Should I play Resident Evil in chronological order or release order?

Should I Play Resident Evil in Chronological Order or Release Order?

The Resident Evil series has been a staple of the gaming industry for decades, with a vast array of games, spin-offs, and reboots. With so many options, it can be overwhelming for new players to decide where to start. In this article, we’ll explore the question of whether it’s better to play the Resident Evil games in chronological order or release order.

Release Order vs. Chronological Order: What’s the Difference?

Before we dive into the pros and cons of each approach, let’s define what we mean by release order and chronological order.

• Release Order: Playing the games in the order they were released, which is the order in which they were initially introduced to the public.
• Chronological Order: Playing the games in the order of their story timeline, which is the order in which the events of the game take place.

Pros and Cons of Playing in Release Order

Playing the Resident Evil games in release order has its advantages and disadvantages.

Pros:

• Historical Significance: Playing the games in release order allows you to experience the series’ evolution and growth over time. You’ll see how the games’ mechanics, storytelling, and graphics improved with each new installment.
• Nostalgia: If you’re a fan of the series, playing the games in release order can be a nostalgic experience, allowing you to relive memories of your first playthroughs.
• Authenticity: Playing the games in release order maintains the original order in which the story was intended to be told.

Cons:

• Story Discontinuity: Playing the games in release order can lead to story discontinuity, as the games were not designed to be played in this order. You may encounter plot holes, character inconsistencies, and confusing storylines.
• Outdated Mechanics: The older games may have outdated mechanics, graphics, and sound design, which can make them feel dated and less enjoyable compared to newer titles.

Pros and Cons of Playing in Chronological Order

Playing the Resident Evil games in chronological order has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Pros:

• Linear Storytelling: Playing the games in chronological order allows you to experience the story in a linear fashion, with each game building upon the previous one.
• Improved Story Understanding: You’ll gain a better understanding of the overall story and characters, as the events of each game are presented in a cohesive and logical order.
• Enhanced Emotional Impact: The games’ emotional impact and tension can be amplified when played in chronological order, as you’ll be experiencing the story in the intended order.

Cons:

• Spoilers: Playing the games in chronological order can spoil the surprise and tension of the earlier games, as you’ll already know the outcome of the story.
• Limited Gameplay Options: Some games may have limited gameplay options or mechanics that are not present in later titles, which can make them feel less engaging.

Which Approach is Best?

Ultimately, the choice between playing the Resident Evil games in release order or chronological order depends on your personal preferences and gaming experience.

• New Players: If you’re new to the series, playing the games in chronological order is recommended, as it will provide the best story experience and allow you to understand the overall narrative.
• Veteran Players: If you’re a veteran player who has already played the series, playing the games in release order can be a nostalgic and historical experience, allowing you to appreciate the series’ evolution and growth.

Table: Resident Evil Games in Release Order and Chronological Order

Conclusion

Playing the Resident Evil games in release order or chronological order both have their advantages and disadvantages. While playing in release order allows you to experience the series’ evolution and growth, playing in chronological order provides a linear storytelling experience and improved understanding of the overall narrative. Ultimately, the choice between the two approaches depends on your personal preferences and gaming experience. Whether you’re a new player or a veteran gamer, the Resident Evil series has something to offer, and playing the games in either order can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.