Is it best to play Resident Evil in order?

Is it best to play Resident Evil in order?

Resident Evil, a iconic survival horror video game series, has been thrilling gamers for over two decades. With the latest installment, Village, released in 2021, the series has grown to include numerous games, each with its own unique story and characters. With so many options available, the question on everyone’s mind is: Should I play the Resident Evil games in order, or can I jump right in and enjoy the franchise regardless of the order in which I play them?

The Pros of Playing the Games in Order

1. Story Retrospective: Playing the Resident Evil games in order will provide a deeper understanding of the series’ overarching story. Each game builds upon the previous one, offering a richer narrative experience as you progress through the franchise.
2. Character Development: By experiencing the characters’ growth and evolution in the correct order, you’ll develop a deeper connection with them, enhancing your emotional investment in their stories.
3. Gameplay Evolution: You’ll witness the progression of gameplay mechanics, graphical advancements, and control system updates, making each new installment more engaging and exciting.
4. Connections between Games: Playing in order will reveal the relationships between games, including cameos, references, and hidden connections that might have flown under the radar without this context.

The Cons of Playing the Games in Order

1. Outdated Graphics: Games released earlier in the series may have outdated graphics and gameplay mechanics, potentially limiting the overall experience.
2. Repetition of Mechanics: Some critics argue that the series has stuck to a formulaic structure, leading to a sense of repetition in gameplay and mechanics.
3. Spoiler Alert: Spoiling the story of later games can diminish the excitement of playing them for the first time.

Breaking Tradition: Playing Out of Order

1. Story Accessibility: Jumping in with a later game allows new players to immerse themselves in the story and gameplay without being hamstrung by prior knowledge of the series.
2. Fresh Start: Players can experience the Resident Evil franchise without being weighed down by the burden of storytelling continuity.
3. Focus on Gameplay: Games released later in the series may have refined mechanics and more engaging gameplay, offering a more enjoyable experience right out of the gate.

The Verdict: Can You Play the Games Out of Order?

While playing the Resident Evil games in order is generally recommended for a more fulfilling experience, it is ultimately up to personal preference. If you’re concerned about spoilers or want to appreciate the series’ historical evolution, playing in order may be the best option.

However, if you’re new to the series and want to dive into a specific game without the added complexity of prior story knowledge, playing out of order can still be enjoyable. You can always replay previous games or explore the series’ lore through other means to appreciate the connections and historical context.

What Does the Future Hold for Resident Evil?

Capcom, the developer of Resident Evil, has repeatedly stressed their commitment to pushing the series forward, both narratively and mechanically. Future games will likely feature a mix of new mechanics and storytelling elements, cementing the franchise’s reputation for innovation and excitement.

As the series continues to grow and evolve, there is no one "right" way to experience the games. Whether you prefer the tried-and-true tradition of playing in order or the fresh start that playing out of order can provide, the Resident Evil franchise has something to offer.

Now it’s your turn! We want to hear your experience with the Resident Evil franchise. Have you played all the games in order or do you prefer the freshness of playing out of order? Share your story with us in the comments section below!