Which is scarier RE2 or RE7? A comparison of two horror classics
Resident Evil 2 (RE2) and Resident Evil 7 (RE7) are two horror classics that have left a lasting impression on fans of the survival horror genre. The fear factor is a crucial aspect of a good horror game, and both games deliver in spades. But the question remains, which one is scarier?
First-person horror is not always better
For some, the shift from a third-person perspective to a first-person perspective makes RE7 scarier than RE2. The feeling of being right inside the action, with no buffer or cutscene to break the tension, heightens the sense of fear. Jack Baker, the main antagonist of RE7, is a masterclass example of this. His sudden appearance, relentless pursuit, and unpredictable actions create a sense of dread that is amplified by the first-person perspective.
Fear of the unknown is a powerful psychological tool
RE2 excels at creating a sense of unease from the unknown. The mysterious outbreak at Raccoon City, the sinister conspiracy involving Umbrella Corporation, and the undead hordes that roam the city create a sense of uncertainty. What is happening? Where do I go? What do I need to do to survive? This uncertainty festers and grows, making each new discovery a double-edged sword – it might clear up some questions, but it also highlights the depth of the horror.
Repetitive encounters make horror less frightening
RE7 tackles the repetitive encounter problem differently. The game’s world is massive, with multiple areas to explore, different characters to interact with, and hidden secrets to uncover. While each area may have its own threats, the encounters are more varied than the simple zombie hordes that fill RE2. This ensures that the horror is more consistent and oppressive throughout the game.
RE7’s environments are designed for terror
RE7’s use of atmospheric sound design and jump scares creates a sense of unease in its environments. The creaking, groaning, and sounds of distant screams make players feel like they are being watched. Dark, claustrophobic, and seemingly abandoned areas like Eveline’s plantation house or Delphin’s mansion create tension by restricting player movement and controlling lighting. The contrast between eerie silence and sudden loud events further heightens the sense of fear.
| Game | Environment | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| RE2 | Raccoon City streets and sewers | Dark, foreboding, and oppressive |
| RE7 | Various environments (plantation, mansion, etc.) | Ominous, creepy, and claustrophobic |
RE2 relies on its story to maintain horror
RE2’s horror depends more on its story and setting to maintain fear. The Raccoon City outbreak, the Umbrella Conspiracy, and the mysterious motivations behind Clad’s actions create a sense of drama that fuels the horror. While each zombie encounter is frightening in itself, it’s the overall plot that keeps players invested.
| Game | Story | Horror mechanic |
|---|---|---|
| RE2 | Mysterious outbreak and conspiracies | Zombie encounters and plot surprises |
| RE7 | Isolated character struggles and family drama | Monster encounters and atmospheric tension |
In conclusion, while both games have their fearsome moments, RE7 relies more on its atmospheric tension and eerie environments to create a sense of horror, while RE2 relies on its intricate plot and dramatic storytelling. Bolded text highlights RE7’s edge in terms of environmental scare factor, while RE2 still packs a punch with its relentless storytelling.
Which is scarier to you? Let us know in the comments below!