Which Resident Evil Game You Should Play First?

Quick Overview

The essential Resident Evil games to play before Resident Evil Re:4 are the Resident Evil 2 and 4 remakes, as they establish the necessary character development for Leon and Claire and directly inform the gameplay mechanics and story threads woven into Re:4.

Key Points: Resident Evil 2 remake is the perfect starting point for newcomers because it hones the survival horror foundation and provides essential building blocks for character, story, and gameplay heading into Re:4. Playing RE2 and RE4 remakes back-to-back gives a clear understanding of how Claire plays and how Leon plays in Re:4, as their distinct play styles are established in both prior games. Resident Evil 4 continues Leon's development from rookie cop to government agent, shifting the play style from RE2's methodical survival to a "ballet of tense action and operatic violence." Resident Evil 7 Biohazard serves as a reboot, emphasizing environmental dread over combat and offering a more grounded narrative, leaving fingerprints on Re:4 via the first-person perspective option. Resident Evil Village functions as a "horror theme park" or "Disneyland," encapsulating everything the series offers, blending horror, action, and over-the-top story elements. Resident Evil 3 is considered just "okay" and unnecessary for newcomers because its core pillar, Nemesis, is executed better in other games like RE2 remake and RE7. Resident Evil 1 remake from 2002 is recommended for purists seeking the best version of classic survival horror, noting that the PC GOG version makes Jill Valentine's 'easy mode' inventory advantage even greater by removing ink ribbon requirements for saving.

Context: The video addresses the frequent question from fans, especially with the upcoming release of Resident Evil Re:4, regarding which previous titles new or returning players should experience first. The speaker, Kurt, focuses on narrowing down the essential games from the 30-year-old franchise that provide the most relevant context—story threads, character arcs, and gameplay foundations—necessary for fully appreciating Re:4.