Do I need to play Resident Evil 1-3 before 4?
The Resident Evil series has been thrilling gamers for decades, and with each new installment, the story becomes more complex and interconnected. If you’re new to the series or considering playing Resident Evil 4, you might be wondering if you need to play the previous games to fully understand and appreciate the story. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide insights into the Resident Evil series.
In a Nutshell: No, You Don’t Need to Play Resident Evil 1-3 Before 4
While the Resident Evil series is designed to be played in a specific order, you don’t necessarily need to play the first three games to enjoy Resident Evil 4. The game’s story is self-contained, and you can jump in without prior knowledge of the series.
Why You Don’t Need to Play the Previous Games
Here are a few reasons why you can skip the first three games and still enjoy Resident Evil 4:
- Each game has a standalone story: While the series is connected, each game has its own unique narrative that can be enjoyed independently.
- Minimal references to previous games: Resident Evil 4 contains only a few references to the previous games, which won’t affect your understanding of the story.
- New characters and settings: Resident Evil 4 introduces new characters and settings, making it easy to jump in without prior knowledge of the series.
What You’ll Miss Out On
If you choose to skip the first three games, you’ll miss out on some essential background information and character development. Here’s what you’ll be missing:
- The origins of the series: The first three games set the stage for the Resident Evil series, introducing key characters and plot points that are referenced throughout the series.
- Character development: The first three games provide insight into the characters’ personalities, motivations, and backstories, which are essential to understanding their actions in later games.
- Setting and atmosphere: The first three games establish the eerie atmosphere and setting that makes the Resident Evil series so beloved.
A Brief Overview of the Series
If you’re interested in playing the series in order, here’s a brief overview of the first three games:
- Resident Evil 1: The game that started it all, introducing the series’ iconic protagonist, Chris Redfield, and the sinister corporation, Umbrella.
- Resident Evil 2: Set two years after the first game, Resident Evil 2 follows Leon S. Kennedy as he investigates a zombie outbreak in Raccoon City.
- Resident Evil 3: Taking place in September 1998, Resident Evil 3 follows Jill Valentine as she tries to escape Raccoon City, which is being destroyed by a mysterious virus.
When to Play the Previous Games
If you’re interested in playing the series in order, here’s a suggested order:
- Resident Evil 0: A prequel to the first game, Resident Evil 0 sets the stage for the series.
- Resident Evil 1: The original game that started the series.
- Resident Evil 2: A classic game that introduced new characters and plot points.
- Resident Evil 3: The final game in the original trilogy, which sets the stage for the series’ future games.
- Resident Evil 4: The game that revolutionized the series, introducing new gameplay mechanics and a darker tone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while you don’t need to play the first three Resident Evil games to enjoy Resident Evil 4, playing them will provide a deeper understanding of the series’ characters, setting, and story. If you’re new to the series, you can start with Resident Evil 4 and still have a great time. However, if you’re interested in playing the series in order, we recommend starting with Resident Evil 0 and working your way up to Resident Evil 4.