing players toa new type of horror experiencethat blended tense exploration, challenging puzzles, and heart-pumping action.
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Each main entry in the series brought new innovations and features, from the iconic mansion setting of the originalResident Evilto the over-the-shoulder perspective and intense set-pieces ofResident Evil 4. These features not only defined the series but also influenced the gaming industry as a whole, inspiring countless imitators and shaping the way fans approach horror and action games.
10Resident Evil (1996)
The firstResident Evilintroduced players to a new type of horror experience, mixing survival and exploration with tricky puzzles and a tense atmosphere. It lacked auto-aim, the characters' heath bar was short, and players were required to save up on ink ribbons to be able to save.
The game’s best features include its haunting soundtrack, iconic monsters like the zombie dogsand the Tyrant, and the classic mansion setting that has become a hallmark of the series. The game was highly praised for its innovative gameplay and atmosphere, and despite the fact that it’s considered the most difficult game in the series to complete, 1996’sResident Evilwill always be a fan favorite.
9Resident Evil 2 (1998)
Resident Evil 2is often considered the best game in the series, expanding on the original with a larger scope, multiple playable characters, and a branching story that changes depending on the player’s choices.
The game’s best features include its innovative “zapping” system, which allows players to see different perspectives of the same story, as well asthe iconic characters Leon S. Kennedyand Claire Redfield. Many fans consider that the 1998 game is actually better than its 2019 remake since the story provides a better experience, and it teases players with the unknown dangers that are waiting for them.
8Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (1999)
Resident Evil 3introduced a new antagonist in the form of Nemesis, a relentless enemy that could appear at any moment, and added more action to the series with new weapons and dodge mechanics.Nemesis is a nightmarish monsterthat surprises the player with its huge, scary figure and threatening aura.
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The game’s best features include its fast-paced gameplay, memorable set-pieces, and the return of fan-favorite character Jill Valentine. While the game was generally well-received by fans, some criticized its shorter length and lack of exploration compared to previous entries. An explanation for these cons might be that initially,RE3was supposed to be an expansion toRE2, but Capcom decided to rush the process and create a new title in order to have an up-to-date game when they open on the stock market.
7Resident Evil Code: Veronica (2000)
Code: Veronicapushed the series to new heights with improved graphics and expanded lore, introducing new protagonists and villains to theResident Eviluniverse. One thing that fans loved the most inCode: Veronicais the knife since it’s the most capable blade in the series, and it can be the sole, perfect weapon for players to complete the game.
Its best features include its intricate storyline, challenging puzzles, and the fact that the player can actually wreck their gameplay if they miss a few steps since the game won’t allow them to go back and fix their mistakes. The game waswell-received by critics and fans, though some felt that the series was starting to lose its horror roots in favor of more action-oriented gameplay.
6Resident Evil 4 (2005)
Resident Evil 4departed from the previous games in many ways, introducing an over-the-shoulder perspective, more action-focused gameplay, and a larger emphasis on story and character development. It wasn’t as scary as the previous games in the series, but its lore is complex, and the creepy atmosphere is the one thattruly captivates the players.
The game’s best features include the new camera angle that causes players to feel claustrophobic, the multitude of monsters that create an overwhelming feeling, and the constant feeling of urgency, not letting players breathe calmly for one second. The game was highly praised by critics and fans, with many calling it a masterpiece and one of the best games of all time.
5Resident Evil 5 (2009)
Resident Evil 5improved upon the co-op mechanicsintroduced inResident Evil 4and added more action elements, while still maintaining a horror atmosphere and introducing new enemies and settings.
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The game’s best features include its intense co-op gameplay, the option to customize how the AI partner acts, and the introduction of new enemies like the Majini. While the game was well-received by fans, some criticized its emphasis on action over horror and the lack of innovation compared to previous entries.
4Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017)
Resident Evil 7marked a return to the series' horror roots, introducing players to a new first-person perspective, a creepy southern gory setting, and a more grounded storyline that focused on a single protagonist.
The game’s best features include its immersive and terrifying atmosphere, challenging puzzles, and the introduction of new enemies likethe Molded and the Baker family. Another new element is Ethan, the protagonist who, unlike any other character in the series, isextremely brutalized and abused. The game was highly praised by fans and critics for its return to horror and innovative gameplay, with many calling it a return to form for the series.
3Resident Evil 2 Remake (2019)
The 2019 remake ofResident Evil 2brought the classic survival horror game to a new generation of gamers, with updated graphics, gameplay mechanics, and storytelling. The game has great replayability value and is highly praised for its improved controls and graphics that make it feel fresh and modern.
RE2’s best features include its faithful recreation of the original game’s iconic locations and puzzles, the introduction of new gameplay elements likeMr. X’s persistent pursuitof the player, and later the impressive DualSense controller implementation. Many fans called the game one of the best remakes in video game history.
2Resident Evil 3 Remake (2020)
The 2020 remake ofResident Evil 3updated the original game with improved graphics, reviewed mechanics, and a more action-oriented focus than the original. The players loved how unpredictable the game is while criticizing the number of cutscenes that took playable parts of the game away.
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Theremake’s best featuresinclude its intense action, the even more terrifying Nemesis as a persistent antagonist, and the expanded backstory and characterization of Jill Valentine. While some fans felt that the game was still too short and not worth the full price, it was generally well-received by critics and players.
1Resident Evil Village (2021)
Resident Evil Villagefollows Ethan Winters as he explores a mysterious village in Eastern Europe, presumably in Romania, filled with terrifying creatures and dark secrets, trying to save his wife and daughter. The game doesn’t only introduce a wide variety of enemies, but it also explores themes such as sacrifice and desperation.
The game’s best features include its stunning graphics and atmosphere, the introduction of new enemies like the lycans andthe mysterious Lady Dimitrescu, and the return of series favorites like Chris Redfield. The game has been highly praised by fans and critics alike for its immersive horror experience and inventive gameplay mechanics, cementing the series' legacy as one of the most innovative and influential franchises in gaming history.
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