Should I Play Resident Evil 2 Before 3?
The Resident Evil series has been a staple of survival horror for decades, and the recent remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 3 have brought new life to these classic games. But for new players, the question remains: should I play Resident Evil 2 before 3? In this article, we’ll delve into the chronology of the series and provide a comprehensive guide to help you decide.
The Chronology Conundrum
Resident Evil 3 takes place before Resident Evil 2, but it’s not as simple as just playing the games in release order. The series’ complex storyline and timeline can be confusing, even for experienced fans. Here’s a brief overview to help clarify the situation:
| Game | Release Order | Story Order |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Evil | 1996 | 1996 |
| Resident Evil 2 | 1998 | 1997-1998 |
| Resident Evil 3 | 1999 | 1997-1998 |
As you can see, Resident Evil 3 takes place in September 1997, while Resident Evil 2 takes place in September 1998. This means that if you play the games in release order, you’ll play Resident Evil 2 before 3. However, from a story perspective, it’s more accurate to play 3 before 2.
Why Play Resident Evil 2 Before 3?
There are a few reasons why you might want to play Resident Evil 2 before 3:
- Better understanding of the series’ lore: Resident Evil 2 is often considered the most story-driven game in the series, and it provides a lot of background information on the events leading up to Resident Evil 3. By playing 2 first, you’ll have a better understanding of the Umbrella Corporation’s plans and the Raccoon City incident.
- Improved character development: Resident Evil 2’s characters are more developed than those in Resident Evil 3, and you’ll get to know Leon and Claire’s backstories and motivations before playing 3.
- Increased replay value: Playing Resident Evil 2 first can increase the replay value of the game, as you’ll have a better understanding of the characters and events in 3.
Why Play Resident Evil 3 Before 2?
On the other hand, there are some advantages to playing Resident Evil 3 before 2:
- New protagonist: Resident Evil 3 introduces a new protagonist, Jill Valentine, and her storyline is more standalone than that of Resident Evil 2.
- Faster gameplay: Resident Evil 3 has a faster-paced gameplay style than Resident Evil 2, which may appeal to players who prefer a more action-oriented experience.
- No need to worry about spoilers: If you play Resident Evil 3 first, you won’t have to worry about spoilers from Resident Evil 2, as you won’t have played 2 yet.
Ultimately, the Choice is Yours
Whether you play Resident Evil 2 before 3 or vice versa, both games offer a unique and thrilling experience. The Resident Evil series is all about survival horror, exploration, and storytelling, so both games will challenge you and keep you engaged. Here are some final points to consider:
- Both games have a lot of replay value: Even if you’ve played Resident Evil 2 before, playing it again with knowledge of the events in Resident Evil 3 can change your perspective and make the game feel fresh.
- The games are separate but connected: While Resident Evil 2 and 3 share a common setting and story elements, they can be played as standalone games.
- Your choice may affect your appreciation of the series: If you play the games in the wrong order, you may miss out on some of the nuances and connections between the two games. However, if you’re looking for a unique experience, playing them in the wrong order can also add to the game’s charm.
In conclusion, whether you play Resident Evil 2 before 3 or vice versa, the choice is ultimately yours. Both games offer a thrilling experience, and the Resident Evil series is all about exploration, survival, and storytelling. So go ahead, grab your gun and gear, and embark on an adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat.