Can I Start with RE4?
The Resident Evil series has a vast and complex storyline, with multiple games, movies, and spin-offs. With so much content to navigate, it’s natural to wonder if you can start with Resident Evil 4 (RE4), one of the most popular games in the series. The answer is yes, you can start with RE4, but it’s essential to understand the context and how it fits into the overall Resident Evil universe.
Is RE4 a Good Starting Point?
Yes, RE4 is an excellent starting point for several reasons:
- Self-contained story: RE4 has a standalone storyline, making it easy to jump in without prior knowledge of the series.
- Action-packed gameplay: RE4 introduced the "over-the-shoulder" third-person shooter mechanic, which revolutionized the gaming industry.
- Iconic villain: The game features Umbrella Corporation, one of the most notorious villains in the series.
How Does RE4 Connect to the Rest of the Series?
While RE4 is self-contained, it does have connections to the rest of the series. Here’s a brief overview:
- Chronology: RE4 takes place in 2004, several years after the events of Resident Evil 2 (1998).
- Story connections: The game’s storyline explores the aftermath of the events in Resident Evil 2 and sets the stage for future games in the series.
- Characters: RE4 introduces new characters, such as Leon S. Kennedy and Ada Wong, while also featuring cameos from familiar faces like Chris Redfield and T-Veronica.
What if I Haven’t Played the Previous Games?
Don’t worry! RE4 is designed to be accessible to new players. The game’s storyline is written to be somewhat self-contained, allowing you to enjoy the game without prior knowledge of the series. However, if you’re interested in exploring the full context of the Resident Evil universe, it’s recommended to play the previous games or watch the movies to gain a deeper understanding of the characters and storylines.
Table: Resident Evil Timeline
| Game/Movie | Release Year | Story Connection to RE4 |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Evil 1 | 1996 | Prequel to the series |
| Resident Evil 2 | 1998 | Set in 1998, connected to RE4’s storyline |
| Resident Evil 3 | 1999 | Prequel to RE2 and RE4 |
| Resident Evil Code: Veronica | 2000 | Set in 1998, connected to RE2 and RE4 |
| Resident Evil 4 | 2005 | Set in 2004, continues the storyline of RE2 and RE3 |
Conclusion
Resident Evil 4 is an excellent starting point for new players, offering a self-contained storyline, action-packed gameplay, and iconic villains. While it’s connected to the rest of the series, the game is designed to be accessible to new players. If you’re interested in exploring the full context of the Resident Evil universe, playing the previous games or watching the movies can provide a deeper understanding of the characters and storylines. So, go ahead and start your Resident Evil journey with RE4!