Discover the Legend of Resident Evil: A Guide to Playing in Chronological and Release Order
Since its debut in 1996, the Resident Evil franchise has established itself as the ultimate pioneer of survival horror, renowned for its consistent excellence, innovative gameplay, and enduring popularity. Created by Capcom, this universe has expanded far beyond its initial games, encompassing over two dozen console titles, six movies, multiple Netflix series, novels, comics, and even stage productions. Its rich lore and compelling gameplay make Resident Evil a must-explore franchise for horror fans and gamers alike.
Given the vast amount of content, starting your journey through Resident Evil can be both exciting and overwhelming. To help newcomers and seasoned fans alike, this guide provides two streamlined pathways: one for experiencing the narrative in chronological order, and another for playing the games as they were originally released. Whether you want to follow the story’s timeline or explore the series in the order it came out, we’ve got you covered.
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How Many Resident Evil Games Are There?
The core Resident Evil series comprises 10 main titles: Resident Evil 0 through 7, along with Village and Code: Veronica. However, the series’ total game count—including spin-offs, remakes, and remasters—approaches 30. When you include mobile games, pachinko machines, and other non-traditional formats, the number rises close to 60 titles.
Which Resident Evil Game Should You Start With?
If you’re new to the series, we recommend beginning with Resident Evil 4 Remake. It’s the most visually stunning and technically refined entry to date, blending action and horror in a way that’s accessible for newcomers and nostalgic for veterans. Its self-contained story allows players to jump in without prior knowledge of the series.
For fans of first-person horror, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is an excellent starting point. It introduces Ethan Winters, the new protagonist, and uses immersive first-person gameplay to heighten the sense of dread. Both games serve as fantastic entry points depending on your preferred style of horror.
How to Play the Resident Evil Series in Chronological Order
This guide focuses on 12 key titles—covering all 10 main entries and the two Revelations spin-offs. While the series has many other titles, spin-offs, and non-canonical games, these are the most essential for understanding the main narrative arc and enjoying the series’ progression.
Note that some games—such as mobile apps, light gun shooters, and obscure spin-offs—are excluded here for accessibility reasons. This list offers a straightforward pathway through the story, with brief spoilers focused on plot points and character introductions for those new to the series.
1. Resident Evil 0
Set just before the original Resident Evil, Resident Evil 0 explores the events leading up to the mansion incident. You follow S.T.A.R.S. medic Rebecca Chambers and ex-marine Billy Coen as they investigate a train full of zombies in the Arklay Mountains. The game uncovers crucial details about the origins of the T-Virus and the Umbrella Corporation’s sinister activities, setting the stage for the series’ overarching story. Rebecca later appears as a supporting character in the first game.
2. Resident Evil (Remake)
The original Resident Evil debuted on PlayStation in 1996, but the 2002 remake (and its HD remaster) modernizes the experience with improved gameplay and expanded story elements. Playing as either Chris Redfield or Jill Valentine, you investigate the mysterious murders in Raccoon City’s Spencer Mansion, confronting zombies and revealing the dark secrets behind Umbrella’s experiments.
3. Resident Evil 2
Set two months after the first game, Resident Evil 2 introduces new protagonists: rookie cop Leon Kennedy and college student Claire Redfield. Each has unique campaigns that intertwine, revealing more about the G-virus and Umbrella’s illegal activities. The game also features iconic characters like Ada Wong and the terrifying Tyrant. Fans can enjoy the 2019 remake, which offers modernized graphics and gameplay.
4. Resident Evil 3
Although the timeline is complex, it’s recommended to play Resident Evil 3 after Resident Evil 2. The story follows Jill Valentine as she escapes a zombie-infested Raccoon City during the outbreak. The game introduces the relentless Nemesis creature and expands on the city’s destruction. It can be played in two parts—before and after RE 2—without losing the narrative thread.
5. Resident Evil: Code – Veronica
Set shortly after RE 3, Code: Veronica follows Claire Redfield’s quest to find her brother Chris. Her journey leads her to an Umbrella facility in France, where she escapes captivity and uncovers more about the corporation’s sinister plans. Chris also returns as a playable character, confronting Albert Wesker, the series’ recurring villain.
6. Resident Evil 4
Resident Evil 4 is widely regarded as one of the best entries. It follows Leon Kennedy six years after Raccoon City as he searches for the U.S. president’s daughter in a rural Spanish village. Confronting cults and parasitic mind control, Leon’s story intertwines with past characters like Wesker and Ada Wong. The 2023 remake enhances the original experience with modern graphics and gameplay improvements.
7. Resident Evil Revelations
Set between RE 4 and 5, Revelations delves into the consequences of Umbrella’s bioweapons. Jill Valentine and Chris Redfield are now part of the BSAA, investigating a new virus variant in the Mediterranean. The game introduces fresh threats and deepens the series’ bioweapons lore.
8. Resident Evil 5
Taking place five years after RE 4, Resident Evil 5 follows Chris Redfield and Sheva Alomar in Africa as they combat a new bioweapon threat. The story explores Wesker’s latest schemes and features cooperative gameplay, allowing a second player to control Sheva, making it a more expansive experience.
9. Resident Evil Revelations 2
Set between RE 5 and 6, Revelations 2 follows Claire Redfield and Moira Burton through a four-episode story. The game shifts between past and present, revealing new enemies and the return of familiar faces, deepening the overall narrative of the series.
10. Resident Evil 6
Known for its complex and action-packed story, Resident Evil 6 weaves together four interconnected campaigns featuring Leon Kennedy, Chris Redfield, Ada Wong, and Jake Muller. The game focuses on stopping a global bioterrorist threat and features the series’ characteristic mix of horror and high-octane action.
11. Resident Evil 7: Biohazard
With Resident Evil 7, Capcom revitalized the franchise, returning to critical acclaim. It introduces Ethan Winters, a new protagonist, and shifts to a first-person perspective for immersive horror. Set in rural Louisiana, the game explores human experimentation, bioweapons, and features a return of familiar series themes, albeit with a fresh approach.
12. Resident Evil Village
Resident Evil Village continues Ethan Winters’s story three years after RE 7, blending horror and action. It expands on the series’ lore, revealing more about the origins of Umbrella and the series’ past characters. A post-credits scene hints at further developments, setting the stage for future entries.
Bonus Content: Shadows of Rose DLC
This DLC takes place 16 years after the events of Village, following Ethan’s daughter, Rose. As she seeks to rid herself of inherited powers, the story explores the franchise’s future, pushing the timeline into 2037. The 3-4 hour adventure offers new insights and expands the series’ universe.
Playing the Resident Evil Series by Release Date
- Resident Evil (1996)
- Resident Evil 2 (1998)
- Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (1999)
- Resident Evil: Code – Veronica (2000)
- Resident Evil 0 (2002)
- Resident Evil 4 (2005)
- Resident Evil 5 (2009)
- Resident Evil: Revelations (2012)
- Resident Evil 6 (2012)
- Resident Evil: Revelations 2 (2015)
- Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017)
- Resident Evil Village / Shadows of Rose (2021/2022)
*Mainline Resident Evil titles
The Future of Resident Evil: What’s Next?
Capcom continues to push the franchise forward with upcoming remakes and new titles. Rumors suggest that Resident Evil Zero and Code: Veronica will be next in line for remakes, revitalizing these classics for modern audiences. Most excitingly, Resident Evil 9, titled Requiem, is officially in development. Announced at Summer Games Fest, the game’s trailer hints at a return to Raccoon City and introduces new characters, including FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft, possibly connected to series lore. Scheduled for release on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox on February 27, 2026, this new chapter promises to expand the series’ universe further.
For those interested in exploring more about the series timeline, there are additional guides on Resident Evil movies, other game franchises, and classic RPGs. The series’ future looks bright with new stories and remakes on the horizon, ensuring fans will have plenty to look forward to in the coming years.
Emma Blake
Emma is a tech-savvy news editor who thrives on staying ahead of the curve. With a background in digital journalism and media studies, she brings readers up-to-the-minute updates on gaming, tech, and entertainment trends. Emma’s writing is sharp, insightful, and always backed by credible sources. Her mission is to keep the community informed and curious about the fast-changing digital world.
